During Cold Weather - Mitsubishi MIRAGE Service Manual

WARNING
 If any of the caps has a loose fit, replace
the battery.

During cold weather

The battery is weaker in cold temperatures.
This has to do with its chemical and physical
properties and is why a very cold battery,
especially one with a low charge, will have a
hard time starting your vehicle.
It is recommended that you have your battery
and charging system checked by an autho-
rized Mitsubishi Motors dealer or a repair
facility of your choice before the start of cold
weather. If necessary, have it charged. This
will provide more reliable starting, and longer
battery life.
Disconnection and connection
To disconnect the battery cable, stop the
engine. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal
first, then the positive (+) terminal. To recon-
nect the battery, first connect the positive (+)
terminal and then the negative (-) terminal,
before starting the vehicle.
NOTE
 Open the terminal cover (A) before discon-
necting or connecting the positive (+) termi-
nal of the battery.
 Loosen the nut (B) and then disconnect the
battery cable from the positive (+) terminal.
N00901600060
WARNING
 Never disconnect the battery while the
engine is running, or you could damage
the vehicle's electrical parts.
 Never short-circuit the battery. This could
cause it to overheat and be damaged.
N00901701130
 Keep sparks, cigarettes, and flames away
from the battery because the battery could
explode.
 Electrolyte (battery acid) is made of corro-
sive diluted sulfuric acid. If it spills on
nearby parts, it can crack, stain, or dis-
color them. And if it gets on your skin or
in your eyes, it can cause burns or blind-
ness. Please observe the following han-
dling instructions:
I n f o r ma t i o n P r o v i d e d b y :
WARNING
• If electrolyte gets on plastic parts or
other nearby parts, wipe it off with a soft
cloth or chamois soaked in a solution of
water and neutral detergent then imme-
diately rinse the affected parts with
plenty of water.
• If electrolyte gets on your hands or
clothes, rinse thoroughly with water. If
electrolyte gets in your eyes, flush them
with water immediately and get immedi-
ate medical attention.
 Open doors and windows in any closed
space where you may be charging or
working with the battery.
 Always wear protective clothing and gog-
gles when working with the battery, or
have a skilled automobile technician do it.
 If you are quick-charging your battery,
first disconnect the battery cables.
 In order to prevent a short-circuit, be sure
to disconnect the negative (-) terminal
first, and reconnect it last.
 Battery posts, terminals and related acces-
sories contain lead and lead compounds.
Wash hands after handling.
NOTE
 Check each battery terminal for corrosion.
You can stop more corrosion by washing
with a solution of baking soda and water.
Grease the posts and clamps after cleaning or
tightening them.
Vehicle care and maintenance
Battery
9
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