Mazda CX-8 Quick Manual page 498

Maintenance and Care
Owner Maintenance
▼ Inspecting Electrolyte Level
A low level of electrolyte fluid will cause
the battery to discharge quickly.
Upper level
Lower level
Inspect the electrolyte level at least once a
week. If it is low, remove the caps and add
enough distilled water to bring the level
between the upper and lower level
(illustration).
Do not overfill.
Examine the specific gravity of the
electrolyte with a hydrometer, especially
during cold weather. If it is low, recharge
the battery.
▼ Battery Recharging
NOTE
Before performing maintenance or

recharging the battery, turn off all
accessories and stop the engine.
To disconnect the battery, remove the

negative lead first. Install it last when
connecting the battery.
Be sure to remove the caps before

recharging the battery.
Do not quick-charge the battery.

If the battery quickly discharges

because, for example, the lights were
6-28
left on too long with the engine off,
slow-charge it as required by battery
size and charger capacity.
If the battery gradually discharges

because of high electric load while the
vehicle is being used, recharge it as
required by battery size and charger
capacity.
▼ Battery Replacement
Contact an expert repairer, we recommend
an Authorised Mazda Repairer for a
battery replacement purchase.