The first test of a battery is a visual inspection. There are certain things a technician should look for when inspecting a battery. Some things to look for include the quality of the connection from the battery to the cables.

Cracks or other leaks can cause acid spills. Missing battery hold down hardware can cause damage to the plates inside the battery from it being allowed to hop up and down from bumps in the road.

Dirt buildup on the top of the battery can actually cause a parasitic drain between the posts. Be sure to clean the top of the battery with battery cleaner. Missing factory heat shielding (insulators) will shorten the battery's life. As a guideline, every 15°F/8°C rise in temperature above 77°F/ 25°C will cut the battery life in half. A battery that might last for 10 years at 77°F/25°C will only be good for five years if operated at 95°F/33°C.

Likewise, the same battery might only withstand a little more than one year at a temperature of 107°F/42°C. Have you ever seen a battery located directly behind or very near a radiator? Be sure to clean and reinstall all battery heat shields when replacing a battery. True, some batteries may have case designs that help protect it, but even still, the factory shielding should be left in place. Check to make sure it is the right battery for the vehicle. Does it fit the tray? Does it interfere with hoses or wiring? Does the CCA rating at least meet the minimu...