Just put my meter on the fuse box terminal next to the shock absorber mount and it read 12.2v.Not been used since Friday is that normal after allowing for any loads?
Thanks Al
2002xkr 74000

 

It is probably best to check at the battery terminals, although with the car off there should be very little difference.

A battery in good condition should be at least 12.5...but a load test is a more reliable measure.

 

Thanks WhiteXKR read it again across the battery terminals now 12.1v although the trunk lights are on.Only had the car about 3weeks always starts first time.Perhaps needs a good run.Can you charge from that fuse box contact+ and earth on shock mount?
Thanks Al

 

Yes, you can but you shouldn't try to jump start from another battery at that point.

 

If you charge it, it is safest for the electronics to charge it at both battery terminals directly with the ignition off. (Even safer with the battery disconnected from the vehicle, but you will need to reset the windows and on a UK car you will need to reset the radio code when you reconnect).

If it is starting fine, and all electrics in the car are working normally, just keep a watchful eye. Usually the first sign of battery trouble is when the windows do not automatically lower properly when openning the door and need to be reset (see the manual)...the electronics are very sensitive to low voltage in this car.

 

I thought the first sign of a low battery was ABS warnings during startup? That's what happened to me, anyway.

 

That is common also...I have seen both.

 

Thanks for your replies so far I have no warning lights showing will give it a run tomorrow and report back.
Al

 

Hi just reporting back.I tested the battery again this morning still 12.20v have since been a run and now reading 12.40v which is nearer the norm.I think I am right in saying that when a battery is reading 12v it is actually flat.So I will keep an eye on it.
Thank you for your guidance Al