GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Battery Load Test

Load testing a battery with a high rate discharge (HRD) tester simulates the load placed on the battery during the engine start up. The battery must be at least 65 percent charged before commencing the test.

Important: Refer to operating instructions from the load tester being used, follow the manufacturer's instructions when using tester.

Caution: Refer to Battery Disconnect Caution in the Preface section.

  1. Disconnect the battery negative terminal.
  2. Disconnect the battery positive terminal.
  3. Connect the high rate discharge tester.
  4. Set the tester to correct battery size.
  5. Remove all battery filler caps.
  6. Carry out battery test in accordance with HRD manufacture's specifications, record battery voltage.
  7. If one or more cells are faulty it/they will have a large amounts of vapour. Replace the battery if any cells are faulty. Refer to Battery Replacement
  8. Replace the battery if the voltage is less than recommended by the HRD manufactures.
  9. Install the battery filler caps.
  10. Connect the battery positive terminal.
  11. Connect the battery negative terminal.