How to Check and Refill the Battery Electrolyte in a Nissan Maxima

The Nissan Maxima is a popular vehicle for the person looking for a comfortable, roomy performance-driven car. Because even the best of cars need routine maintenance, you should learn how to performance basic monthly maintenance for your Maxima. One maintenance task that you can complete easily and with no tools is checking and refilling the battery electrolyte fluid.

Instructions

1. Park your Nissan Maxima. Turn the engine off and open the hood.

2. Locate the battery and remove each of the six cell plugs. Check the fluid level in each cell. Your Nissan Maxima battery will have lines marked "MIN" and "MAX" so you can easily see what the minimum and maximum fluid levels should be.

3. Use distilled water to fill each cell with that has too little fluid in it. Watch carefully as you fill the cell so you don't exceed the maximum fluid levels.

4. Replace the cell plugs and tighten them.

Tips & Warnings

• Though you should check your Nissan Maxima's battery electrolyte fluids at least once a month, check more frequently during hot summer months.

• If you're checking and refilling your battery's electrolyte fluid during freezing temperatures, drive your car several miles so the fluid can mix with the distilled water to prevent your battery from freezing.

• Don't use regular drinking water because the chemicals in it can ruin your car's battery.

• Batteries contain sulfuric acid, so use caution while working around your car's battery. If you spill sulfuric acid on your skin, wash it off immediately with cold water and seek medical attention. Wear gloves and eye protection while you check and fill the fluid.