Maintenance

For Better Battery Care

~2min read
  • Keep the battery securely mounted.
  • Keep the top of the battery clean and dry.
  • Keep the terminals and connections clean, tight and coated with petroleum jelly or terminal grease.
  • Immediately flush spilled electrolyte from the battery with a solution of water and baking soda.
  • If the vehicle will not be used for an extended period, disconnect the battery cables.

NOTICE

The battery installed in the vehicle is basically a maintenance-free type. If your vehicle is equipped with a battery marked with LOWER and UPPER levels on the side, you can check the electrolyte level. The electrolyte level should be between LOWER and UPPER. If the electrolyte level is low, add distilled (demineralized) water only. Never add sulfuric acid or other electrolyte. When filling, be careful not to splash the battery and surrounding components. Do not overfill the battery. This may cause corrosion of other parts. Afterward, make sure the cell caps are tightened. Contact a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.

WARNING

Battery Hazards

Always read the following instructions carefully when handling the battery.

Keep lit cigarettes and all other open flames or sparks away from the battery.

Hydrogen, a highly flammable gas, is always present in batteries and can explode if ignited.

Keep batteries out of reach of children, because batteries contain highly corrosive SULFURIC ACID. Do not allow battery acid to contact skin, eyes, clothing, or painted surfaces.

If any electrolyte gets into your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes and get immediate medical attention. If electrolyte contacts your skin, thoroughly wash the contacted area. If you feel pain or burning, seek medical attention immediately.

Wear protective eye wear when charging or working near the battery. Always provide ventilation when working in an enclosed area.

Improperly disposed of battery may be harmful to the environment and human health. Dispose of the battery in accordance with your local laws or regulations.

The battery contains lead. Do not discard it after use. Contact a professional workshop. Kia recommends visiting an authorized Kia dealer/service partner.

  • When lifting a battery with a plastic case, excessive pressure on the case may cause battery acid to leak, which may result in injury. Lift using the battery carrier or by hand at opposite corners.
  • Never attempt to charge the battery while the battery cables are connected.
  • The ignition system operates at high voltage. Never touch these components with the engine running or the ignition switched on.

Failure to observe the above warnings may result in serious personal injury or death.

CAUTION

  • When you do not use the vehicle for a long time in a low-temperature area, disconnect the battery and store it indoors.
  • Always fully charge the battery to prevent damage to the battery case in low-temperature areas.
  • If you connect unauthorized electronic devices to the battery, the battery may discharge. Never use unauthorized devices.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Picanto JA quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.