248 Checking and refilling levels
–Switch off the ignition and all electrical equipment.
–Only if fast-charging: both battery cables must be disconnected
(first the negative cable, then the positive cable).
–Connect the charger cables to the battery terminals, noting the
colour code (red = positive; black or brown = negative).
–Now connect the battery charger to the power socket and switch
on.
–After charging the battery: switch off the battery charger and
disconnect the power point cable.
–Finally disconnect the charger cables from the battery.
–If necessary, reconnect both battery cables to the battery (first
the positive cable, then the negative cable).
When charging with a low current (for instance with a small battery charger)
the battery does not normally have to be disconnected. However, both bat-
tery cables must be disconnected before fast-charging the battery with a
high current. However, always follow the instructions given by the manufac-
turer of the battery charger.
The fast-charging procedure for a battery is dangerous ⇒ in Important
safety warnings for handling a vehicle battery on page 247, as it requires a
special charger and the corresponding level of knowledge. We therefore rec-
ommend that this work should only be performed by a specialised work-
shop.
A flat battery can freeze at temperatures of around 0°C. The battery must be
defrosted before charging ⇒ . It is advisable to replace the battery if it has
frozen, because the ice can crack the battery casing and allow the battery
acid to escape.
The battery caps should not be opened while the battery is being charged.
WARNING
Never charge a frozen battery. Failure to comply could result in an explo-
sion.
