Q: What are the proper battery maintenance procedures to ensure reliable starts in your Dodge Charger?
A: Battery maintenance is vital for vehicle reliability. Always turn off the engine and disconnect the negative battery cable before servicing. Avoid sparks, smoking, or open flames near the battery due to its flammable hydrogen gas emission. Handle the corrosive battery electrolyte carefully to avoid contact with eyes, skin, or clothing. Wear safety glasses, gloves, and old clothes when working near the battery. Check the battery for corrosion, loose connections, cracks, and damaged clamps or cables. Clean cable clamps, terminals, and the battery top with warm water and baking soda. Ensure the battery tray and clamp fasteners are in good condition, and reinstall the battery securely. Cover any corrosion damage on metal vehicle parts with zinc-based primer and paint. Use a slow-rate charger for restoring a deeply discharged battery or maintaining the charge in seldom driven vehicles. Avoid rapid boost charges that may damage batteries.