Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Battery (Diagnosis and Testing)

Special Tool(s)

Micro 490 Digital Battery Analyzer 162-00004

Inspection and Verification

1. Verify the customer concern by operating the system.

2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.

Visual Inspection Chart

Mechanical Electrical

  • Battery

  • Battery mounting
  • Battery cables
  • Battery posts

3. If an obvious cause for a concern is found, correct the cause before proceeding to the next step.

4. If the fault is not visually evident, proceed to the pinpoint test.

Pinpoint Tests

PINPOINT TEST A: BATTERY CONDITION TEST

Test Step Result / Action to Take
A1 TEST BATTERY CONDITION Yes

Does the meter read, GOOD BATTERY? RETURN the battery to service. REFER to Section.

Does the meter read, GOODRECHARGE? CHARGE the battery and RETURN to service.

REFER to Section.

Does the meter read, CHARGE & RETEST? Fully CHARGE the battery and RETEST

No

Does the meter read, REPLACE BATTERY? INSTALL a new battery.

Does the meter read, BAD CELLREPLACE? INSTALL a new battery.
NOTE: No battery with a red test-eye should be replaced. The red eye only means the battery is discharged, not necessarily defective. NOTE: Failure to fully charge the battery before retesting may cause false readings.
  • Verify the battery condition using the Battery Analyzer.
  • Is the battery OK?
    Battery and Cables
    Vehicles are equipped with a 12 volt maintenance-free battery that contains a built-in hydrometer. The hydrometer eye indication is as follows: A green dot means the battery is OK. A yel ...

    Battery Disconnect
    WARNING: Batteries normally produce explosive gases which can cause personal injury. Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks or lighted substances to come near the battery, always shield you ...

    Other materials:

    Flywheel Ring Gear
    Removal 1. Remove the flywheel. 2. WARNING: This procedure should be carried out only by a correctly equipped and experienced acetylene torch operator. Tongs must be used or asbestos gloves worn when handling the heated flywheel ring gear. Failure to f ...

    Analysis of Vibration
    WARNING: A vehicle equipped with a Traction-Lok differential will always have both wheels driving. If only one wheel is raised off the floor and the rear axle is driven by the engine, the wheel on the floor could drive the vehicle off the stand or jack. Be s ...

    Assembly
    1. Install the valve stem seals. 2. Install the valves and the valve springs. 3. CAUTION: Make sure the tool is seated correctly on the valve spring. Apply a small amount of air at a time. This will prevent the tool from shifting and causing damage to the ...