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:

    Lighting control
    A. Off B. Parking lamps, instrument panel lamps, license plate lamps and tail lamps C. Headlamps High Beams • Push the lever toward the instrument panel to switch on the high beams. • Pull the lever toward you to switch of the high beams. Headlamp Flashe ...

    Fittings - Vapor Tube
    Disconnect 1. WARNING: The evaporative emission system contains fuel vapor and condensed fuel vapor. Although not present in large quantities, it still presents the danger of explosion or fire. Disconnect the battery ground cable from the battery to minimiz ...

    Fuel quality
    Note: Use of any fuel other than those recommended may cause powertrain damage and a loss of vehicle performance; repairs may not be covered under warranty. Choosing the Right Fuel Use only unleaded fuel or unleaded fuel blended with a maximum of 15% ethanol. ...