Battery Buick LeSabre VIII

FASTENER TIGHTENING SPECIFICATIONS

Fastener Tightening Specifications

Scheme 1

For battery system schematics, refer to POWER DISTRIBUTION .

Scheme 2

DIAGNOSTIC STARTING POINT - ENGINE ELECTRICAL

Begin the system diagnosis with the DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK - ENGINE ELECTRICAL . The Diagnostic System Check will provide the following information

1. The identification of the control modules which command the system.
2. The ability of the control modules to communicate through the serial data circuit.
3. The identification of any stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and their status.

The use of the Diagnostic System Check will identify the correct procedure for diagnosing the system and where the procedure is located.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

1. 4 Lack of communication may be because of a partial malfunction of the class 2 serial data circuit or due to a total malfunction of the class 2 serial data circuit. The specified procedure will determine the particular condition.
2. 5 The symptom list in Symptoms will determine the correct diagnostic procedure to use.
3. 6 The presence of DTCs which begin with "U" indicate some other module is not communicating. The specified procedure will collect all the available information before you perform tests.

Scheme 3

Scheme 4

Scheme 5

Scheme 6

Scheme 7

Scheme 8

Scheme 9

Scheme 10

SCAN TOOL DATA DEFINITIONS

1. Battery Voltage The scan tool displays 0-20 Volts. The scan tool displays the voltage as received on the battery positive voltage circuit of the Module or the 72-08 battery voltage message from the DIM over class 2 lines.
2. GEN F-Terminal Signal The scan tool displays 0-100%. The scan tool displays 0-10% until the engine is started and the PCM receives a signal from the generator then OK is displayed.
3. GEN L-Terminal Signal Command The scan tool displays On/Off. The scan tool displays Off until the engine is running, then the PCM supplies then the percentage value varies depending on electrical loads.
4. Ignition 1 Signal The scan tool displays 0-20 Volts. The scan tool displays the voltage as received on the Ignition 1 circuit to the PCM.
5. Inadvertent Power Relay The scan tool displays On/Off. The scan tool displays On when the key is in the ACCY. or ON position.
6. Load Shed Lvl.1 R. Defog. The scan tool displays On/Off. The scan tool displays Off unless the RIM has entered level 1 of load management and commanded the rear defrost OFF.
7. Load Shed Lvl.1 Heated Seats The scan tool displays On/Off. The scan tool displays Off unless the RIM has entered level 1 of load management and commanded the Heated Seats OFF.
8. Load Shed Lvl.2 R. Defog. The scan tool displays On/Off. The scan tool displays Off unless the RIM has entered level 2 of load management and commanded the rear defrost OFF.
9. Load Shed Lvl.2 Heated Seats The scan tool displays On/Off. The scan tool displays Off unless the RIM has entered level 2 of load management and commanded the Heated Seats OFF.
10. Starter Enable Relay Circuit Status The scan tool displays Fault/OK/Invalid State. The scan tool displays Fault until the ignition is placed into the START position then OK is displayed.
11. Starter Relay Command The scan tool displays ON/OFF. The scan tool displays Off until the ignition is placed into the CRANK position, then it reads On.

Scheme 11

Circuit Description

The voltage level is monitored by the Dash Integration Module (DIM) and is sent as a Class 2 data message to the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). If the DIM looses power the IPC will failsoft to the last voltage level.

Conditions For Running DTC

1. The key is in the ON position.
2. The engine is running.

Conditions For Setting DTC

This DTC will be set as current when the voltage is greater than 16.2 volts for 30 seconds with the engine running.

Action Taken When DTC Sets

The charging system telltale and driver warning message will be set in the Drivers Information Center.

Conditions For Clearing MIL/DTC

The DTC clears as a current status when the voltage falls below 16.2 volts for 30 seconds with the engine running.

Scheme 12

SYMPTOMS - ENGINE ELECTRICAL

Note. The following steps must be completed before using the symptom tables.

1. Perform «DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK - ENGINE ELECTRICAL»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) before using the Symptom Tables in order to verify that all of the following are true: There are no DTCs set. The control module(s) can communicate via the serial data link.
2. Review the system operation in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to one of the following system operations: «BATTERY DESCRIPTION & OPERATION»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) «STARTING SYSTEM»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/starter/#starting-system) «GENERATORS & REGULATORS»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/charging-system/#charging-system__description-operation) «LOAD SHED SYSTEM DESCRIPTION & OPERATION»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery)

Visual/Physical Inspection

1. Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the Starting and Charging Systems. Refer to «CHECKING AFTERMARKET ACCESSORIES»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/accessories-control-systems/#wiring-systems-general-information__checking-aftermarket-accessories) in Wiring Systems.
2. Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.

Intermittent

Faulty electrical connections or wiring may be the cause of intermittent conditions. Refer to TESTING FOR INTERMITTENT & POOR CONNECTIONS in Wiring Systems.

Symptom List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom

1. «BATTERY ELECTRICAL DRAIN/PARASITIC LOAD TEST»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery)
2. «BATTERY INSPECTION/TEST»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery)
3. «BATTERY COMMON CAUSES OF FAILURE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery)
4. «CHARGING SYSTEM TEST»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/charging-system/#charging-system)
5. «CHARGE INDICATOR ALWAYS ON»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/charging-system/#charging-system__test-b-charge-indicator-always-on)
6. «CHARGE INDICATOR INOPERATIVE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/charging-system/#charging-system__test-c-charge-indicator-inoperative)
7. «GENERATOR NOISE DIAGNOSIS»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/charging-system/#charging-system__test-d-generator-noise-diagnosis)
8. «STARTER SOLENOID DOES NOT CLICK»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/starter/#starting-system__test-a-starter-solenoid-does-not)
9. «STARTER SOLENOID CLICKS, ENGINE DOES»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/starter/#starting-system__test-b-starter-solenoid-clicks-engine)
10. «ENGINE CRANKS SLOWLY»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/starter/#starting-system__test-c-engine-cranks-slowly)
11. «STARTER NOISE DIAGNOSIS»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/starter/#starting-system)

Note. Tools Required: Digital Battery Tester (J 42000).

Note. The battery test using the J 42000 requires correct connections to the battery terminals. A failure to obtain the correct connections during the test may result in a failed test on a good battery.

Diagnostic Aids

Follow these instructions in order to avoid an incorrect diagnosis because of connections

1. If testing the vehicle with the battery cables still connected, wiggle the J 42000 clips on the terminal bolt. This may cut through any coating or through any oxidation that may be present on the bolt. Even new bolts contain a protective coating that may insulate or cause a resistance in the test circuit.
2. If correct connections to the battery terminal bolts in the vehicle are in doubt, perform the following steps: Disconnect the negative battery cable. Disconnect the positive battery cable. Install the test adapters on the terminals. Follow the instructions for testing a removed battery.
3. If the tester displays a REPLACE BATTERY or BAD CELL-REPLACE result for a battery tested in the vehicle with the battery cables connected, perform the following steps: Disconnect the negative battery cable. Disconnect the positive battery cable. Install the tester adapters. Follow the instructions for testing a removed battery. Replace the battery only if the second test shows a REPLACE BATTERY or BAD CELL-REPLACE result.
4. Use the correct terminal adapters.

Do not use any common bolts or a combination of bolts, of nuts, and of washers as adapters when testing the battery.

Use the test adapters that are provided with the J 42000 or P/N 12303040 terminal adapters. If the adapters that are provided with the J 42000 require replacement, use P/N 12303040. Any other adapter may not contact the correct areas of the battery terminal, causing a resistance that may result in an invalid battery test result.

Scheme 13

Scheme 14

Scheme 15

Note. Tools Required: Battery Tester (J 42000).

1. For best results, use an automatic taper-rate battery charger with a voltage capability of 16 volts.
2. A battery showing a green dot in the hydrometer (1) does not need to be charged unless the J 42000 has shown that the battery needs to be charged.
3. A battery showing a dark dot in the hydrometer (2) should be charged unless the J 42000 has indicated no charge is needed.
4. Do not charge a battery when the built in hydrometer is clear or yellow in the center (3). Tap the hydrometer lightly in order to dislodge any air bubbles. The bubbles may cause a false indication. If the hydrometer is still clear or yellow, replace the battery.
5. The charging area should be well ventilated.
6. Do not charge a battery that appears to be frozen; allow the battery to warm to room temperature and test it before charging.

Charging Time Required

The time required to charge a battery will vary depending upon the following factors

1. The battery charger capacity. The higher the charger's amperage, the less time it will take to charge the battery.
2. The state-of-charge of the battery. A completely discharged battery requires more than twice as much charging time as a half charged battery. In a discharged battery with a voltage below 11 volts, the battery has a very high internal resistance and may only accept a very low current at first. Later, as the charging current causes the acid content to increase in the electrolyte, the charging current will increase. Extremely discharged batteries may not activate the reversed voltage protection in some chargers. Refer to the manufacturers instructions for operating this circuitry.
3. The temperature of the battery. The colder the battery is, the more time it takes to recharge the battery. The charging current accepted by a cold battery is very low at first. As the battery warms, the charging current will increase.

Charging Procedure

When charging side-terminal batteries with the battery cables connected, connect the charger to the positive cable bolt and to a ground located away from the battery. When charging side-terminal batteries with the battery cables disconnected, install the battery side terminal adapters and connect the charger to the adapters. Tighten the battery side terminal adapters to 15 N.m (11 ft lbs).

Use the following procedure to charge the battery

1. Turn OFF the charger.
2. Ensure that all of the battery terminal connections are clean and tight.
3. Connect the charger positive lead to the battery positive terminal on the Battery or Fuse Block - Underhood. CAUTION: Do not connect the negative charger lead to the housings of other vehicle electrical accessories or equipment. The action of the battery charger may damage such equipment.
4. Connect the negative charger lead to a solid engine ground or to a ground stud in the engine compartment that is connected directly to the battery negative terminal, but away from the battery. If the negative battery cable is disconnected and a terminal adapter is being used, connect directly to the adapter.
5. Turn ON the charger and set to the highest setting for normal charging.
6. Inspect the battery every half hour after starting the battery charger. Charge the battery until the hydrometer has a green dot or until the taper-rate charger indicates that the battery is fully charged, whichever occurs first. Tap the hydrometer lightly in order to dislodge any air bubbles. The bubbles may cause a false indication. Estimate the battery temperature by feeling the side of the battery. If it feels hot to the touch or its temperature is over 45°C (125°F), discontinue charging and allow the battery to cool before resuming charging.
7. After charging, test the battery. Refer to «BATTERY INSPECTION/TEST»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) .

Note. Tools Required: Parasitic Draw Test Switch (J 38758).

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable from the battery negative terminal.
2. Install the male end of the J 38758 to the battery negative terminal. NOTE: The switch knob (1) on the J 38758 is marked ON and OFF. When the switch knob is in the ON position, the circuit is closed and electrical current will pass through the switch. When the switch knob is in the OFF position, the circuit is open and electrical current will not pass through the switch.
3. Turn the J 38758 knob (1) to the OFF position.
4. Install the battery negative cable to the female end of the J 38758.
5. Turn the J 38758 knob to the ON position.
6. Road test the vehicle and activate all of the accessories, including the radio and the air conditioning.
7. Turn OFF all accessories including courtesy lamps.
8. Park the vehicle. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position and remove the ignition key.
9. Connect a 10 A fused jumper wire to the test switch tool terminals.
10. Turn the J 38758 knob (1) to the OFF position. The current flows through the jumper wire.
11. Wait one minute. If the fuse blows, use an inductive ammeter to locate the current draw.
12. Set a digital multimeter to the 10 A scale.
13. Connect the digital multimeter to the test switch tool terminals.
14. Turn the J 38758 knob (1) to the OFF position.
15. Wait one minute. Check and record the current reading. When there is a current reading of 2 A or less, turn the J 38758 knob to the ON position. The electrical current will now pass through the switch. Then, switch the digital multimeter to the 2 A scale for a more accurate reading.
16. Turn the J 38758 knob to the OFF position. Wait 10 minutes.
17. Record the current reading.
18. Note the battery reserve capacity. Refer to «BATTERY USAGE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) . Divide the reserve capacity by 4. Compare this to the multimeter milliampere reading taken in the previous step. The parasitic current drain should not exceed this number. Example: If a battery has a reserve capacity of 100 minutes, the current drain should not exceed 25 mA.
19. Inspect the charging system. If the vehicle has an acceptable amount of current drain, refer to «CHARGING SYSTEM TEST»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/charging-system/#charging-system) . CAUTION: The test switch must be in the ON position when removing the fuses in order to maintain continuity in the electrical system. This avoids damaging the digital multimeter due to accidental overloading, such as a door being opened to change a fuse.
20. When the vehicle has an unacceptable amount of parasitic current drain, remove each fuse one at a time until the current drain falls to an acceptable level. This will indicate which circuit is causing the drain. Refer to «POWER DISTRIBUTION»(ref-151159-S11055392482002121200000) to diagnose exactly which part of the suspect circuit is causing the parasitic drain. In some cases a non-fused circuit or component, such as a generator, is the cause of excessive parasitic current drain.
21. Repeat the parasitic current drain test procedure after any repair has been completed to make sure that the parasitic current drain is now at an acceptable level.
22. When the cause of the excessive current draw has been located and repaired, remove the J 38758.
23. Connect the negative battery cable. Tighten the negative battery cable bolt to 15 N.m (11 ft lbs). CAUTION: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

A battery is not designed to last forever. With proper care, however, the battery will provide years of good service. If the battery tests good but still fails to perform well, the following are some of the more common causes

1. A vehicle accessory was left on overnight.
2. The driving speeds have been slow with frequent stops, stop-and-go driving, with many electrical accessories in use, particularly air conditioning, headlights, wipers, heated rear window, cellular telephone, etc.
3. The electrical load has exceeded the generator output, particularly with the addition of aftermarket equipment.
4. Existing conditions in the charging system, including the following possibilities. A slipping belt. A bad generator.
5. The battery has not been properly maintained, including a loose battery hold down or missing battery insulator if used.
6. There are mechanical conditions in the electrical system, such as a short or a pinched wire, attributing to power failure. Refer to «GENERAL ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURES»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/accessories-control-systems/#wiring-systems-general-information) in Wiring Systems.

Electrolyte Freezing

The freezing point of electrolyte depends on its specific gravity. A fully charged battery will not freeze until the ambient temperature gets below -54°C (-65°F). However, a battery with a low state of charge may freeze at temperatures as high as -7°C (20°F). Since freezing may ruin a battery, the battery should be protected against freezing by keeping it properly charged. As long as the green eye is visible in the hydrometer, the freezing point of the battery will be somewhere below -32°C (-25°F).

Certain devices on the vehicle maintain a small continuous current drain, parasitic load, on the battery. A battery that is not used for an extended period of time will discharge. Eventually permanent damage will result. Discharged batteries will also freeze in cold weather. Refer to BATTERY INSPECTION/TEST .

In order to maintain the battery state of charge while storing the vehicle for more than 30 days

1. Make sure that the green dot is visible in the built-in hydrometer. WARNING: Before servicing any electrical component, the ignition key must be in the OFF or LOCK position and all electrical loads must be OFF, unless instructed otherwise in these procedures. If a tool or equipment could easily come in contact with a live exposed electrical terminal, also disconnect the negative battery cable. Failure to follow these precautions may cause personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.
2. Disconnect the battery ground cable to protect the battery from discharge by parasitic current drains.

When the battery cannot be disconnected

1. Maintain a high state of charge.
2. Establish a regular schedule for recharging the battery every 20-45 days.

A battery that has remained in a discharged state for a long period of time is difficult to recharge or may be permanently damaged.

JUMP STARTING IN CASE OF EMERGENCY

1. Position the vehicle with the booster battery so that the jumper cables will reach. Do not let the two vehicles touch. Make sure that the jumper cables do not have loose ends, or missing insulation.
2. Place an automatic transmission in PARK. If equipped with a manual transmission, place in NEUTRAL and block the wheels.
3. Turn off all electrical loads on both vehicles that are not needed.
4. Turn OFF the ignition on both vehicles.
5. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the remote positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the discharged battery.
6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the booster battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
7. Connect the black negative (-) cable to the negative (-) terminal of the booster battery. WARNING: Do not connect a jumper cable directly to the negative terminal of a discharged battery to prevent sparking and possible explosion of battery gases.
8. The final connection is made to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part of the vehicle with the discharged battery. This final attachment must be at least 46 cm (18 in) away from the dead battery.
9. Start the engine of the vehicle that is providing the boost. CAUTION: Never operate the starter motor more than 15 seconds at a time without pausing in order to allow it to cool for at least 2 minutes. Overheating will damage the starter motor.
10. Crank the engine of the vehicle with the discharged battery.
11. The black negative (-) cable must be first disconnected from the vehicle that was boosted.
12. Disconnect the black negative (-) cable from the negative (-) terminal of the booster battery. CAUTION: Do not let the cable end touch any metal. Damage to the battery and other components may result.
13. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the positive (+) terminal of the booster battery.
14. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the remote positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the discharged battery.

Removal Procedure

1. Remove the rear seat cushion. Refer to «SEAT CUSHION REPLACEMENT - REAR»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/seats/#power-seat-system) in Seats. WARNING: Before servicing any electrical component, the ignition key must be in the OFF or LOCK position and all electrical loads must be OFF, unless instructed otherwise in these procedures. If a tool or equipment could easily come in contact with a live exposed electrical terminal, also disconnect the negative battery cable. Failure to follow these precautions may cause personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery.

Scheme 16

Installation Procedure

1. Connect the negative battery cable to the battery. Tighten the negative battery cable bolt to 15 N.m (11 ft lbs).
2. Install the rear seat cushion. Refer to «SEAT CUSHION REPLACEMENT - REAR»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/seats/#power-seat-system) in Seats.

Note. Always use replacement cables that are of the same type, diameter and length of the cables that you are replacing. Always route the replacement cable the same way as the original cable.

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable. Refer to «BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE DISCONNECT/CONNECT PROCEDURE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) .
2. Disconnect the body harness from the battery negative cable.
3. Disconnect the battery negative cable from the floor pan.
4. Remove the battery negative cable from the vehicle.

Scheme 17

Note. When installing the battery negative cable, be sure that the cable eyelet is installed with the flat side down. Keep the crimped side facing upward.

1. Connect the body end of the battery negative cable to the floor pan. Tighten the battery negative cable to floor pan bolt to 36 N.m (27 ft lbs).
2. Connect the body harness connector to the body harness.
3. Connect the battery negative cable. Refer to «BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE DISCONNECT/CONNECT PROCEDURE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) .

Note. Always use replacement cables that are of the same type, diameter and length of the cables that you are replacing. Always route the replacement cable the same way as the original cable.

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable. Refer to «BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE DISCONNECT/CONNECT PROCEDURE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) .
2. Disconnect the positive battery cable (1) from the battery.
3. Remove the nut (1) securing the positive battery cable to the rear fuse block.
4. Remove the right side garnish molding. Refer to «GARNISH MOLDING REPLACEMENT - CENTER PILLAR»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__garnish-molding-replacement-center-pillar) in Interior Trim to expose the positive battery cable.
5. Remove the right front and rear carpet retainers. Refer to «CARPET RETAINER REPLACEMENT»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim) in Interior Trim.
6. Remove the right closeout insulator panel. Refer to «CLOSEOUT/INSULATOR PANEL REPLACEMENT-RIGHT»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#instrument-panel-gauges-console) in Instrument Panel, Gages and Console.
7. Remove the battery cable retainers (2) from the rocker panel area.
8. Remove the retaining nut (1) and disconnect the battery cable from the underhood fuse block.
9. Disconnect the battery cable retainer (2) from the body side rail.
10. Unseat the battery cable grommet (2) from the cowl panel (3).
11. Carefully remove the battery cable (1) from the vehicle by pulling the cable through the cowl panel (3) and out of the vehicle.

Scheme 18

1. Slide the battery cable (1) through the opening in the cowl panel (3) and seat the cable grommet (2) by pulling the cable forward into the engine compartment.
2. Install the battery cable retainer to the body side rail (1). CAUTION: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
3. Connect the cable to the under hood electrical center and install the nut (1). Tighten the battery cable to underhood fuse block nut to 15 N.m (11 ft lbs).
4. Route the battery cable (1) along the rocker panel and install the cable retainers (2).
5. Install the right closeout insulator panel. Refer to «CLOSEOUT/INSULATOR PANEL REPLACEMENT-RIGHT»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#instrument-panel-gauges-console) in Instrument Panel, Gages and Console.
6. Install the right front and rear carpet retainers. Refer to «CARPET RETAINER REPLACEMENT»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim) in Interior Trim.
7. Install the right side garnish molding. Refer to «GARNISH MOLDING REPLACEMENT - CENTER PILLAR»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__garnish-molding-replacement-center-pillar) in Interior Trim.
8. Connect the positive battery cable to the rear fuse block. Tighten the battery cable to rear fuse block nut (1) to 15 N.m (11 ft lbs).
9. Connect the positive battery cable (1) to the battery. Tighten the battery cable bolt to 17 N.m (13 ft lbs).
10. Connect the battery negative cable. Refer to «BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE DISCONNECT/CONNECT PROCEDURE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) .

1. Disconnect the battery negative cable. Refer to «BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE DISCONNECT/CONNECT PROCEDURE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) .
2. Disconnect the battery positive cable (1) from the battery.
3. Remove the battery vent tube (1) from the battery.
4. Remove the battery retainer bolt and battery retainer.
5. Remove the battery.

Scheme 19

1. Install the battery. CAUTION: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.
2. Install the battery retainer and bolt. Tighten the battery retainer bolt to 17 N.m (13 ft lbs). NOTE: Ensure the vent tube (1) is properly routed through the floor pan grommet.
3. Install the battery vent tube (1) to the battery.
4. Connect the battery positive cable (1) to the battery. Tighten the battery cable bolt to 17 N.m (13 ft lbs).
5. Connect the battery negative cable. Refer to «BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE DISCONNECT/CONNECT PROCEDURE»(/buick/lesabre/viii-2000-2005/remont/body-electrical/#battery) .

Scheme 20

The maintenance free battery is standard. There are no vent plugs in the cover. The battery is completely sealed except for 2 small vent holes in the side. These vent holes allow the small amount of gas that is produced in the battery to escape.

The battery has 3 functions as a major source of energy

1. Engine cranking.
2. Voltage stabilizer.
3. Alternate source of energy with generator overload.

The battery specification label, example below, contains information about the following

1. The test ratings.
2. The original equipment catalog number.
3. The recommended replacement model number.

Scheme 21

A battery has 2 ratings

1. Reserve capacity.
2. Cold cranking amperage.

When a battery is replaced use a battery with similar ratings. Refer to the battery specification label on the original battery or refer to BATTERY USAGE .

Reserve Capacity

Reserve capacity is the amount of time in minutes it takes a fully charged battery, being discharged at a constant rate of 25 amperes and a constant temperature of 27°C (80°F) to reach a terminal voltage of 10.5 volts. Refer to BATTERY USAGE for the reserve capacity rating of the original equipment battery.

Cold Cranking Amperage

The cold cranking amperage is an indication of the ability of the battery to crank the engine at cold temperatures. The cold cranking amperage rating is the minimum amperage the battery must maintain for 30 seconds at -18°C (0°F) while maintaining at least 7.2 volts. Refer to BATTERY USAGE for the cold cranking amperage rating for this vehicle.

Electrical Load Management

Electrical load management is designed to maintain battery voltage and covers more than load-shed. The Dash Integration Module (DIM) will request increases in idle speed from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), when the vehicle is in park or neutral, as well as turn off loads in order to manage the electrical system and preserve the vehicle electrical power availability. The DIM calculates the battery temperature, voltage and charging rate at all times while the engine is running.

The DIM calculates the battery temperature by factoring in

1. The current intake manifold air temperature compared to the last temperature recorded when the ignition switch was turned OFF.
2. The current battery voltage compared to the last battery voltage recorded when the ignition switch was turned OFF.
3. The length of time since the last battery temperature calculation.

If the calculated battery temperature is below -15°C (5°F), the PMM institutes steps to control the load.

The DIM calculates the voltage of the battery by making constant voltage measurements and using the measurements to calculate the true battery voltage. If the DIM detects a low voltage, the DIM institutes steps to control the load.

The DIM calculates the net charge rate on the electrical system by making constant voltage measurements and using the measurements to calculate the charge rate in amp/hours. If the DIM detects a negative charge rate, equal to a discharge from the battery, the PMM institutes steps to control the load.

The DIM will either request an increase in the engine idle speed from the (PCM, VCM, ECM) or the DIM will turn off loads, called the load-shed function, in order to preserve the vehicle electrical system operation. The criteria used by the DIM to regulate this electrical load management are outlined below

Scheme 22

Scheme 23

Each load management function, either idle boost or load-shed, is discrete. No two functions are implemented at the same time.

During each load management function, the DIM checks the battery temperature, battery voltage and amp-hour calculations and determines if the DIM should implement a different power management function.

The highest loads on the electrical system are the resistance load of heating elements. The DIM controls the heating elements in the outside rear view mirrors, the rear window and the heated seats, either directly or by sending messages to any module controlling power to these devices.

The second highest load on the electrical system are the blowers used in the HVAC system. The DIM will send messages to the HVAC system controller that will result in reducing the blower operation on vehicles equipped with automatic HVAC systems.

Idle Boost Functions

The DIM sends a serial data request to the (PCM, ECM) to increase the idle speed. The (PCM, ECM) then adjusts the idle speed by using a special program and idle speed ramp calculations in order to prevent driveability and safety concerns. The idle speed boost and cancel function will vary from vehicle to vehicle and from one moment to another on the same vehicle. This happens because the (PCM, ECM) responds to changes in the inputs from the sensors used to control the powertrain.

Scheme 24

Scheme 25

See also:
• STARTING SYSTEM
• GENERATORS & REGULATORS
• CHECKING AFTERMARKET ACCESSORIES
• TESTING FOR INTERMITTENT & POOR CONNECTIONS
• CHARGING SYSTEM TEST
• CHARGE INDICATOR ALWAYS ON
• CHARGE INDICATOR INOPERATIVE
• GENERATOR NOISE DIAGNOSIS
• STARTER SOLENOID DOES NOT CLICK
• STARTER SOLENOID CLICKS, ENGINE DOES
• ENGINE CRANKS SLOWLY
• GENERAL ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS PROCEDURES
• SEAT CUSHION REPLACEMENT - REAR
• GARNISH MOLDING REPLACEMENT - CENTER PILLAR
• CARPET RETAINER REPLACEMENT
• CLOSEOUT/INSULATOR PANEL REPLACEMENT-RIGHT
• DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK - ENGINE ELECTRICAL