Where do I connect my battery charger?

[Raynald]

Ok, I admit I should have listened to my mechanic... My 6 and a half years old battery is dying, and today its -20ºC. The XC is in the driveway, very very weak... Fortunately, since I work at home, she can stay there for a while.

So my question is. where do I connect my battery charger? Ok, you funny guy, I know, I know, in the wall outlet !! But the other end, can I connect it under the hood (as for jumpstarts) or should I connect it directly to the battery (less convenient, I must say...)?

Thanks guys!

[ncoonen]

Under you hood is fine. The big red cable there makes a direct connection to your battery.

...ned.

[dlr97]

On the right side of the engine (above the trans) is a large plastic box with the word "FUSE" on its cover. Just behind it is a small black cover with a + sign on it. Connect the positive lead from charger to the terminal under this small cover. Connect the negative lead to a metal ground on the engine somewhere.

(I'm assuming my 2004 has the same layout under the hood as your 2001.)

[Raynald]

Thanks guy! I was pretty sure I could, but it's always comforting to be confirmed by pros!

[MoeB]

(I'm assuming my 2004 has the same layout under the hood as your 2001.)

I believe it does. FYI, here are the manual instructions for jump starting the '01.

Oddly, these instructions say to disconnect the battery when using a battery charger "directly on the battery," but not if the charger is connected via the connecting points in engine compartment.

[JRL]

I believe it does. FYI, here are the manual instructions for jump starting the '01.

Oddly, these instructions say to disconnect the battery when using a battery charger "directly on the battery," but not if the charger is connected via the connecting points in engine compartment.

...and buy a battery!
Batteries are only good for maybe 4 years, TOPS, after that they get weaker and weaker

[Raynald]

...and buy a battery!
Batteries are only good for maybe 4 years, TOPS, after that they get weaker and weaker

I know, I know, shame on me...

[Willy]

You may consider buying a high capacity battery, they don't cost much more.
I had my car delivered with a 92A battery (as applied in the diesel car), the biggest one that would fit.
The ability of a battery to deliver peak currents for a short period can also differ among brands/types.
Willy

[tgwillard]

While on the topic of replacement batteries, I assume it is important to replace OEM battery with one that also comes with the vent tube.