I've read some horror stories about some factory batteries leaking. I've looked at mine from the top and I do not see any obvious leaks. Is it necessary to pull the battery out of the car to inspect under it? Where do they leak from? If I pull the battery for inspection, what will I have to reprogram after I reinstall the battery? Thanks in advance. :seeya

 

And the horror stories are true.

My 2000's battery began leaking just after I sold it (thankfully!). The owner started getting odd codes on his DIC.....this was the acid working it's way into the computer, wires and hoses located directly below the battery. At that point, the battery was exactly 3 years old, and I TOLD him that a new battery was something he should do soon.........

Anyway, since the car was still under warranty (by about a week!), GM fixed it.

And there were NO outward signs of the battery leak. It could not be seen from the top.

You are right to be concerned about your battery. If it's over 2 years old, I'd change it. However, I understand that some guys have had problems much sooner than that, and others none at all. I'm sure some else will have plenty to say about the factory Delco and leaks........

I forgot what gets *lost* when you pull the battery.....maybe radio settings and key fobs. (?) I've hooked up a battery charger (or a little 12 volt power source) to various cars when changing batteries, preventing any *brain loss*. Of course, this little trick must be done knowledgeably to prevent sparks, etc.

Finally, the Z06 battery doesn't leak, as it's filled with a gel instead of liquid acid. and it's a few pounds lighter. But, I'm sure it's damn expensive compared to any of the aftermarket batteries, such as Optima, etc.

You'll hear from many Optima fans, I'm sure.



[Modified by Tracy, 12:48 PM 1/12/2003]

 

seattle,

I speak from experience - the original Delco battery in my 1999 C5 coupe (purchased new) leaked and caused considerable damage to items beneath.

The acid usually leaks from the positive terminal and runs behind the plastic terminal and down the battery. The leak is concealed by the foam battery insulator. The acid runs underneath the battery and down through a center opening in the batter tray.

Beneath the battery and tray are vacuum lines, wiring, and a computer. The acid will damage all of them and damage the paint on the body frame. I did not realize my battery was leaking acid until I noticed a small rusty puddle under the car after I washed it.

The Delco battery (except the AGM) is notorious for leaking. Chevrolet is well aware of this problem and has ignored it. I would replace your battery with the AGM type, which can not leak acid.

I can't believe Dave Hill and his crack C5 team placed a battery with acid above numerous critical components. A plastic shield could have been designed to be placed over the computer and vacuum line harness, which would have prevented acid damage.

It took three trips to Mr. Goodwrench to have my car repaired under the new car warranty.

Check you battery - Good luck.