Is the New Battery Fully Charged?
2 Answers
New batteries are not fully charged. Precautions for the first charge: Regarding the charging time for the first charge, since the battery is unused when it leaves the factory and has not undergone charging and discharging, it is necessary to ensure the battery's normal operation. Generally, the charging time should be controlled at about 5-6 hours to fully charge the battery. Subsequent charging durations can follow the instructions on the battery manual, typically 8-10 hours. During the first charge, the battery should be fully charged, but fully charged does not mean overcharging. Charging during the day makes it easier to control the charging time, preventing overcharging and discharging during the first use, which helps ensure the initial chemical reactions inside the battery proceed normally. Battery maintenance: Charge promptly. If the battery is frequently "depleted," the battery plates can be easily damaged, so timely full charging is crucial. Before starting, ride the electric vehicle like a bicycle for a while before turning on the power. This can reduce the damage caused by high current to the battery plates. Deep discharge: After a period of use, the active material in the battery may settle. If not activated in time, it can affect the battery's capacity. Charger: Do not purchase fast chargers, as they can damage the battery plates. Use a battery protector, which can eliminate battery sulfation and keep the plates "clean," thereby extending the battery's lifespan. Batteries are sensitive to high temperatures, so avoid exposing them to direct sunlight.
New batteries usually come fully charged from the factory, but based on my auto repair experience, this isn't always absolute. After factory testing, they're pre-charged to 100%, but self-discharge during transportation or storage may cause power loss. I've replaced several batteries myself - once a brand-new car couldn't start after installation, and testing showed only 11.5V remaining, below the standard 12.6V, which was really troublesome. Now I always test new batteries with a multimeter first to ensure they're above 12.6V before use. Low voltage can easily damage vehicle electronics or cause breakdowns. I recommend buyers either have store staff test the battery on-site or charge it for a few hours with a dedicated battery charger before installation. Regular preventive measures like this can extend battery life and prevent headaches.
