Autos: battery test, part 2: load test

Self-tutoring about car batteries: the tutor mentions the load test.

The following is according to my understanding.

I mention in my post from March 28, 2024 some preliminary tests one can perform on a car battery. One would assume, at least, that a multimeter would be used.

Those tests don’t tell the whole story, however: a load test is important as well. To do a load test, one observes the voltage of the battery as the car starts; the battery voltage shouldn’t drop below 9.6V or 10V, depending on the source.

It seems that, in a non-running car, a battery can present a satisfactory voltage, yet still be unable to start the car. Once a car is started, even a struggling battery may manifest an apparently healthy voltage because it’s being supported by the alternator. I’ve witnessed both situations. Hence the need for a load test.

Source:

YouTube: ChrisFix: How to Test a Car Battery with a Multimeter

YouTube: Revive My Ride: Car Battery Load Test With Multimeter