V40 L4-1.9L Turbo VIN 29 B4204T3 (2002)
temperature of +25°C (+77°F) without the terminal voltage going below 10.5 V.
Example: A battery (of open type) with a stated capacity of 70 Ah should be able to provide a constant current of a max. 3.5 A (3.5 A x 20 h = 70 Ah)
for 20 hours.
The capacity of a battery is not only dependent on the size and construction of the battery, but also varies considerably for batteries of the same type with
the size of the discharge current. The lower the discharge current the higher the capacity and vice versa. The capacity of the battery is also affected by
the temperature and the age of the battery. The nominal value is given at +25°C (+77°F). The capacity of the battery reduces considerably at low
temperatures.
The table shows the difference in capacity in a battery at +25°C (+77°F) and -18°C (-0.4°F).
Battery service life
The service life of the battery depends primarily on its construction, maintenance and operating conditions. The following factors may shorten the
service life of the battery:
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High temperatures
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Cycling
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Low electrolyte level
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Deep discharging
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Incorrect charging
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Sulfation
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Corrosion
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Vibrations
To maintain the best possible service life and capacity, the battery must be maintained and charged in accordance with Volvo's recommendations.
High temperatures
A high ambient temperature speeds up the chemical processes in the battery during charging and discharging. For every 10°C (18°F) increase in
temperature, the reaction speed of the processes doubles. The risk of corrosion, self-discharge and sulfation increase at a high temperature and the
service life of the battery is reduced. The service life of a battery improves in colder surroundings.
Cycling
Cycling means all the discharging and charging in a battery. A battery is always cycling. Discharging, or cycling, can have varying degrees of depth.
Deeper discharge is more damaging than lesser discharge. Each discharge results in stress to the plates which deteriorate accordingly. Each instance of
cycling cause the material in the plates to become more fragile and ultimately some of this material will separate from the plates. Cycling results in a
reduction of capacity.
A lead battery cannot tolerate infinite cycling. Deep discharges should be avoided in order to maintain as long a service life as possible.
Low electrolyte level
The electrolyte level in an open battery (not maintenance-free battery and AGM-batteries) must be checked regularly. The water in the electrolyte is
consumed by gas production and absorption. Batteries have different water consumption. This depends on design and ambient temperature. The water is
used more quickly in hot climates.
