[FiskerZee]

Hi fellow forum members. As Winter is almost here, and I don't want to be stranded somewhere cold and nasty due to a bad or weak 12V battery, I have three questions:

1. How can I check the health of the battery without actually getting to its terminals? Can I muse my check device somewhere else on some other terminals that represent the battery life?

2. Just in case I do get stranded because of a bad or weak battery, exactly where is this elusive battery located and how does one get to it to change it? Any diagrams? Do I have to take the passenger front wheel off to do this?

3. After changing it, do we have to do a re-flash or is it like any other car, just get in and all will be fine?

Thanks all.

 

[Ira]

There's a lot about the 12V battery here on the Buzz. For example, see: http://www.fiskerbuzz.com/forums/13-fisker-karma/981-12-volt-battery-2.html

Also, since most of the original 12V batteries were installed in 2011, it would be a good idea to replace it even if it's okay at the moment. Discuss this with your CSP.

 

[Harleyguy]

Replace the battery if you have any doubts about the battery CSP on the battery without labor $279.37

 

[FiskerZee]

Thanks Ira and Harleyguy. The battery is likely the original battery but it had always been fully maintained and never given any trouble. I will likely pull off the wheel and look at the old battery. I have had other cars (not Karma) die on me because of four or five year old batteries and don't want the same thing happening here. If I do change the battery, do I have to do anything special to the car before starting? Also, any specific model and make anyone suggets Thanks

 

[Ira]

My 12V battery is fine at the moment but Pat's Garage is changing it next week for preventative maintenance. It's covered under the CSP.

It sounds like you're into a DIY, and if so, contact Karma Automotive or any CSP for the specs.

 

[FiskerZee]

I will, thanks.

 

[fiskerjim]

Zee, how about GT Auto pulling it and replacing if necessary under your warranty?

 

[JCMorrill]

I just did mine a few months ago. The heat out here kills lead batteries faster than the cold. Didn't want to be "stuck" somewhere not able to get into the car someday.

 

[FiskerZee]

Jim; They advised all is OK with the battery. I was just wondering where it was and how to pull it. Now, I know just in case it dies.

 

[PowerSource]

Step 1: Disconnect 12v and Pull Front Passenger Side Wheel.
Step 2: Remove inner fender liner
Step 3: Remove battery tie-downs
Step 4: Remove current sensor and terminals
Step 5: Reverse Procedure ( I use odyssey batteries in my Karma's and they are great)

 

[FiskerZee]

thanks very much