ther gas is being discharged by the bat-
teries.
Only charge the battery in a well ventilated
area.
There is a risk of acid burns during the
charging procedure due to the gases which
escape from the battery. Do not lean over
the battery when it is being charged.
G
WARNING
Never charge a battery while still installed
in the vehicle. Gases may escape during
charging and cause explosions that may
result in paint damage, corrosion or per-
sonal injury.
X
Charge battery in accordance with the
instructions of the battery charger man-
ufacturer.
!
Only use chargers of a correct and suit-
able voltage.
!
Never attempt to recharge a frozen bat-
tery. Have the battery checked at a smart
center. The battery housing could be
damaged.
Reinstalling the 12-volt battery
X
Reinstall the charged battery. Follow the
previously described steps in reverse
order.
!
The battery, its filler caps and the ven-
tilation hose must always be securely
installed when the vehicle is in opera-
tion.
Reconnecting the 12-volt battery
!
Always connect the battery in the order
described below. Otherwise the vehi-
cle’s electronics can be damaged.
X
Turn off all electrical accessories.
X
Remove the key from the starter switch.
!
Never invert the terminal connections!
X
Connect the battery positive lead and
fasten cover ? (Y page 199).
X
Connect battery negative lead =
(Y page 199).
i
After battery power (e.g. due to recon-
nection) was interrupted, you will have
to set the clock (Y page 94).
i
Have the battery’s charge status and
acid level checked at the start of the cold
season at a an authorized electric drive
smart center.
Jump starting
Notes
G
WARNING
Failure to follow these directions will
cause damage to the electronic components,
and can lead to a battery explosion and
severe injury or death.
Never lean over batteries while connecting
or jump starting, you might get injured.
Battery fluid contains sulfuric acid. Do not
allow this fluid to come in contact with
eyes, skin or clothing. In case it does,
immediately flush affected area with
water, and seek medical help if necessary.
A battery will also produce hydrogen gas,
which is flammable and very explosive.
Keep flames or sparks away from battery,
avoid improper connection of jumper
cables, smoking, etc.
Attempting to jump start a frozen battery
can result in it exploding, causing per-
sonal injury.
Read all instructions before proceeding.
!
Do not tow‑start vehicle. It is not pos-
sible to tow-start the vehicle. Attempt-
ing to do so may seriously damage the
drivetrain which would not be covered by
the smart Limited Warranty.
If the 12-volt battery is discharged, the
drive system cannot be started, regardless
200
Jump starting
>> Practical hints.