Study for the Automotive Electronics Test. Prepare with engaging flashcards and detailed multiple-choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with ease!

Practice this question and more.


During a high-rate discharge test, what should a good 12 volt battery read under load after 15 seconds?

  1. Higher than 8.5 volts

  2. Higher than 9.0 volts

  3. Higher than 9.6 volts

  4. Higher than 10.0 volts

The correct answer is: Higher than 9.6 volts

In a high-rate discharge test for a 12-volt automotive battery, the capacity and health of the battery are assessed by measuring the voltage after a specific time under load. A reading higher than 9.6 volts after 15 seconds indicates that the battery is in good condition and can still hold a sufficient charge to operate the vehicle's electrical systems effectively. When the voltage drops significantly below 9.6 volts, it suggests that the battery may be struggling to provide adequate power and could be nearing the end of its operational life. Thus, 9.6 volts serves as a benchmark that reflects the battery's ability to handle its functional requirements under load. Keeping this threshold helps ensure reliability in automotive applications and prevents situations where inadequate power affects vehicle performance.