Inspect the following items:
1. Date code on the battery label. This tells the date that the battery was installed in the vehicle.
2. Battery case condition. Electrolyte deposits on the surface of the case can conduct electricity between the positive and negative terminals, discharging the battery. Check for damage to the battery case.
3. Level of the electrolyte. Add distilled water as needed to fill the battery to the split ring at the bottom of the hole beneath the cell cap. If one of the cells is low, there could be a short in that cell. Low electrolyte throughout the battery indicates the possibility of overcharging.
4. Condition of the cables and terminals. Clean them as needed.
5. Battery holddown and tray.
6. Built-in hydrometer (some batteries).