battery cable

[derekgeorge]

Can anybody explain to me what the intelligent battery cable does?

[Bklynjoker]

Found this on "BavAuto.com" not 100% if this answers ur question:

"The positive cable has a Battery Safety Terminal (BST) this is a power disconnect device. The disconnect is activated via the Multiple Restrain System (MRS) module, in the event of a crash.
The negative cable carries the Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS). The IBS monitors battery conditions."

[PAX5]

Originally Posted by derekgeorge

Can anybody explain to me what the intelligent battery cable does?

The cable contains an Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS) that monitors (counts) the flow of electricity (electrons) into the battery from the alternator. As the battery ages, it feeds back a signal to the alternator to increase the output so that the battery is always properly charged.

This process repeats itself until the battery reaches "end of life" - usually about 4 to 5 years, depending on use and conditions.

However, the next point is critically important! When you replace the battery and hook it up without telling the car's system to reset the IBS, it will continue to tell the alternator to keep charging the new battery at the "old" (higher current) level!! This will ruin a new battery in a short time.

Always select a battery of the same Amp Hour (Ah) rating and have it "registered" to the car's system.

BTW, a dealer will charge you $400 to $500 for this ... battery included.