Son of "Two Week" Miata Battery

AlanRab · 2004-02-07T14:47:35+00:00

On 1/21 I posted a message indicating my '03 SE battery could not start mygaraged Miata after a 2-week hiatus this winter. My local dealer said thatwas normal considering all the things that drain the battery when notrunning.I wrote to Miata USA to verify whether the dealer was accurate whenindicating it was normal, as well as verify the battery's specs. Mazdareplied as follows:"Yes, it could be normal depending on one factor. I don't really know theweather conditions there, but if it's cold, this would be normal."("Editor's" Note: I had told Mazda my garage has not gotten colder than38F).As for the battery's specs, "I have spoken with our Product Engineers ... .They advised the battery equipped in the Mazda Miata is a gel battery.However, it's not rated in cold crank amps. The battery is rated at 32 amphours." ("Editor's" Question: Can a battery be accurately load-tested at alocal shop when I don't know the CCA rating?)Now for the upshot: Rather than fret any further about whether a 2-weekbattery is "normal," I went with a trickle charge to the battery when not inuse. I bought a Battery Tender Plus (see Thoughlargely intended for motorcycle and sports equipment batteries, it works forthe slightly larger Miata battery. Although I don't think it could chargethe battery from 3V or below, it has been doing a GREAT job so far,supplying 0.1 amps or less once in its trickle-charge mode. You can justplug it in and (almost) forget it, though it's best to do a visual check ofthe battery once a week.I think of it as an IV of electrons. With its quick disconnect to thebattery, I can unplug and go. As for now, there's plenty of messy slush outthere, so it's waiting time until my next winter drive.Alan'03 MiniMi, the SE

Feb 07, 2004 21 Replies

Rate this thread:

Lanny Chambers 22 years ago

1999, I think. Possibly not from the beginning of the model year in 1998, though. It may also have varied by market.

Vote

Barry 22 years ago

My 1999 was built in June 1999 and has the Panasonic battery. I bought the car in New Jersey.

Barry

Vote

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required