What is the best way to diagnose a shorted cell?

A shorted cell in a battery can lead to significant issues, including reduced performance and potential safety hazards. When diagnosing a shorted cell, one of the most effective indicators is measuring the battery voltage. If the voltage reading is below 9 volts, it typically suggests that the battery may be suffering from a short circuit or some other internal failure. This low voltage can imply that the cell is unable to hold a sufficient charge to operate correctly, which is a common symptom of a shorted cell.

The importance of checking the voltage is rooted in the fact that battery performance is quantifiable through voltage measurements. A healthy battery should register close to its nominal voltage; therefore, a reading below 9 volts serves as a reliable signal that further investigation into potential shorting within the cells is warranted. Identifying such a condition early can help prevent further damage to the battery system and ensure safety.

While other diagnostic methods, like checking temperature, examining for physical damage, or inspecting connections, can provide additional insights, they may not be as direct or definitive in confirming a shorted cell compared to the straightforward voltage measurement.