3 min
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May 18, 2022 | Carlos Preciado

How to Connect a Ferrari Battery Charger

3 min

Let us guide you through the process of connecting your battery re-conditioner.

Carlos Preciado
May 18, 2022

The phrase “if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it” has never been more accurate than with regards to automotive batteries. When a battery is in a discharged state for an extended period of time the lead sulfate crystals inside the battery begin to increase in size. The bigger the crystals get, the harder they are to dissolve which ultimately blocks the chemical reaction that allows the battery to charge, and eventually leads to battery failure.

Genuine Ferrari  Battery Re-conditioners are designed to maintain a battery’s charge and combat the growth of sulfate crystals.  A Battery Re-conditioner should be utilized any time a vehicle is parked for long periods of time.  This is especially vital for new vehicles which contain more electrical components that put a drain the battery.

There are various methods of connecting a Ferrari battery charger depending on the model/year. Follow along as we show you how to connect your battery charger.

DIRECTLY TO THE BATTERY: 

For vehicles manufactured before 2006 a charger is typically connected directly to the battery using the alligator clips located on the end of the charger terminals. First connect the positive (red) cable on the charger to the positive terminal on the battery, followed by the negative (black) cable on to the negative terminal on the battery. Then plug in the charger's power cable and  verify that the status light indicates that it is charging properly.

AFTERMARKET ADAPTER: 

In lieu of connecting the terminals directly to the battery, models that did not have a battery charger plug installed at the factory can have an aftermarket adapted installed by the Ferrari Beverly Hills' service department. The adapter plugs directly into most common aftermarket chargers including Battery Tender brand chargers. Simply plug in the charger to the aftermarket adapter, then plug in the charger's power cable and  verify that the status light indicates that it is charging properly.

FACTORY PLUG (TRUNK): 

For Ferrari 612, 599, F12 Berlinetta, California, FF, 360 (under the front lid, if equipped) models, The battery charger plug is located in the trunk of the vehicle and is accessible via the removable access door. The charger plug can be can simply be aligned and pushed in. To remove the plug, simply depress the metal release tab and pull. Finally, replace the access door.

FACTORY PLUG (PASSENGER FOOTWELL):

For Ferrari 430 Scuderia, 16M, 458 Italia, 458 Spider, 458 Speciale and 458 Speciale Aperta models, The battery charger plug is located in the passenger footwell, under the dash. The charger plug can be can simply be aligned and pushed in. To remove the plug, simply depress the metal release tab and pull.

FACTORY MAGNETIC PLUG:

For Ferrari 2016MY FF, F12TDF, California T, GTC4Lusso, GTC4LussoT, 812 Superfast, 488 GTB, 488 Spider, 488 Pista*, 488 Pista Spider* models, the charger features a magnetic plug. This newer design prevents damage should a driver unknowingly drive off with the charger still attached, as it will unplug with the slightest pull. The magnetic plug's exact location varies by model but it is typically on the rear bumper near the license plate.

The Ferrari South Bay Service team is here to help should you require further assistance connecting your charger. If you believe your battery may have failed, they will gladly test it and if need be, replace it. Should you need to acquire a battery charger, our parts department can assist you in securing one.