Which battery testing procedure is now considered outdated?

The 3-minute sulfation test is considered outdated primarily due to advancements in battery technology and testing methods. This procedure was originally developed to identify sulfation in lead-acid batteries, which can impair performance and lifespan. However, modern batteries, particularly those in newer vehicles, have different chemistries and behaviors that require more comprehensive testing approaches.

Conductance testing, load testing, and voltage drop testing remain relevant practices because they provide valuable information about the condition and performance of a battery. Conductance tests measure the overall health, load tests assess the battery’s ability to deliver current under a specific load, and voltage drop tests evaluate the condition of the connections within the starting system. These methods leverage updated technology to facilitate accurate assessments of battery performance, making them more suitable for contemporary applications. Therefore, the 3-minute sulfation test's reliance on older technology and its limited scope contributes to its status as outdated in contrast to more effective battery diagnostic techniques.