During a 3-minute charge test, the battery should be replaced if the voltage rises above:

• A. 14.5 volts
• B. 15.5 volts
• C. 15.0 volts
• D. 16.0 volts

Answer: (B)

During a 3-minute charge test you’re looking at how the battery responds to a short, controlled charging condition. A healthy 12-volt lead-acid battery typically charges with a voltage that stays below roughly 15 volts. If the voltage climbs to about 15.5 volts or higher, it signals an abnormal internal condition (such as a deteriorated cell or unusual internal resistance) that means the battery is unlikely to recover and should be replaced. Values around 14 to 15 volts are normal for charging, with 16 volts being clearly excessive and risky for overcharging, so 15.5 volts serves as the practical cutoff for deciding replacement after this quick test.