If the voltage during charging reaches 15.5 volts, which action is appropriate?

• A. Continue charging
• B. Replace the battery
• C. Stop charging and remove the battery
• D. Recheck in 10 minutes

Answer: (B)

When charging a typical 12-volt lead-acid battery, the charging voltage should stay in the normal range around 13.8–14.4 volts. Seeing 15.5 volts during charging is well above the acceptable level and usually means the battery is no longer able to accept charge properly, often due to damaged cells or high internal resistance. This overvoltage can cause excessive gassing, electrolyte loss, overheating, and potential safety hazards.

Because the battery is not healthy, the right move is to replace it rather than continue trying to charge it. Stopping charging or rechecking later won’t fix the underlying fault and could lead to repeated overcharging or unpredictable performance. Replacing restores reliable operation and safety.