What does a fully charged car battery typically read when measured?

A fully charged car battery typically measures around 12.6 volts. This voltage indicates that the battery has been adequately charged and is in good condition. When a lead-acid battery is at full charge, the chemical reaction inside creates sufficient voltage to support the vehicle's electrical systems and start the engine. Measurements such as 12.4 volts suggest that the battery is partially charged, while a reading below this can indicate that the battery might need charging or servicing. A measurement of 13.0 volts generally occurs when the battery is being charged by the alternator, indicating that it is not just a resting state but rather an active charging condition. Therefore, the reading of 12.6 volts is the standard for a fully charged battery, making it the correct answer in this context.