Do I need to disconnect the battery from the car to charge it?

[mikefocke]

I've maintained my battery for 5 winters via a maintainer plugged into the "lighter" socket and only disconnected the battery to replace it (it was 5+ years old).

I use the socket rather than direct connect to the battery because the route of the wiring into the cabin is easy because of the cut outs in the weatherstripping under the doors. I don't want critters getting into the front trunk nor do I want the wiring to permanently deform the weatherstripping seal on the front trunk lid.

Tips I've picked up for winter and the Boxster here .