Car batteries are only able to last for about three to five years. If you are having issues with your car battery going dead, it could be time to replace your battery. Replacing it allows you to extend your time between starts.
Cars are safe and convenient, but you need to know how things work in an emergency. If you’ve never changed a car battery before, it would be best to learn how to change it properly.
Read the guide below to learn the best practices on how to change a car battery safely.
Wear Protective Gear
If you need to change a car battery, ensure you have the right tools for the job. You’ll need a wrench to remove the old battery and a socket to remove the terminals. You’ll also need a new battery and some terminal posts.
Before you start, it’s essential to wear the right gear. You’ll need eye protection and gloves to protect yourself from the battery acid. Once you have your gear on, you’re ready to start.
Locate Your Car Battery
It is usually easy to do, as it will be under the hood of your car. Some cars have a battery in the trunk. You can also check your car owner’s manual to know where the battery is.
Disconnect Battery Terminals
Start by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery. It is usually the black cable and has a minus sign. Also, disconnect the positive terminal, typically red and labeled with a plus sign.
Before accessing the terminals, you’ll need to remove a plastic guard on some cars. You can also cover the terminals with a cloth to avoid sparks. Once you disconnect the terminals, remove the old battery from the vehicle.
Remove the bracket of the battery if there is one. Some batteries have a release lever that you need to push down to remove the battery from the tray.
Clean Terminals and Battery Tray
If your car battery is more than three years old, it’s a good idea to clean the battery tray and terminal connectors. It will help prolong the life of your battery and keep it working.
Once the battery is out, look at the tray and the terminals. If you see some corrosion, clean them with a wire brush. You can also use a baking soda solution when doing the cleaning.
Install A New Battery
Make sure you have some knowledge of the different car battery types. A good quality unit can ensure proper performance and a much longer battery life.
To install the new battery, first, bolt the new battery in place and then connect the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. Tighten battery clamps to make sure it’s secured. Once the terminals are connected, close the hood and start the engine after a few minutes to test if the installation is done right.
Practice How to Change a Car Battery Safely Today
Always take extra precautions when changing a car battery, as batteries contain acid that can be harmful. Cover the terminals with a cloth when disconnecting the old battery to avoid sparks.
To install the new battery, connect the positive and negative terminals. Once the new battery is in place, start the car and let it idle for a few minutes to charge the battery. Knowing how to change a car battery safely can help avoid accidents and getting stranded on the road.
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