Want to change car battery and do not know how to begin doing it? It is by no means a hard job. We have simplified it for you. Even if you don’t have special skills, you don’t need to worry. You need to take out some basic tools for, few minutes.
One of the major causes of a car not starting is because of a dead battery. Learning how to replace car battery by yourself would save time and money in case they were to wait until they get a mechanic or have to spend extra money at a workshop. And, it makes you feel stronger about the small problems in your car that you could solve by yourself. Our guide will help you learn how to replace car batteries in 5 easy steps.
Tools and Preparation to change a car battery
As you are starting, you will need to prepare the necessary materials: gloves, a wrench, a new battery, and battery cleaner (optional). It should be parked on a flat surface safely with the car switched off. It is advisable to use protective gloves and safety glasses to prevent exposure of battery acid. Make sure you get the correct type of battery by examining the manual of your car or by obtaining advice from an auto store.
Signs Your Car Battery Needs Replacement
- Slow engine crankings
- The battery light on the dashboard is on the screen
- Puff-faced or dripping battery.
- The battery is 3+ years old
- Flickering lights, Weak Power
When these problems occur, it is necessary to know how to replace car battery yourself.
How to Replace Car Battery in 5 Easy Steps
Step 1: Turn off the engine and open the hood
To learn how to replace a car battery, step 1 is to park your car and turn off the ignition fully. Then open the hood and secure it carefully using hood proof.
Step 2: Disconnect the negative terminal
Locate the black (-) cable and unfasten it using a wrench. Gently unplug it to prevent sparks or short circuiting. Tuck the cable so as not to touch the battery again. You always need to take out the negative before the positive.
Step 3: Disconnect the positive terminal
Now, unlock the red (+) cable and remove it. If it has a hold-down clamp, remove it to release the battery.
Step 4: Remove the old battery and install the new one
Use both hands to raise the old battery vertically- it is heavy. Install a new battery in the same location and orientation. Make sure that the battery is lying flat and not jiggling around. Use the terminals in the same direction.
Step 5: Reconnect the terminals (positive first)
Join and connect the red ( + ) cable, then the black ( – ) one. It is important to ensure that everything is well connected and then close the hood. Put on a dab of petroleum jelly or terminal protector to stop rusting. Put the car on to make sure that the battery is in good condition.
Conclusion:
Knowing how to change a car battery is a simple and convenient skill that can help you save on time and money. All you require is some tools, and with simple steps to follow, you can replace the battery all on your own without attracting a mechanic. All that and how to prepare and how to jump start your car can be explained to you step by step in this tutorial How to Replace Car Battery in 5 Easy Steps (No Mechanic Needed). And when your battery dies next time, you will be at ease and on top of the situation, ready to rectify it all by yourself.