How to Change a Car Battery
Removing and installing a new car battery is a safe and accessible DIY automotive task most drivers can tackle on their own. It’s a great skill to learn that will help you avoid being stranded and save you money on towing or roadside assistance fees. Grab your work gloves and learn how to replace a car battery in just a few steps.
What You’ll Need and What You’ll Need to Know
You won’t need many tools to remove and install a car battery, but have these items handy before you start:
A wrench (adjustable will work, socket will work better!)
Work gloves
Safety glasses (just in case)
The right replacement battery
Not all car batteries are the same. You’ll need to source the right battery from a local automotive store based on the make, model, year and engine type of your vehicle.
Related: How to Jump a Car Safely
Removing a Car Battery
It’s time to pop the hood and remove the dead battery. Here’s how to get it done:
Open the hood and locate the battery.
Loosen the nut or bolt that holds the negative cable to the battery post and remove it from the post.
Loosen the nut or bolt that holds the positive cable to the battery post and remove the cable from the positive post.
Remove the retention system. In most vehicles, the battery is secured by a flat bar crossed over the top of the battery. This bar will have screws (usually wingnuts) holding it in place. Remove those wingnuts and the bar and place them close by, but don’t lose them!
Pull out the battery. Fair warning: it’s heavy.
It’s out! Now, it’s time to get the new battery in place.
Installing a Car Battery
Make sure the new battery is compatible with your car. Installing the wrong battery can cause severe damage to your vehicle’s computer system and sensors.
Install the new battery, making sure the red positive post is closest to the red positive cable.
Grab your retention system bar and bolts and tighten it down. Make sure the battery is secure; vibration and jostling may reduce the battery’s efficiency and, in rare cases, rattle the cables free of the battery.
Remove the plastic caps on the terminals to expose the metal posts. We recommend adding anti-corrosion washers and a thin layer of grease. Most batteries will come with an anti-corrosion kit.
Attach the positive cable to the positive post first. Tighten the connection until it’s secure.
Attach the negative cable to the negative post. Make sure this cable is also secure.
Now, check your work; start the engine!
How Often Should I Replace My Car Battery?
Most car batteries last 3-5 years. Certain variables, such as driving habits, weather conditions and electrical systems, may shorten the life of your car battery. Check your owner’s manual for more information.
Get Back on the Road with Garfield Auto
Being able to install your car battery and other DIY tasks empowers drivers to take better care of their vehicles. Make sure regular maintenance is a part of your game plan with fast, friendly service from Garfield Auto. Schedule your appointment today!