Car batteries don't last forever. If you notice your lights dimming, if the car doesn't start, or it's been 3-7 years since you last changed the battery, it might be time to do it. You can take your car to your trusted mechanic, or you can do it yourself. Changing the battery is quick and easy for most cars, and can be done with limited equipment.
Steps
Method 1 of 5: Need a New Battery?
Step 1. Make sure the battery needs to be changed
If you don't want to spend time and money installing a new battery, check that the old one really needs to be replaced. Take these three aspects into consideration:
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Check for sulfate build-up, which occurs in the form of a whitish or blue residue around the terminals - removing it can solve the problems of a malfunctioning battery. Note: Do not touch this powder with your bare hands, as it can often contain dry sulfuric acid which will corrode your skin.
Change a Car Battery Step 1Bullet1 - Check if the battery charges normally after thirty minutes of constant driving (with electricity consumption reduced to a minimum, including air conditioning).
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Finally, you should check the alternator. Some cars have a battery voltage indicator. With the engine running, the alternator should hold a charge close to 13.8-14.2 volts. The battery should guarantee a voltage of 12, 4-12, 8 volts with the engine off and without any electrical devices on. THE
Change a Car Battery Step 1Bullet2
Step 2. Buy the right spare battery
Find out the type of battery you are replacing (or its size) and go to an auto parts store in your area with this information and the model, displacement and make of your car. This is important, because car batteries are of different size and amperage and you will need to buy a battery that is able to power your vehicle and can be installed.
Method 2 of 5: 3 Things to Do Before Removing the Battery
Step 1. Number 1:
Make sure you work in a safe area. Park in a flat, equal area at a safe distance from traffic, sparks and open flames. Pull the handbrake. Do not smoke, and do not allow anyone to smoke in the area where you will work. Remember that electricity isn't the only danger; batteries contain an electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid, which is very corrosive and produces a flammable gas. Put on gloves and safety glasses.
Step 2. Number 2:
Make a note of all the PINs of your electronic devices before you begin. Check your car's manual to see which devices can be affected.
Step 3. Number 3:
After opening the hood, use the bracket to keep it open (many modern cars have hoods that stay open automatically)
Method 3 of 5: Remove the Old Battery
Step 1. Find the battery
The battery should be in an accessible place. It comes in a rectangular box with two connected cables. Some European cars, particularly BMWs, have the battery under the trunk mat, others, like some Chryslers, have the battery inside the wheel arch. In the second case it will not be easy to remove it.
Step 2. Identify the battery terminals
Find the positive and negative terminals of the old battery. The positive terminal will show the + sign and the negative one the - sign.
Step 3. Disconnect the negative terminal
Loosen the clamp of the negative cable with a wrench (8 or 10mm) and detach it from the terminal. If the wires aren't marked, do so now, to make sure you don't get them confused (you risk breaking the car's electrical system otherwise). Is very important disconnect the negative cable first. Otherwise, you risk causing a short circuit between the positive pole and a grounded part of the car.
Step 4. Disconnect the positive terminal
Step 5. Remove the car battery
Remove the screws, bars, or pliers that hold the battery in place. Carefully lift the battery and move it away from the car. Remember that a battery can weigh between 13 and 30 pounds, so if you have back problems, get help.
Method 4 of 5: Insert the New Battery
Step 1. Clean the terminal clamps and battery housing
You can use a brush and baking soda solution. If you notice any corrosion, consider having that component replaced by the mechanic. Otherwise, let the area dry before the next step.
Step 2. Replace the battery
Insert the new battery in place of the old one, making sure the poles are in the right position. Replace the screws, clamps, or bars that you removed in the previous step.
Step 3. Connect the positive terminal
'Tighten the pliers using a wrench.
Step 4. Connect Negative Terminal - Tighten the pliers using a wrench
Step 5. Apply lithium grease
Spray lithium grease on the terminals to prevent corrosion.
Step 6. Close the hood
Start the car after closing the hood firmly. Check that all electronic devices are working properly.
Method 5 of 5: Properly Recycle the Old Battery
Step 1. Take the battery to a mechanic, auto shop or recycling center
You may have to pay for this service, but you can't throw out the battery like you would regular trash.
Advice
- If the horn sounds when you insert the battery, try inserting the key and turning it, to let the alarm know that you are not trying to steal the car.
- Many electricians will be able to test the charging system of your car and your battery and will tell you if any components need to be replaced.
- Some large vehicles may have more than one battery, in some cases located in different locations.
- Some cars have a battery under the rear seats.
Warnings
- Do not turn the battery over and do not put it on its side.
- If you wear rings, remove or cover them with electrical tape or latex gloves before working on an electrical system. Even a dead battery can generate enough current to melt a gold ring, causing you serious injury.
- Never connect the two battery terminals together.
- Do not leave any metal objects on the battery, as this could create a short circuit between the two terminals.
- Do not spray lithium grease on any part of the motor other than the two battery terminals.
- Do not bring the used battery close to your clothes. If this happens, after two or three washes, holes will appear in the clothes due to the acid. To be safe, wear an apron and some old clothes to throw away.
- Always wear gloves and eye protection.
