7d • Step by Step Guides
Changing a Battery
Change a Vehicle Battery — Step-by-Step
Safety first: wear gloves and eye protection. Work in a well-ventilated area away from sparks or open flames. Have your vehicle manual handy.
Tools & items needed
- New battery (correct size and spec for your vehicle)
- Wrench or socket set (usually 10mm or 13mm)
- Battery cleaning brush / wire brush
- Baking soda + water (for corrosion) and rag
- Gloves & eye protection
- Multimeter (optional)
- Memory saver or note radio presets (optional)
1) Prepare & safety
- Park on level ground, set the parking brake, and turn the ignition off.
- Remove keys and any metal jewelry.
- Open the bonnet and locate the battery. If fitted in the trunk or under a seat, consult manual.
2) Locate battery & note orientation
- Note which terminal is positive (+, usually red) and negative (−, usually black).
- If terminals or posts are corroded, you can clean later — don’t mix cleaning and connection steps.
3) Disconnect cables — negative first
- Always disconnect the negative (−) terminal first to reduce short risk. Loosen the clamp nut and gently lift the cable off.
- Then disconnect the positive (+) terminal. Move cables clear so they don’t accidentally touch the battery posts.
4) Remove hold-down and lift out battery
- Remove any hold-down bracket or strap securing the battery. Keep nuts/bolts in a safe place.
- Batteries can be heavy (~12–25 kg). Lift straight up (use both hands) and place on a stable surface.
5) Install new battery — positive first
- Compare new battery to old for size and terminal placement. Clean cable clamps and battery tray if corroded.
- Place new battery in tray with same orientation. Secure hold-down bracket snugly (don’t overtighten).
- Connect positive (+) terminal first, then negative (−). Ensure clamps are tight and seated fully.
6) Tighten, test & reset systems
- Tighten clamps and any hold-down hardware. Recheck connections.
- Test voltage with a multimeter (should read ~12.6V at rest for a healthy battery). Start the car — it should crank normally.
- Reset clock, radio presets, and any electronic memory if required. Inspect for leaks or excessive corrosion.
Tips & troubleshooting
- If the car doesn’t start after a new battery, check battery charge (multimeter) and cable clamp condition. Corroded clamps may need replacement.
- If battery drains quickly, have the charging system (alternator) and parasitic draws checked.
- Dispose of the old battery at any auto parts store or recycling center — do not throw it in the trash.
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Changing a Battery
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