How to disconnect a car battery : Step by step guide
Automotive batteries can’t last forever, even if you’re properly taken care of. While you notice dimmed headlights and need a jump-start for a dead battery, it’s the right time to replace it.
Installing a car battery at home can reduce your car’s maintenance costs. The whole process just takes 30 minutes to complete.
So why wait? Let’s move into this article about how to disconnect a car battery.
When should I change the car battery?
As I’ve already told you, when the light gets dimmed and you need to jumpstart; but instead of those reasons, we have some more reasons and advice to be acknowledged.
First, you must replace your car batteries every 2 to 3 years because old batteries have presented a number of safety and reliability issues.
Then, take note of its operating conditions. If the temperature of the battery exceeds 200 degrees Fahrenheit, the battery situation will get worse. Therefore, automakers should install a heat shield around the battery and relocate the battery outside of the engine compartment.
Next, if you feel a vibration, it’s the last stage of battery life. To minimize its vibration effects, secure your special hardware and prevent it from moving about.
Currently, a malfunctioning charging system will also reduce battery life. Battery aging is accelerated by frequent under- and overcharging. So you must take into account all these factors so you can change or repair them on time.
What tools do you need to change a car battery
You will require some given tools to change a car battery. These are-
- An adjustable wrench,
- A crescent wrench,
- A vise pliers, and
- A socket wrench
Those tools are needed for loosening the bolts on the battery terminal, removing the battery bracket, and cleaning the terminals.
How to change a car battery: Step by step guide
A faulty car battery will not be able to power your vehicle. We’ve included a step-by-step tutorial that may assist you in resolving this issue.
Locate the vehicle’s battery
The majority of automobile batteries are located under the hood in the front, mounted on a metal or plastic tray. The battery may be in the trunk of some vehicles. Make sure the engine has cooled down before looking for the battery.
Find the battery terminals and unplug them
Batteries have two terminals where the cables are attached. A negative one (black) and a positive one (red) will be present. Additionally, positive and negative terminals can be identified by + and – markings.
The negative cable should always be cut off first. Use a wrench to loosen the bolt holding the negative connector to the battery terminal. Make sure you wear safety goggles and work gloves. Once freed, carefully lift the cable connector off the battery terminal while gently twisting it back and forth.
You might also like: During Car Battery Which Terminal to Connect First?
After that, disconnect the positive cable. The bolt holding the cable to the battery terminal in place can be loosened using the wrench. When the cable connector is unfastened, gently twist it back and forth while lifting it up to remove it.
Take out the outdated battery
Batteries are kept in place by a metal bar or a metal clamp at the base. Loosen the bolt that holds the holding bar or clamp in place so you can take the battery out of the automobile. Because batteries contain corrosive liquid, keep them straight at all times.
Clean the terminal connectors and battery tray
It’s a great time to give terminal connectors a thorough cleaning because they corrode over time.
Clean the connections and battery tray using a battery cleaner and a wire brush. You may also make a baking soda paste by combining two teaspoons of baking soda with a teaspoon of water. Clean the insides of the connections with steel wool, then thoroughly dry everything.
Check the wires and connectors to verify that they are not broken or torn.
Replace the battery and secure it
Check that the new battery’s location fits between the red and black terminals. Insert the new battery into the vehicle and place it on the mounting shelf. Reconnect the clamp or hold-down bar and secure it with a bolt.
Consider applying protective felt washers or battery anti-corrosive protection gel on both terminals before attaching them.
When installing a new battery, always connect the positive cable first. Check that the connection is well placed on the terminal. Secure the bolt. Repeat the process for connecting the negative connection to the negative terminal.
Close the hood, then, start the car
Normally, brand-new auto batteries are fully charged and ready to go.
I’m sure while you take out the outdated battery , it must be thrown away in the trash. I’ve got a wonderful suggestion for you that you can return it to the seller of a new battery , even get a refund charge. Even batteries emit toxic gasses or can leak, so proper disposal is required. So don’t throw it in the trash instead of selling it to your local auto repair store, so that they can recycle it.
What to do after changing car battery
After installing a car battery, drive the vehicle for around 30 minutes to allow the alternator to fully charge the battery.
Typically, a replacement battery resets the vehicle’s computer and radio. This may necessitate a reset of your radio settings. So you must fix it in an appropriate way.
On a final note,
Following the simple guidelines outlined above will allow you to replace your battery yourself without having to pay exorbitant fees at an auto repair shop. Keeping this in mind, always take the essential safety precautions during the procedure. Now, you are no longer concerned with how to disconnect a car battery. If you ever get stuck anywhere, following those procedures might get you out of the issue . Remember to keep checking your car batteries before moving with the car. Happy learning!
