Dead batteries are among the most frustrating things that can happen to anyone. You turn the key on, but nothing happens. The good thing is, you don’t always have to call a mechanic or sit waiting for help. Replacing a car battery is something that you can do by yourself.
Below, I’ll show you how to replace a car battery safely, when to get professional help, and how to make it last.
5 Safe and simple steps on how to replace a car battery yourself
A weak or dead battery can leave you helpless anywhere. But with a few tools and the proper steps, you can replace your car battery safely at home. Here is a step-by-step guide that will show you how to do it perfectly.
1) Knowing when to replace your car battery.
Before you get started, check whether your battery needs to be replaced. There are some warning signs that you can look out for.
It includes:
- The motor cranks or will not start.
- Dashboard lights flicker or dim.
- Almost no onboard electronics system (such as radio, automatic window, etc.) works.
- The battery case is swelling or is corroded.
If you regularly need a battery jump start, that’s a red flag. It indicates that your car battery is dying, and it’s time for a new battery.
2) Gather up the tools and get your safety gear on
There is acid and electricity involved in working with a car battery. That’s why safety is the first order of business. Here’s what you need:
- A fresh battery suitable for the make and model of your vehicle.
- Wrenches or socket set (8mm or 10mm in most cases).
- Gloves and safety glasses.
- Battery acid cleaning brush or baking soda blend.
- Anti-corrosion spray or petroleum jelly.
Quick tip: Before you buy, read your owner’s manual or call an auto parts store to make sure you’re getting the correct replacement car battery.
3) Uninstall the old battery
Here we will find out how to remove a car battery. Before you start, wear gloves and safety glasses. And if you have any metal jewelry on you, then you should remove it. Follow these steps carefully:
- First, park on a level surface, stop the engine, and apply the parking brake.
- Then open the hood and locate the battery.
- Now, identify the terminals: negative (–, usually black) and positive (+, usually red).
- First, remove the negative (-) cable. Loosen the terminal clamp and move it aside.
- After that, disconnect the positive (+) cable.
- Once you have done that, release the hold-down clamp on the battery.
- Finally, you should carefully lift the battery out. You need to lift the battery out using two hands, as it can be quite heavy.
Before you place the replacement battery, inspect the battery tray and hardware for corrosion, and then clean with a solution of baking soda and water. Clean the inside of the terminal clamps, and replace any damaged or worn-out hold-down parts. As for the old battery, you can recycle it at an auto parts store or a recycling center.
4) Install the new car battery
Now, it’s time for car battery installation. Usually, it takes less than 30 minutes to replace a car battery. Here is the process:
- Place the new or replacement car battery in the battery tray.
- Then, secure the battery with the help of the hold-down clamp.
- Now connect the positive (+) terminal clamp first, then the negative (–) terminal clamp; tighten them both.
- The fittings will be tight but not “tight-tight “. Be careful not to damage anything.
- Only after that, you should apply either an anti-corrosion spray or a petroleum jelly to the battery terminals and the outside of the terminal clamps to help prevent corrosion buildup.
5) Test your work
Start the car after installing the new battery. The engine should turn over faster, and the lights should appear brighter. Then take a 15–20 minute drive to let the alternator top up the battery if it wasn’t fully charged. If there are still issues with the car, then you should call for professional help.
When to call for help?
Although it is possible to replace a car battery at home, the process can be time-consuming. But if you’re stuck on the road or don’t feel confident, taking the help of a professional may be safer.
In that case, the iTOWu app can help you. It lets you request roadside assistance fast, whether you need a tow, a battery jump start or replacement, a tire change, or more.
Tips to make your new battery last longer
Your new battery will last longer and be more reliable if you maintain it properly. Follow these simple habits:
- Drive it regularly to keep the battery charged.
- Do not take too many short trips where the alternator doesn’t recharge.
- While the engine is off, don’t run your lights, radio, or phone charger.
- Keep the terminals clean and corrosion-free.
- Check connections every few months to loosen them.
- Battery life should be 3-5 years based on your driving conditions.
- Avoid car towing services or sudden breakdowns with good maintenance.
Last Say
It is always useful to know how to replace your own car battery. With some basic tools and a little patience, you can do it yourself at home. Always follow the safety instructions and connect the battery terminals in the correct order. If you haven’t done it before or are not quite confident, then it’s better to call a professional to do the job.