Changing a vehicle battery at home is a simple way to reduce auto maintenance costs. You can buy a new battery anywhere, even online, and install it yourself rather than paying expensive garage or service centre rates. Once you have the batteries, the process usually takes 30 minutes to complete. Read on to learn how to install battery in car.
How To Install Battery In a Car: Step By Step Guide
Some common tools you’ll need to install a new car battery are as follows:
- Your new replacement battery
- Eye protection and protective work gloves
- Ratchet and socket set (common sizes: 10mm and 13mm)
- Wire brush and steel wool
Step 1: Preparedness and Safety First
Pull your car into a flat place, turn off the engine, and let it cool down. Most batteries are in cars' hoods. If not, it will be in the trunk. The owner's manual states the exact location.
Step 2: Disconnecting the Old Battery
Always begin with the negative (black) terminal first. Remove the plastic coverings, then release the bolt, locking the negative cable. Once free, gently twist and remove the connection away. Repeat the technique for the positive (red) terminal.
- Pro tip: Snap a quick snapshot using your phone to recall the connection setup.
Step 3: Removing the Old Battery
Look for the hold-down clamp or bar that holds the battery to the tray. Remove the fastening mechanism, then gently remove the old battery while keeping it upright to prevent acid leaking.
Step 4: Preparing for the New Battery
It is better to clean the battery tray and terminals before installing the new battery. Use your battery cleaner and a wire brush to remove rust from the connections and tray. Steel wool is ideal for cleaning the connections. Make sure that everything is completely dry before beginning.
Step 5: Installing a New Battery
Lower the new battery into position and ensure the negative and positive terminals align correctly with their corresponding cables. Secure it with a hold-down clamp or bar before connecting the terminals.
Step 6: Connecting the New Battery
The order of connecting the cables is important with the new battery as well. This time, you start in the opposite order. First, connect and tighten the positive (red) cable, followed by the negative (black) cable. Ensure both connections are secure, but avoid overtightening.
Conclusion
Changing a battery can be a do-it-yourself project, but if you're uncomfortable with the process, most auto parts stores offer installation free of charge when you purchase a battery. Always prioritise safety when working with automotive batteries.
Carefully following these instructions will enable you to install a new car battery and reduce maintenance expenses. Remember to wear appropriate protective gear, disconnect and reconnect cables in the correct order, and dispose of the old battery properly.
Although replacing a car battery is a common maintenance task, proper vehicle upkeep can have a long-term positive impact on your car insurance. Some car insurance companies even offer roadside assistance packages that include battery replacement services.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.