How to Avoid Common Mistakes When Installing a New Car Battery

Reeling in a new car battery is no easy task, but with a little bit of knowledge at your fingertips, you can avoid mistakes and install it right. Ensure you follow through with the steps to make sure the new battery actually works and you stay safe while installing it.

Step 1: Disconnect the Old Battery Properly

Before you are able to install a new battery, you have to remove the old one. The first thing you should do is switch off your car's engine and pop open the hood. Locate the battery; it’s typically a large boxy item near the front of the engine. Before you do anything else, put on gloves and safety goggles to shield yourself from it.

Next, you will need to use your wrench to unscrew the bolts that secure the battery cables. Begin with the negative cable (usually black), followed by the positive cable (usually red). When you do this, be very certain that the metal thingy on the wrench (don’t ask me what it’s called, I have no idea) doesn’t touch other metal parts of the car, as this could cause a short circuit.

After you've removed the cables, carefully pull out the old battery. Carry it by the handles on the sides, not by the terminals on top.

Step 2: Inspect the New Battery Size

Before installing the new battery, make sure it’s the right fit for your car. The new battery should press fit inside of the battery tray with the posts in the proper orientation. If a battery is too large or too small, it may damage your car’s electrical system.

Gently set the new battery in the battery compartment, ensuring that the terminals match up. After the battery is in place, use the wrench to secure the bolts on the battery cables. The positive cable first and then the negative cable. Tighten these screws down so they’re snug but not particularly tight.

Step 3: With Caution of Tightening

When the time comes to tighten the bolts on the battery cables, do not go crazy. If the cables are too short, you may cause harm to the car battery terminals or cables. Tighten bolts until snug but no more.

Step 4: Use Protective Gear

Wear gloves and safety goggles when you install the automotive battery. Batteries contain acid that is not good for your skin or eyes to touch. Put on gloves and goggles and you can be safe when working on a car.

Step 5: Test the New Battery 

Once the new battery is installed, the cables are connected and it is time to test the battery. Turn on your car and let it run for a few minutes to ensure your batteries car batteries has power. If the car starts easily and the lights come on, then the new battery is fine.