Car Repair<

How to Install an Automobile Battery

Automobile batteries only last so long, and it can be difficult to know when the battery is going to go. The newer the vehicle, the more complicated the task could potentially become. They're still automobile batteries, but computers and all kinds of fancy gadgetry now rely on the battery to keep information stored in the computer of the vehicle. Most battery replacements follow the same procedures as the older cars and with a couple of extra devices, changing the battery in a vehicle is just as easy as it used to be. Sometimes finding the battery in a newer vehicle is the hardest part. Determine where the battery is located and if you have the right tools before you start. Most cars still have the battery located in the motor cavity.



Difficulty: ModerateInstructionsThings You'll Need:
  • Battery saver deviceAssortment of hand wrenches 3/8 inch ratchet, extension and a socket set.Battery terminal cleaner toolBattery terminal protectant spray
  1. Step 1

    Insert a battery saver device into power source (cigarette lighter) of vehicle. There are different types of battery savers. Some require to be hooked up to an automotive battery, some take a 9 volt battery plugged directly into it. Depending on the vehicle type you have, you want to make sure the battery saver device is working properly. For example, if you own a Honda and remove the battery terminals from the battery without a battery saver device, you erase the vehicle's radio code and your radio will not work until reprogrammed at the dealership. To obtain most radio codes, the radio will need to be extracted from the dash, which will incur an expensive labor charge. Battery savers also may restore clocks and essential computer chips that if erased will need to relearn and may effect the performance of the vehicle until they do.

  2. Step 2

    Locate the battery. If you do not see it inside the motor cavity, refer to your owner's manual.

  3. Step 3

    Remove the hold down device on the battery using the ratchet, sockets and extension.

  4. Step 4

    Remove the negative terminal of the battery first. Use a hand wrench or ratchet and socket. Remove the positive terminal. Again, use a hand wrench or ratchet and socket. Clean the terminal with terminal cleaning tool.

  5. Step 5

    Remove the old battery. Some batteries have strap handles on top, others you have to hold by the side to remove from the vehicle. Take precaution and hold firmly if a handle is not provided and try to avoid tipping the battery too much.

  6. Step 6

    Insert the new battery. Attach positive terminal first and tighten with the same tool you removed it with as tight as you can get it with the hand wrench or ratchet and socket, but do not over-tighten. Make sure you can not move the battery terminal by hand under duress. Attach negative terminal next and tighten properly with the same tool you removed it with.

  7. Step 7

    Spray terminal protectant onto the battery terminals to help prevent corrosion.

  8. Step 8

    Reinstall battery hold down using the ratchet, socket and extension. Test start vehicle and remove battery saver device.

Car Repair Talk's forum.



Pre：How to Change a Subaru Impreza Fuel Pump   Next：How to Tune-Up a 4 Cyl. Engine

  • How to Replace a Thermostat in a Lincoln Mark 8
  • How to Replace the Thermostat in a 1998 BMW 323IC
  • How to Change Motor Home Shocks
  • How to Install a New Steering Rack in a Chrysler Sebring
  • How to Replace a Blower Motor in a 1998 Buick Regal LS
  • How to Clear Clogged Windshield Washers
  • How to Remove the Windshield Reservoir
  • How to Replace the Throttle Body in a Mitsubishi 3000GT

    • Car Parts: Air Conditioning System / Body / Lighting and Signaling System

    OBD-Ⅱ Trouble Codes:OBD-Ⅱ Trouble Codes

    P0108 | P0135 | P0171 | P0174
     P0300 | P0320 | P0325
     P0401 | P0420 | P0430 | P0440 | P0441 | P0442 | P0455

    links:Car Logo / Autoi / Car Repair Talk's forum / Car Specifications

     
    powered by