How to Change Your Car Battery: A Step-by-Step Guide
In the last blog, we mentioned how to choose the right battery, and in this blog, we will tell you how to do the “car battery replacement” after purchasing the battery.
Replacing a car battery is a straightforward process that can save you time and money. This guide will help you through the process safely and efficiently, incorporating expert advice and best practices from industry sources.
Tip: This Guide is Only for SLA AGM Car Battery Installation
You can also refer to this video: UPLUS BCI Group 48 Car Battery Review by Shane L. Bernier:
Tools You Need (AGM Car Battery Replacement)
🔋 New car battery – Ensure it matches your own car specifications. 🔧 Wrench set – To loosen and tighten battery terminals.
❄️ Dielectric grease (optional for AGM batteries) – Prevents moisture and enhances conductivity.
🧼 Cleaning towels and cleaning detergents - To clean the connects.
🧤 Gloves & safety goggles – For your safety.
Step by Step Analysis of Battery Replacement
Step 1: Park Safely & Turn Off the Car
- Park on a flat surface and turn off the engine.
- Engage the parking brake for added safety.
Step 2: Open the hood and locate the battery
Step 3: Disconnect the Old Battery
First, locate the negative (-) terminal, typically marked in black, and the positive (+) terminal, usually red. Then, using a wrench, loosen the bolt on the negative terminal first and carefully remove the cable. Move it safely out of the way to avoid accidental contact. Next, loosen and remove the positive cable from the red terminal.
Unfasten the battery hold-down clamp, which secures the battery in place. Inspect the terminals for corrosion. If buildup is present, clean the terminals using a battery terminal cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water for standard batteries. For AGM batteries, simply wipe with a dry cloth.
🔴 Warning 1: Always disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent electrical shorts!
🔴 Warning 2: Never allow anything, like a wrench or any piece of metal, to touch both the negative and postive terminals of the battery at the same time. this is dangerous and can cause sparks or the battery to explode.
Step 4: Remove the Old Battery
To safely remove a top-post battery that's secured with a clamp or bar, first loosen the bolt or fastener holding the clamp in place using an appropriate tool like a wrench or screwdriver. Once the securing mechanism is fully loosened, carefully remove the clamp or bar from around the battery. With both hands, firmly grasp the sides of the battery and gently pull it outward from under the hood, being mindful of its weight.
Step 5: Clean the Connectors
Clean the connectors before installing the battery.
Step 6: Install the New Battery
Place the new battery in the tray – Ensure it sits securely.
Step 7: Connect the Cables
- Connect the cables back to the terminal:
- Attach the positive (+) cable first and tighten.
- Attach the negative (-) cable second and tighten.
🔴 Do not over-tighten the cables.
- Secure the battery hold-down clamp to help it guard against vibration while driving.
Step 8: Test Your New Car Battery
Once both cables are securely connected, attempt to start the vehicle. If the engine turns over and runs smoothly, the process is complete. If the vehicle fails to start, pause for a few minutes to allow the battery and electrical system to stabilize. Recheck all cable connections for tightness, then make one additional attempt. To avoid straining the battery or electrical components, limit starting attempts to no more than three within a ten-minute window. If the vehicle still doesn’t start, further troubleshooting or professional assistance may be required.
Any way, if you don't find the right battery, check out this battery finder>>
