How to Change a Car Battery
- 1). Buy a replacement battery for your car. You must know the dimensions of your battery and the make and model of your car to make the correct purchase. Car batteries come in different sizes and ampere hour ratings. You want the replacement battery to match the original battery as closely as possible.
- 2). Open the hood of your car, using the prop rod to hold it in place. Locate the car battery and loosen the bolt that holds the negative battery terminal. Slide the clamp off of the negative terminal. Remove the positive battery terminal the same way.
- 3). Unscrew the battery hold down clamp. Lift the battery and remove it from the car. Inspect the battery terminal clamps. Clean and replace them if necessary.
- 4). Clean the battery tray, using plenty of fresh water or a mixture of baking soda and water. Wait for the terminal clamps and the battery tray to dry before installing the new battery.
- 5). Place the new battery into the battery tray. Be sure that the positive and negative terminals are on the correct sides.
- 6). Connect the battery clamps. Reconnect and tighten the terminal clamps. Tighten the positive clamp first, and then the negative clamp. Release the prop rod and close the hood of your car securely.
- 7). Dispose of the old battery properly. Car batteries contain highly toxic material and can not be thrown out with your garbage. You can dispose car batteries at automotive service garages, auto supply stores or recycling centers. There may be a charge for the disposal.
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