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1 How to Jump Start a BatteryThe most common temporary solution for a dead car battery is to recharge the battery using another one as a power source. The battery gets just enough power for a trip to the auto parts store. A car battery charger is designed for this purpose, but it is commonly done with jumper cables and a second car. Follow these steps for jump starting a car battery:
Tip: Check the vehicle owner's manual to guide you in choosing and buying a replacement battery. 2 Put the Vehicle in Park and Open the HoodYou’ve purchased a replacement battery. Now, follow the steps describing how to change a car battery. The first step is to make sure the vehicle is immobile.
3 Find the Battery and Identify Positive and Negative TerminalsOpen the vehicle’s hood to locate where the battery is. (Many foreign vehicles have the car battery in the trunk.) If you have difficulty locating the battery, consult the owner’s manual.
4 How to Disconnect the Car Battery TerminalsAlways remove the negative terminal first when changing a car battery.
5 How to Remove the Car BatteryUse a socket extension if needed to remove the clamp that holds the battery in place. There might be several clamps, so inspect the outside of the battery carefully.
6 How to Clean the Battery TerminalsCorrosion can damage the battery terminals over time. Greenish residue on the terminals indicates corrosion. Clean the terminals as part of the task of changing a car battery.
7 How to Install a New BatteryBefore you replace a car battery with the new one, remove the red and black plastic covers on the ends of the posts of the replacement.
8 How to Attach the Terminals to the Battery
Car batteries have very specific disposal requirements. Follow local laws and bring the dead battery to the appropriate location for recycling. Download The Home Depot Mobile App for a selection of all the tools you need to replace a car battery without delay. What happens if you disconnect the positive terminal first?It's important to disconnect the negative side of the battery first, otherwise you can cause an electrical short if the positive is removed first.
Which battery terminal should be disconnected first and why?Removal of Old Battery
Remove the negative (-) terminal first. This precaution is necessary to avoid damage to wiring and the battery by accidentally grounding tools. Remove the positive (+) terminal. Undo hold down clamp and remove the battery from the vehicle.
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