So, you have a flat car battery! We’ve all been in that position. Changing a car battery is a relatively simple and a quick job. But, first, let’s get to some of the car battery myths.
Your car battery is one of the most important part of your car as without a functioning car battery, you aren’t going anywhere. The car battery requires two other mechanical parts for it to power the engine and the electrical system (stereo, lights, heating, air con) within the car. 1. Alternator, it’s main job is to charge the car battery when the engine is running. 2. Starter Motor, draws energy from the charged battery when the car key is turned or start button is pushed and starts to turn over the engine, starting the ignition process.
You may have heard repeatedly, why does a car battery often break or die in the winter months? Well, the simple answer is, a standard 12V battery operates at its best efficiency at temperature of approximately 26.℃. Conversely, cold temperatures reduce the battery efficiency quite considerably as a result of chemical reactions, and added to the fact that a colder engine is harder to start it all means that dreaded moment where you turn your key and hear a sad, whining noise, if often on a cold morning when you’re late for work – However, there are known signs which indicates you need a new car battery.
So now, you might be thinking how can I avoid it failing? Car batteries usually have life span of around 3-5 years. Maintaining your car battery is very important and one of the best way is to drive daily to keep the charge level as high as possible. The other common ways to look after your car battery are checking the fluid level, some batteries have a ‘view hole’ allowing you to see a coloured indicator, stating the condition. Cleaning connectors on the battery terminal helps to ensure a clean contact, inspecting cell voltage using Battery and Alternator Tester gives you an indication of the battery health and regularly servicing the car keeps everything else in tip top condition.
How To Change A Car Battery – Step-by-step guide
If you are still wondering what car battery you need for your car, then you can find the correct battery by visiting Car Parts 4 Less Battery Finder Tool.
- Locate the negative (usually coloured black) and positive (usually coloured red) connections on battery terminal.
- Always disconnect the negative cable first by undoing the clamp nut.
- Next, do the same for the positive cable ensuring that end of exposed wires (in copper) doesn’t come in contact with each other or any metal, especially the engine bay. You can use electrical duct tape for an extra precaution to cover the ends.
- Remove the clamps or screws that are housing the battery. Then, lift out the battery carefully (keep it upright at all times as it is heavy). It’s also a good opportunity to clean the battery tray now if necessary.
- Install the new battery in its housing, making sure the negative and positive posts are in the same place as the old battery before tightening the housing clamps or screws.
- Don’t forget to remove any plastic protective covers from the new battery. Also, remember to remove electrical duct tape if you used it at the earlier stage.
- Finally, re-connect the positive cable first followed by the negative cable.
So, now you know how to fit a new battery – you should be good to drive. Always remember to dispose of your old battery in safe ways – either by taking it to your local recycling centre or local garage.
Important Notes: We recommend that you have your new car battery fitted by the approved professional. Ensure you are parked on a flat surface with handbrake engaged securely. Also, it goes without saying to use protective gloves for your safety as a leaking battery can cause harm. Finally, keep your PIN codes and car settings handy as you may need them after you have fitted your new car battery.
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