Electrical

How to Replace a Car Battery Safely

Slow cranking or clicking when you turn the key usually means a dying battery. Replace it in 15 minutes and avoid a tow.

Tools you'll need

1
Turn everything off
Park, turn off the ignition and all accessories, and remove the key. Wear eye protection.
2
Disconnect negative first
Loosen and remove the black negative (-) cable first, then the red positive (+) cable. This prevents accidental shorts.
3
Remove the hold-down and battery
Unbolt the battery clamp and lift the battery straight out, keeping it upright. Batteries are heavy, so lift with your legs.
4
Clean the terminals and tray
Scrub cable ends with a terminal brush until shiny. Clear any corrosion from the tray.
5
Install the new battery
Set the new battery in the same orientation and secure the hold-down. Connect positive (+) first, then negative (-), and tighten snugly.