How to replace and change a dead car battery

If your used model is getting up there in age, or if it’s been exposed to harsher weather than usual, you might notice that your battery power and performance is starting to diminish a bit. Though you can usually fix this problem with a simple jump, you might find that there are other times when your battery is totally dead, unable to keep a charge. When this happens, the next course of action you should take is to replace it completely, and we want to help you achieve this – join Carville’s Auto Mart today as we show you how to replace and change a dead car battery.  

Before we get started, be advised that whenever you’re working with batteries, you should make it a point to wear gloves and have eye protection handy. Though your battery may appear dead, there’s usually still some acid inside that can be hazardous if exposed to your skin. With this in mind, let’s get started!  

Steps for removing a dead car battery 

Every vehicle’s battery location is different, so to start, check your owner’s manual to find out where it is. Once you’ve got its whereabouts in mind, here’s how to remove it:  

1. Use a wrench to loosen up the negative terminal and its cable. Then use the terminal puller to remove the cable and terminal from the battery post – repeat this process for the positive terminal.  
2. There will be either a clamp or retainer that holds your battery in place. Remove it and set all parts and fasteners in a safe place so you don’t lose them.  
3. Carefully lift the battery out of its terminal, making sure that you’re not moving it around too much. (Also, don’t be surprised if it’s a bit heavier than you anticipated.) 

More Tips and Tricks: How to jump start a dead car battery

Steps for installing a new car battery  

Now that you’ve got your battery removed, it’s time to put your new one in. Keep reading below to find out how:  

1. First and foremost, give your battery terminals a quick examination to see if there’s any visible corrosion. If there is, you can clean them using a wire brush.  
2. Line up your new battery so that the red post matches up with its corresponding positive terminal and cable. Then, insert the new battery in its holster.  
3. Secure your battery with the clamps and retaining system that you removed earlier.  
4. There will be two plastic caps that cover your battery’s positive and negative terminal posts. Remove them and install the anti-corrosion washers over them.  
5. Apply a layer of grease or Vaseline to your posts and terminals, making sure that you’re taking care of the positive terminal first. This will be useful for preventing any corrosion down the line.  
6. Using your wrench, tighten your connector until it’s snug.  
7. Try to wiggle or jostle your battery. If it moves a bit, tighten your clamp. If it doesn’t, you’re done! 

Great job installing your new battery! Be sure to give our Carville’s Auto Mart team a call if we can help in any way.

Click here to read more about the auto protection services that we offer when you purchase a used vehicle from us!