How do I change my vehicle's battery

Most people can change their own car battery. The most difficult part of changing your batter will be lifting it out of the vehicle once you have disconnected the battery terminals, primarily because it weighs so much. By following these simple steps, you will be able to change your own battery no matter where you are.

In order to change your battery you will need battery cleaning solution, anti-corrosion solution, a socket and ratchet, a combination wrench, a wire brush, a new battery, and a screwdriver.

1) Turn off your engine, lift the hood, and locate the battery. Take off the negative (black) battery cable first by loosening the connecting nut with a wrench. Twist and pull the battery cable off of the battery with upwards motion or pry it up with a tool or screwdriver if it is stuck.

2) Repeat this same method with the positive (red) cable.

3) Use a socket and ratchet or a combination wrench to remove the hold-down clamp on the battery, if one exists.

4) Remove the battery from the battery tray. Remember, batteries are very heavy, so hold onto the bottom with both hands. Set it down on the ground to ensure your safety and the safety of your vehicle.

5) Use a wire brush and water to clean away any corrosion from the hold-down clamp and the battery tray. Clean the battery cable connectors with the wire brush as well, but without the water or other liquid. If the connectors have heavy corrosion, you may use a special battery-cleaning solution that is available at most auto-parts stores.

6) Place a new battery in the battery tray and secure it with the hold-down clamp. Re-attach and tighten down the positive (red) battery cable first, then the negative. You may choose to spray the terminal ends with an optional anti-corrosion solution, which will prevent most corrosion collections. Check that the connection is tight, because if the cables move at all, the vehicle may not start.

Most car batteries have at least a 60-month warranty. If it fails within that time period, you can get it replaced for free.