There are few worse feelings than turning the ignition of your car only to find that nothing happens. If this has happened to you, especially if you’re running late for work, then you’ll know the panic of trying to find a friend or neighbor who can jump-start you at record speed. If you are a DIY enthusiast, then knowing how to install a car battery is right up your alley.

How to Install a Car Battery

Car battery installation is a quick project as long as you’ve gathered all your materials in advance. Here’s how to install a car battery.

What You’ll Need:

• Adjustable/ combination wrench or battery wrench
• New battery
• Gloves – optional
• Battery cleaning solution or baking soda – optional but recommended
• Anti-corrosion solution – optional but recommended
• Wire brush – optional
• Blanket or towel – optional

How to Install a Car Battery

1. Turn off your car. Place a blanket or towel over the fender to protect the paint from any accidental battery acid spills.
2. Detach all the cables connected to the battery, starting with the negative battery cable. This cable is usually black.
3. Loosen the clamps that secure the battery to the vehicle using an adjustable or battery wrench.
4. Remove the battery from the battery tray. Car batteries are usually pretty heavy, so grab from the bottom to ensure a firm grip.
5. Clean the battery tray using battery cleaning solution or a combination of baking soda and water. By removing the corrosion now, you’ll save yourself the headache of having to replace a damaged battery tray later.
6. If needed, clean the cable connectors using a wire brush. If there is heavy corrosion on these connectors, use some battery cleaning solution to finish the cleaning process.
7. Install the new battery by placing it into the tray and securing it with hold-down clamps. If you have anti-corrosion solution on hand, now is a great time to spray the connective terminals.
8. Attach the cables to the battery, starting with the positive battery cable. This cable is usually red.
9. Make sure that everything is tightened and secure by trying to wiggle the battery back and forth. If you can move the battery on the tray, then keep tightening the clamps. If your battery doesn’t move, then you’re good to go.
10. You are done! Start your car and brag to your friends that you now know how to install a car battery.

How Long do Car Batteries Last?

Believe it or not, there isn’t an exact amount of time that car batteries last. Several factors, including where you live and what kind of driving you do, influence the longevity of your car battery. By and large, though, you can expect the following:

• In colder climates, most batteries tend to last 3 – 4 years.
• In warmer climates, most car batteries usually last 4 – 5 years.

If you’ve got a battery that is reaching the end of its life, it may be a good idea to replace the battery before it gives out unexpectedly. Not sure how much charge is left in your battery? Your local auto parts store should be able to test the charge for you.

Troubleshooting Electrical Problems at T3 Atlanta

If your car doesn’t start after installing a new battery, or if the battery wears out too quickly after installation, then the problem may be in the electrical system. That’s when it’s time to bring your car to T3 Atlanta. Our Smyrna and Decatur locations are easily accessible to the metro Atlanta area for your convenience. Give us a call today!