Car Battery Replacement: How to Know When and How to Replace Your Battery
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Are you having trouble starting your car or using jumper cables in the grocery store parking lot just to get home? If you answered yes to either of those questions, it may be time to replace your car’s battery. But don’t worry — finding and installing a replacement car battery may be easier than you think.
This guide to car battery replacements explains the signs of a dead battery, the types of car batteries, and how to replace a battery yourself.
Introduction to Car Batteries
Car batteries create the electricity needed to power a vehicle’s electrical components. Batteries make it possible to start your engine, power your lights and windshield wipers, listen to the radio, and even protect your car’s computer system from power surges.
There are many battery types, and they vary in materials, size, capacity, and more. They may also have varying costs, maintenance requirements, or replacement processes.
Importance of a Reliable Battery
A reliable car battery is crucial to having a reliable car. Without the battery, you might have issues with your engine or other electrical components, like air conditioning, navigation systems, or headlights.
A quality battery maintains a steady electrical current to keep your car running smoothly so you can rely on your car’s functionality and comfort.
Common Signs of a Dead Battery
Watch for the following signs of a dead car battery:
- Dashboard battery warning light or check engine light
- Dimming headlights
- Electrical issues, such as radio cutting in and out or power windows not working properly
- Slow engine cranking, taking longer to start your car, or engine stalling
- Sulfuric odor (like rotten eggs)
Understanding Car Battery Components
Some of the main components of a car battery include:
- Battery plates: Positive and negative plates, typically made of lead
- Battery acid: Made of water and sulfuric acid, allows an electric charge to run between the battery plates
- Battery separator: A material that separates the battery plates
- Positive and negative terminals: Connects the battery to your car
- Cast-on straps: Connects the battery plates to the terminals
- Battery case: Holds the battery plates, battery acid, and cast-on straps; designed to minimize vibrations
Types of Car Batteries
There are four main types of car batteries:
- Lead-acid batteries are the most common type of battery. Flooded lead-acid batteries use a battery acid that needs regular maintenance, while sealed lead-acid batteries don’t require maintenance and are leak-proof.
- Absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries use fiberglass mats to absorb the electrolyte that enables the flow of electricity. They're more resistant to vibrations, provide higher starting power, and have longer lifespans.
- Lithium-ion batteries are primarily used in electric vehicles. They offer more energy storage and are highly efficient. While they are more expensive, they typically have longer lifespans.
- Gel cell batteries are similar to lead-acid batteries, but the battery acid is gelled to reduce leaks. They are good for vehicles that are regularly in extreme temperatures, but they have a lower energy output than AGM batteries.
Typical Lifespan of a Car Battery
A typical battery lifespan is between three and five years. However, several factors can affect this. Some battery types are known to last longer than others, and batteries are expected to last longer for drivers who keep up with routine vehicle maintenance.
Your battery can also be affected by where you live and your driving habits. If you live in a colder climate, your battery lifespan may be reduced. Shorter travel times also cut down on the amount of time your alternator has to recharge your battery while driving.
How To Replace a Car Battery
Start by gathering your materials. You'll need a:
- Wrench
- Ratchet set
- Wire brush
- Terminal grease
- Gloves
- Goggles
To complete the task safely, park on a flat surface, turn off the car, and allow the engine to cool.
Begin by disconnecting the current battery. Disconnect the negative terminal first (look for a black cable and/or minus symbol). Use a ratchet to loosen the clamp or fastener and move the cable aside. Disconnect the positive terminal (a red cable and/or plus symbol) with a ratchet.
After disconnecting the battery terminals, look for bars or clamps holding the battery in place. Use a ratchet or wrench to remove any bolts and carefully lift the battery out. You can dispose of the battery at an auto parts store or recycling center.
Use the wire brush to clean the cables and terminals, and apply terminal grease to prevent corrosion. Then, place the replacement battery in the car and resecure the restraints. Connect the positive terminal and secure the cable. Finally, connect the negative terminal and secure the cable.
Maintaining Vehicle Battery Health
Here are a few tips to prolong the life of your car battery:
- Keep the battery warm enough to avoid slow chemical reactions.
- Drive your car regularly to help keep the battery running.
- Avoid short trips that use unnecessary energy just to start the car.
- Avoid any extreme temperatures that can reduce the battery’s lifespan.
Get Covered: Compare Car Insurance Quotes
Now that you’ve installed the new battery replacement for your car, make sure it's covered in other incidents. Auto insurance can protect your car from damage in collisions and other scenarios. Use EverQuote’s free online quote comparison tool to learn about custom options in your area.