How to replace your car battery
Most batteries last 3–5 years. Slow cranking, dim lights or a battery warning light mean it's time to test yours (parts stores do it for free).
15–30 minutesModerateSaves $50–100 vs. a shop
What you need
- The correct battery group size for your car
- Wrenches (often 10 mm and 13 mm)
- Gloves and eye protection
- A terminal brush
Steps
- Turn the car off and remove the key. Note the battery's position and which terminal is positive (+).
- Disconnect the negative (–) cable first, then the positive (+).
- Remove the hold-down bracket and lift the battery out (it's heavy; lift with your legs).
- Clean the cable ends with the terminal brush, drop in the new battery the same way, and reinstall the hold-down.
- Connect the positive (+) cable first, then the negative (–). Tighten both so they can't twist.
- Take the old battery back to the store: they recycle it and usually refund a core charge.
Tips: Many newer BMW, Mercedes, Audi and VW models need the new battery registered with a scan tool. Use a shop or dealer if so.
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