How to Disconnect and Install a Car Battery

Every driver has started their new vehicle or used vehicle and has been met with a stalled engine. It may be time for a new battery. Although this may seem complicated, many Oak Park drivers find that they can do it themselves. Follow the guide provided by the friendly service team of Victory Toyota of Midtown in Chicago that will show you how to disconnect and install a car battery.

How to Disconnect and Install a Car Battery: The Process

A dead battery is the last thing you want to be met with on your commute to Elmwood Park from Lincoln Park. The guide below will help you get back on the road:

How to Remove the Old Battery

• Ensure that the car is in park mode, the parking brake is engaged, and the ignition is completely turned off.
• Find the car battery. If you’re having trouble finding it, look near the front of the engine compartment along either side.
• Detach the negative (-) cable from the battery and remove it. Be sure not to allow the wrench to touch the negative and positive terminals at the same time – this is very important!
• After the negative cable is removed, detach the positive (+) cable from the battery and remove it.
• Remove the bracket surrounding the battery (if there is one), then remove the battery itself.
• Recycle the battery, or take it to an authorized retailer for a refund. Take care not to throw it in the garbage or dumpster!

How to Install the New Battery

• Check for visible corrosion on the connectors for the positive and negative cables. If there is any, use a wire brush to clean them off.
• Put the new battery and bracket (again, only if there is one), in place.
• Connect the positive (+) cable first.
• Connect the negative (-) cable second. Be very careful to only connect them in this order — you don’t want an accidental electric shock.
• Test the new battery by turning on the engine. 

Check out Victory Toyota of Midtown in Chicago for all your service needs!

The guide above should get you back on the road, but issues can come up. Contact our experienced service team today with any additional questions or to schedule a service appointment!