Disconnecting and changing the car battery – How to do it right

Step-by-step: How to easily disconnect and replace the battery in your car

The car battery is the heart of your vehicle. Nothing runs without it – neither the engine nor the electronics. However, when the battery gives up the ghost, you are quickly faced with the question: Change the car battery yourself or take it to a specialist? The good news: With a little care and the right instructions, you can change your car battery yourself. In this blog post, you will learn everything you need to know, from the sequence for disconnecting the car battery to installing a new battery.

Why should you disconnect the car battery?

The car battery must be disconnected for various reasons – for example, if it is to be replaced or if electrical work is to be carried out on the vehicle. Disconnecting prevents short circuits and protects your car's electronics. It is important that you follow the correct sequence to avoid damage.

Safety first: What you should consider before changing the battery

Before you start changing the battery, there are a few important safety precautions:

1. Turn off the ignition: Make sure the ignition is off and no current is flowing.
2. Work safety: Wear gloves and safety goggles, as car batteries can contain acid.
3. Check the operating instructions: Check your car's owner's manual for specific instructions for your vehicle model.
4. Save radio codes: On some vehicles, you will need a code to reactivate the radio after disconnecting the battery.

Disconnect the car battery: The correct sequence

Always disconnect the car battery in a specific order to avoid sparks or damage:

1. Disconnect the negative pole first (-)
   • Loosen the terminal of the black negative terminal with a wrench and remove it carefully.
   • Why negative first? The negative terminal is connected to the body. If you were to disconnect the positive terminal first, contact with metal could cause a short circuit.
2. Then disconnect the positive pole (+)
   • Remove the red terminal of the positive pole.

💡 Tip: Fix the loose cables so that they do not accidentally get back to the terminals.

Changing the car battery: step-by-step instructions

If the battery is disconnected, you can simply replace it. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to change your car battery yourself:

1. Loosen the battery holder
   • Remove the screws or brackets that hold the battery in place.
   • Note how the battery is attached in order to install the new battery correctly.
2. Remove the old battery
   • Carefully lift out the battery. Caution: car batteries can be heavy depending on size and model.
3. Insert the new battery
   • Insert the new battery into the holder. Make sure that it is firmly seated and that the terminals are in the correct position (plus on plus, minus on minus).
4. Connect the cables in reverse order
   • First connect the positive pole (+) and tighten the clamp.
   • Then connect the negative pole (-).
5. Attach the holder
   • Attach the new battery to the holder again.
6. Carry out function test
   • Switch on the ignition and check that all systems are working (e.g. electronics, radio, lights).

What should you look out for when buying a new battery?

Not every battery fits every car. Here are a few points you should consider when buying:

• Voltage: Most vehicles use 12-volt batteries.
• Capacity (Ah): Choose a battery with the same or similar capacity as the old one (e.g. 60 Ah).
• Size and terminals: Make sure the battery fits in the holder and the terminals are in the right place.
• Brand and quality: Go for well-known brands to get a long-lasting and reliable battery.

Common mistakes when changing the car battery

Changing the car battery is easy, but mistakes are often made that can lead to problems:

1. Wrong order when disconnecting
   • Disconnecting plus first can cause a short circuit. Always minus first!
2. Connecting a new battery the wrong way round
   • Take care not to reverse the poles. Incorrect connection can damage the electronics.
3. Not attaching the battery correctly
   • A loose battery can slip when riding and damage the connections.
4. Fail to wear protective clothing
   • Battery acid can cause chemical burns. Therefore, always wear gloves and safety goggles.

When should you change the battery?

A car battery usually lasts 4-6 years, depending on use and maintenance. If your car shows the following symptoms, a change may be necessary:

• The engine starts with difficulty or not at all.
• The electronics only work to a limited extent (e.g. weak headlights).
• A warning lights up on the battery indicator.

What to do if changing the battery is too complicated?

Sometimes the installation location of the battery or special electronic systems are so complex that it is difficult to change the car battery yourself. In such cases, you can leave the replacement to a workshop.

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Conclusion: Change the car battery yourself or sell it?

Changing the car battery is not rocket science if you follow the correct sequence when disconnecting and connecting it. With a little care and the right tools, you can replace the battery yourself and breathe new life into your car.

But what if replacing the battery is no longer enough or the car is causing more and more problems? Whether your car is defective, has damage or has simply become old – you can sell it quickly and easily at CashforCars.de.

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• Free online vehicle valuation
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. In which order do I disconnect the car battery?
Always disconnect the negative pole (-) first and then the positive pole (+).

2. In which order do I connect the car battery?
Always connect the positive pole (+) first and then the negative pole (-).

3. Can I change the car battery myself?
Yes, with the right instructions and tools it is possible without any problems.

4. How much does it cost to replace a car battery in a garage?
Replacement costs between 100 and 300 euros, depending on the model and workshop.

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