Garage
March-April issue l 2022
How to swap out a car battery yourself
C
hanging a car battery at home is an easy way to save cash on car maintenance. You can buy your new battery anywhere, including online, and install it yourself instead of paying high garage or service center prices. Car batteries typically cost between $50 and $200 depending on your vehicle. Once you have the battery, the process typically takes 30 minutes to complete. Important: Always consult with your owner’s manual to confirm the exact battery location and the specifications for a replacement.
starter motor crank slowly, struggle or hesitate? These are signs the battery needs to be checked. Dim headlights. Dim headlights when the car is off can be a sign of a bad battery. Dim headlights when a car is running can be a sign of a bad alternator. Battery or charging system warning lights appear. Some cars have warning lights that tell you the battery is dead or about to die. Battery has cracks or leaks. If your battery has any cracks, leaks or damage, it should be replaced immediately.
How to be sure a car battery needs to be replaced
An inexpensive electronic device called a multimeter can be used to measure the voltage of the battery. This can help determine whether it needs replacement.
When your car won’t start, there are several electrical issues that could be the problem. Jumpstarting the car can give you enough charge to get you where you need to go, but it can also mask electrical problems that drain your battery, regardless if it’s old or new.
Quick tip: It’s always smart to check your roadside assistance plan offerings. For example, AAA tow trucks carry a battery tester, while some plans offer free battery testing.
You need to test the battery before replacing it. There are other causes of a no-start or a dead battery, including problems with the alternator, a short circuit or other electrical issue. If these are not addressed, the new battery will run down and the car will not start again.
• • •
In general, car batteries typically last about 3 to 4 years. Factors like heat, heavy use, and unsecured battery hold-downs can all impact how long a battery lasts.
Signs of bad battery include: Zero response when you turn the key. When nothing happens and there are no warning lights on the dashboard when you turn the key, that means the car has a dead battery. Starter cranks slower than normal. When you turn the key, does the
36
Africa Automotive News l 2022
What you need
• •
Replacement battery Eye protection and protective work gloves Ratchet and socket, wrench and locking pliers. Common sizes for battery terminal and connector bolts are 5/16” (10mm) and ½” (13mm) Wire brush and steel wool Battery cleaner spray and battery anti-corrosive gel
Step 1: Find the car battery Put the car in park, turn it off, and remove the key. Before you locate the battery, make sure the engine has cooled down. Most car batteries are in the front, mounted on a plastic or metal tray, under the hood. Some cars have the battery in the trunk.
