How to fit a car battery
Car batteries can go flat, especially if your car has not been driven for an extended period of time. At National Tyres and Autocare, we offer free fitting on all car batteries and these batteries can be purchased by clicking on the related article link below.
Related: Car Batteries
We would always advise that you have your battery fitted at a National Tyres branch, to ensure the battery is fitted the correct way. If your car battery is completely flat, you may need to jump start the car. To find out how to jump start your car please click on the related article below.
Related: How to jump start a car
However, if you would prefer to change the car battery yourself, then in this article we will be explaining how you can do this.
Which car battery do I need for my car?
Different makes and models of car will require different specifications of car batteries. To find the correct battery for your vehicle, click on the link below and search by your vehicle registration to find out which car battery you need. Please note, we only offer fitting at a National Tyres branch and will not be able to send you the car battery by mail order.
Related: Find the correct battery
How to test a car battery?
You can test a car battery by using a multimeter. You purchase a digital multimeter for a relatively low price. This shouldn’t put you back any more than £20. Using the digital multimeter (the car battery tester), if you set the multimeter to 15-20 volts, connect it to the battery terminals (positive and negative) and turn off the lights, this should bring you back a reading. If the voltage reading is not around 12.6 volts, this may be a sign the battery is failing.
How to change a car battery
Safety note: It is recommended that you wear rubber gloves when fitting a new car battery.
Removing the old car battery
Step 1
The first thing to do here is to identify the negative terminal. This is the terminal with the minus sign. You then need to remove the negative cable from the negative terminal.
Step 2
Now you need to identify the positive terminal. This is the terminal with a plus sign. You will then need to remove the positive cable from the positive terminal. Please note, if you are using a wrench, it is very important to make sure that the metal does not make contact with the terminal.
Step 3
You now need to loosen the car battery. This can be done by holding down the connectors which are keeping the battery securely in place.
Step 4
You can now remove the car battery from its holding. Once the battery has been removed, please move this into a safe and secure place.
Fitting a new car battery
Step 1
Before you add a new battery, it is important to inspect the clamps and the battery terminals to see if they need cleaning. If you notice any corrosion or dirt, this can be cleaned with water and baking soda.
Step 2
Place the new car battery into the holding.
Step 3
Secure the battery in place and make sure that the connectors are secure. This is to make sure that the car battery is installed correctly.
Step 4
You now need to connect the battery. Connect the positive terminal to the positive cable.
Step 5
The next step required is to connect the negative terminal to the negative cable.
Step 6
You can now attempt to turn on your engine to see if the car starts.
As stated previously, at National Tyres and Autocare we offer free fitting on all car batteries, whether that be purchased online or in one of our 235+ branches nationwide. Due to the complexity of fitting a new car battery, we would also advise that you book in for an appointment if you think you need a new car battery.
To find out which car battery is suitable for your car, or to purchase a new battery and book an appointment, please click on the link below.
Related: Order a new car battery
You can also have your car battery fitted at a location of your choice with mobile battery fitting! We'll come to a location that suits you, whether that be at home or at work. To find out more and book a mobile battery fitting, click the button below.
Mobile Battery Fitting
Did you enjoy this blog post? |
5 people found this review helpful
Sign up for SPECIAL OFFERS
