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How to Disconnect a Car Battery

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How to Disconnect a Car Battery

Disconnecting a car battery can seem like a simple task. Unfortunately, you can actually damage your car's electronics if you do it the wrong way. Here's how to do it properly


The car battery may be one of the most important components of the car as any problem with the battery might leave you stranded on the road.

The car battery has two main functions; it helps to start the car when you switch on the ignition and the other function is providing power to electrical systems in the car such as the stereo, lights, radio, etc.

Since you cannot start your car with a faulty battery, it is highly important to keep it Car Maintenance Tips properly.

The car battery terminals get corroded over time due to the hydrogen gas that is released from the acid in the battery. In such a case, you’ll be required to remove the battery and clean it thoroughly.

There are many other reasons why you would be required to disconnect the car battery, either for maintenance or service. Either way, it is recommended that you know the correct procedure. In this guide, we will discuss how you can correctly disconnect the car battery in a safe way.

Safety tips before disconnecting the battery

Here are some important safety tips you need to keep in mind before disconnecting the car battery.

  • Batteries store electric charge and might give you a small shock if not handled properly. Before disconnecting the battery, make sure you are not wearing any jewelry such as a ring, watch, or a bracelet. If the battery comes in contact with any metal part it can cause an electric shock.
  • Always carry out the battery removal procedure in an outdoor space as the batteries contain acids which release harmful gasses. Working in an open environment will minimize your exposure to any hazardous gas.
  • Make sure the area where you are working is completely dry and covered. Never work in an environment which is damp or has water nearby.
  • By removing the battery terminals, your settings in the clock or radio may get reset and you also may have to enter. If you do not have the radio code you may have to go to a dealership for them to unlock the code. You can add a small amount of power to the system while replacing the battery but is only recommended if you are a skilled mechanic because working with the electrics connected can be dangerous and you can damage electronics.

How to disconnect a car battery

There are some easy steps you should take to disconnect your car battery from your car. Here are 7 steps to disconnect your car battery in a safe way:


Total Time: 5 minutes

1. Switch off the ignition & use safety equipment

IgnitionBefore you begin to disconnect the battery, ensure that the ignition is turned off and remove the key. Also leave the driver’s door open, because it can happen that the car will lock while replacing the battery. If you have an automatic, check if the car is in ‘Park’ position or it should be in the first gear in the case that the car has a manual transmission. Since the car battery holds an electric charge and is capable of releasing flammable gas as well, it is strongly recommended to put on some safety gloves and goggles.

2. Open the hood

Battery ReplacementOnce the ignition has been turned off, open the hood by pulling the hood lever or pressing the button which is usually located somewhere below and near the steering wheel. Refer to your car owner’s manual if you can’t find the hood lever.

Some cars have the battery located in the trunk and if so, open your trunk. You can find information about this in your owner’s manual.

Read More At KnowCars.

3. Locate the battery

Car Battery RotatedIf your car battery is located under the hood, go towards the front of your car and open the hood. Use the rod to keep the hood standing in its place and then look for the battery’s negative terminal. The terminal may have a black cover on top of it and will have a negative (-) sign indicating that it is the negative terminal.

Locate your car battery with the help of the owner’s manual. Sometimes it’s located in the trunk or under a seat.

4. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery

Minus TerminalYou should always remove the negative battery terminal first, to reduce the risk of sparks which can make the car battery explode.

Once the negative terminal has been located, use the wrench to loosen the nut that holds the terminal. Once it is loosened, you can use your hand to remove the nut but make sure you have the safety gloves on.

You might face some difficulty in finding the right size socket wrench but once you do, gently turn the screw in a counterclockwise direction until it becomes loose. Make sure to keep the nut in a safe place.

5. Disconnect the positive terminal of the battery

Plus TerminalAfter you have removed the negative terminal, follow the same steps for the positive terminal. Do not let the positive terminal come into contact with any metal part on the car as there is some charge left in the system and in case of contact, the car’s electrical circuit can get disturbed.

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