How to disconnect car battery safely | 7 Simple Steps

How to disconnect car battery Working on a  car battery can be daunting for many people, especially those who have just bought their first car. A big mistake when dealing with auto parts, and you could have an accident. 

Thus, it is essential to know how to handle auto parts, e.g., disconnecting the battery. Fortunately, disconnecting and reconnecting a car battery is one of the most straightforward tasks for a car project.

Easy Steps how to disconnect the car battery [safely]

Why do you have to disconnect car batteries?

How to disconnect a car battery Many people would wonder why removing a car battery is essential knowledge. The main reason for removing the car battery is to avoid an electric shock accident, especially.

How to disconnect the car battery when you are working on other parts. Below are other possible reasons why it is necessary to disconnect the car battery.

1. Cleaning purposes

In this case, insufficient electricity can be passed on to the terminals. Because of this, some of your electrical components may not work correctly.

 You will need an old toothbrush to clean your car battery. Mix a heaping tablespoon of baking soda with half a liter of water. Dry the battery and connectors with a dry towel.

2. Replacement

There will always be a time when you need to replace your car battery. Typically car batteries last an average of three to five years. If you’re having trouble turning on your car’s ignition, you may need to replace it with a new one.

3. For storage

If you are not going to drive your vehicle for a long time, we recommend disconnecting the car battery for storage. One of the good examples is when you go on vacation.

 This way, you can prevent the battery from running down. The battery has a shorter lifespan due to the frequent discharging of the charge.

Precautions Before you disconnect the battery

Make sure the vehicle is turned off.

You must turn off your vehicle while working on the battery. How to disconnect car battery Ensure that all battery-operated devices are switched off in your car. Working on a car battery with the ignition on can result in an accident or electric shock.

Work on a flat surface and in a well-ventilated area.

Avoid changing the roadside battery as much as possible. Many things can cause unfortunate events such as traffic or accidents.

Remove all jewelry

you should avoid wearing your valuable jewelry when working on your car battery. Remove your watch or wedding ring to prevent electric shock.

Parts you need to know

There are two essential things you need to know before you can start working on your car battery. The most important parts are the negative and positive connections. 

With a standard “AA” size battery, the negative and positive poles are usually labeled. In a car battery, the minus pole with a black cap or the one with the minus or “-” sign. In the meantime, a positive connection is a red cap or a “+” sign. 

After determining where these terminals are located, you need to select the socket size for the socket wrench to work on the nut.

Tools you need to know

It would help if you had suitable tools to work safely on the battery trolley. The goggles protect your eyes from unexpected sparks that can be dangerous when disconnecting the car battery.

You will also need a wrench set to loosen the nut. Make sure you have your wrench extender ready if you need it. Finally, use insulated work gloves to protect your hand from electric shock and flammable hydrogen gases.

How to disconnect car battery?

1. Know the location of the battery

1. Choose the correct socket for a wrench

Typical socket wrench sizes are 7 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, or 13 mm. It would help if you had the wrench based on your vehicle. 

It’s easier if you have quick releases because you don’t need a tool. 

2. First, loosen the nut on the negative pole

Why should you disconnect the negative pole first? This is to prevent a short circuit from being caused, damaging some electronic devices in the vehicle. Always work on the negative pole first. 

3. Disconnect the negative cable

Next, you need to remove the cable from the terminal. Use binding material to ensure that the line is not in contact with metal. 

4. Do the same with the positive pole

Repeat steps 3 and 4 with the positive pole. Make sure that neither cable touches the metal nor the end of the other.

5. Remove the battery from the car

Finally, remove the car battery to begin cleaning, replacement, or simply storage. Some car batteries may weigh more than 20 pounds, and you may want to ask someone else to help you lift the battery.

How do I reconnect a car battery?

1. Place the (new) battery in the car

First, you have to clean both the minus cable and the plus cable with a connecting brush. Then place the (new) battery in the car compartment. 

2. Insert the washers 

Install anti-corrosion washers on both clamps. The red washer is for the positive connection, while the black one is for the negative association. They are readily available in online shops or any nearby garage store.

3. First, connect the positive cable

When connecting a new or previous battery, plug the cable into the positive terminal first and ensure that the line runs along the connector’s bottom. Tighten the nut with the wrench. 

4. Do the same with the minus cable

Do the same step for the minus cable. Spray some battery protection and sealant into both clamps. This prevents the formation of corrosion.