How to Install a Car Battery

Should you ever need to replace your car battery, it’s helpful to know how to actually install a car battery, so you can get back on the roads of Richmond. Here, the team at the Gates Nissan service center outlines how to install a car battery, so you can perform this right in your own Lexington driveway. Need to order a new battery prior to your Nissan battery replacement? Check out our service specials for discounts on new batteries and more!

Prepare to Install a New Car Battery

First, gather the following tools from your garage or local Berea auto parts store:

• Wrench
• Battery cleaning solution
• The new battery
• Wire brush
• Pliers
• Anti-corrosion spray

Then, take the proper safety precautions related to installing a new car battery:

• Always turn the car off.
• Wear insulated gloves.
• Wear safety glasses.
• Perform the installation in a well-ventilated area.

Removing the Old Battery

1. Pop the hood, and locate the battery.
2. With a wrench or pliers, remove the nut connecting the negative (black, minus sign) cable to its terminal.
3. Once freed, secure the negative cable out of the way with a zip tie or another restraint. Perform the same procedure for the positive, red terminal. Do not allow the cables to touch.
4. Loosen the battery from its holding bracket bolts, if it has a battery box.
5. Remove the battery carefully; be aware that it may weigh as much as forty pounds!
6. At this point, use your battery cleaning solution and wire brush to clear off any built-up corrosion.

Installing the New Battery

1. Place the new battery into the battery bracket and secure it with any hold-down clamps.
2. Spray the new battery terminal with your anti-corrosion spray to extend the life of your battery and protect it from any potential damage.
3. Reattach the battery cables to the new battery’s terminals. Connect the red cable first, followed by the black cable.
4. Start your vehicle. It should fire up as you would expect!

Rely on Gates Nissan for Car Battery Maintenance Help

If you have any other questions regarding how to install a car battery before you perform the replacement, contact us today! We are more than happy to guide our London neighbors through the process. If you’d feel more comfortable having a Gates Nissan technician conduct the installation, schedule a service appointment today.