Q: What’s the proper way to disconnect the battery

asked by on December 15, 2015

What’s the proper way to disconnect the battery

In normal operation, your battery should recharge while the engine is running (the alternator should supply all the power needed). However, if the car has set for some time, it’s possible that the battery may be low. To charge it, you’ll first need to disconnect it. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Disconnect the battery hold down (the metal bracket on top of the battery).

  2. Disconnect the negative battery cable (black).

  3. Disconnect the positive battery cable.

  4. Remove the battery.

Tips

  • Always disconnect the negative cable first to avoid potential discharge.

  • Always reconnect the negative cable last to avoid potential discharge.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you use the turn signal lever?
Your turn signals provide important information for other drivers. They allow you to tell cars coming toward you and driving behind you that you intend to turn either right or left. You activate the turn signals with the turn signal...
Belt or tensioner squeaking.
This issue could be either part or the need to replace both. The belt if worn could cause the noise. The tensioner may not provide enough tension and could be the problem/. If the tensioner is bad then it is...
Power steering, engine, and brakes quit, but lights work
A few different faults can cause the vehicle to stall out like this. The most common would be the ignition switch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ignition-switch-replacement), battery (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-replacement), fuel pump (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-pump-replacement), fuel filter (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fuel-filter-replacement), or battery cable (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-cable-replacement). The brakes will work without the...
My car has a rough idle, cuts off sometimes at a complete stop, and hesitates during acceleration
Hi - this could be a problem with the idle control valve, either dirty or failing. Leaking fuel injectors, clogged air filter, or low fuel pressure might also cause the symptoms you have noticed. I would recommend having a certified...
EGR GAS RECIRCULATION SYSTEM VALVE 2
The color (black) is just a consequence of "carbon particles" that are normally present in the exhaust flow through the valve. We would need the exact Diagnostic Trouble Code ("DTC" as displayed on the Code Scanner) in order to advise...
My car bucks when I step on the gas pedal, even in park. It acts like it's not getting fuel, at idle it runs smoothly.
This may be a sign of a dirty or failing mass air flow sensor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/mass-airflow-sensor-replacement). The mass air flow sensor is a unit in the intake system that monitors air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being...
It cranks over like it wants to start but it won't.
Hi there. Under the passenger seat or in a panel on the dash there is an inertia switch that will cut off the fuel in the event there is an accident. Locate the inertia switch and see if its active....
Just had my transmission oil leak fixed and now my car is acting up, when I'm slowing down it starts to like stall n then it stops
Hi there. Typically a slipping transmission will not cause the engine to vibrate and shake while the vehicle is in gear and nearly stalling when you stop. This is typically caused by a fuel system component failure, such as a...
The ABS and Parking light signal in the dashboard of my car what are the meaning
The abs and parking brake lights (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/abs-light-is-on-inspection) coming on typically indicate a fault in the anti-lock braking and/or the traction and stability control systems system. These systems rely on a variety of sensors and switches for input. For instance, wheel...

Related articles

How to Deal With a Car Battery For Long-Term Storage
If If you store your car for the winter, or for other long periods, it’s important to make sure that your car battery is properly cared for. Long term car storage can wreak havoc on your battery. Isn't it okay...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
The The smaller size and aggressive styling make the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander a great choice for those who want an SUV, but don’t want to deal with some of the large behemoths available. With numerous tech options and all-wheel drive...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Ford Taurus
The The Ford Taurus received something of a revival over the past several years, and it has become one of the family sedan staples in the United States. It’s a beautiful and bold looking vehicle that offers a wealth of...