How to Change a Car Battery by Yourself, Find Out the Signs You Need a New One

Liputan6.com, Jakarta Do you know how to change a car battery when it stops working? Many car owners face this problem at some point. A dead battery can leave you stuck and unable to drive your car. However, changing a dead car battery is actually very easy, and it's a basic skill for every car owner.

Car batteries need to be replaced every few years. Most batteries last between two to six years before they lose power. Knowing how to change a car battery yourself means you don't have to wait for help or pay someone else to do it. This task is easier than many people think, and you only need a few simple tools.

In this article, you’ll learn how to change a car battery step by step, how to tell when your car battery is getting weak, and what types of batteries exist. We gathered the information from various sources, Thursday (6/11/2025).

If you want to know how to change a car battery by yourself at home, follow these easy instructions carefully:

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Area

Before you begin, park your car on a flat and safe surface. Turn off the engine, engage the parking brake, and remove the keys. Gather your tools: safety gloves, safety glasses, a wrench, a wire brush, and a clean cloth. Always make sure the area is well-ventilated since car batteries can release gas.

Step 2: Locate the Battery

Open your car’s hood and find the battery. Most car batteries are located in the front engine bay, but some cars have them in the trunk. If you’re not sure where it is, check your owner’s manual for help.

Step 3: Identify the Terminals

The battery has two terminals: positive (+) and negative (–). The positive terminal usually has a red cover or marking, and the negative terminal is usually black. Make sure you can clearly identify both before moving forward.

Step 4: Disconnect the Negative Terminal First

Using your wrench, loosen the nut on the negative terminal and carefully remove the cable. Always start with the negative terminal to avoid short circuits. Keep the cable away from the battery while you work.

Step 5: Disconnect the Positive Terminal

After removing the negative cable, loosen and remove the positive terminal cable. Be careful not to let the two cables touch each other.

Step 6: Remove the Old Battery

Most batteries are held in place with a clamp or bracket. Use your wrench to remove it, then carefully lift the old battery out. Remember, car batteries are heavy, so use both hands and proper posture.

Step 7: Clean the Battery Tray and Terminals

Check for corrosion (white or green buildup) on the battery tray or terminals. Use your wire brush and a bit of baking soda mixed with water to clean the area. Make sure everything is dry before placing the new battery.

Step 8: Install the New Battery

Place the new battery in the tray with the positive and negative posts in the same positions as before. Secure it with the clamp or bracket so it doesn’t move.

Step 9: Reconnect the Terminals

Attach the positive cable first and tighten it. Then attach the negative cable and make sure both are firmly connected. This order is important to prevent sparking.

Step 10: Test Your Car

Start your car to make sure the new battery works. If it starts smoothly, your installation was successful.

Now you know how to change a car battery at home, you may be wondering if you can detect the problem early before your car battery dies. Well, don't worry, because there are several signs that your car battery has become weak and you need a new one. Here are some signs you need to check:

1. Slow Engine Start

If the engine takes longer to start than usual, your battery may be weak and struggling to deliver the necessary power to the starter.

2. Dim Headlights

When your headlights appear dim or flicker often, it usually means the battery can’t provide enough energy for all electrical systems.

3. Check Engine Light

If the battery or engine light stays on, it could be warning you that the battery charge is too low or unstable.

4. Electrical Issues

When your car’s accessories, like the radio or power windows, work slowly or fail, your battery might be running out of stored power.

5. Strange Smell

A rotten egg-like odor under the hood can mean the battery is leaking acid, which is both dangerous and a sign of failure.

6. Swollen Battery Case

If the battery case looks bloated or expanded, it may have overheated or been overcharged, and it’s time for replacement.

7. Old Age

Most car batteries last between 3 to 5 years. If yours is older than that, it’s likely losing its capacity and needs testing.

Dry and wet cell batteries are two popular types used in cars today. Both types store and supply power to your vehicle, but they work in different ways. Each of them has its pros and cons, so you need to think carefully before choosing one for your car.

A wet cell battery contains liquid electrolyte, usually a mix of water and sulfuric acid. It needs regular maintenance, such as topping up the water level. Wet cell batteries are usually cheaper and provide strong power, but they can leak and require more care.

A dry cell battery, on the other hand, is sealed and maintenance-free. It doesn’t use liquid but rather a paste or gel as its electrolyte. This makes it safer, easier to handle, and less likely to leak. However, dry cell batteries are often more expensive and may not last as long under heavy use.

Both batteries have pros and cons. Wet cell batteries are a good choice for those who want a powerful yet affordable option, while dry cell batteries are perfect for people who prefer a maintenance-free, cleaner solution.

An AGM battery, or Absorbent Glass Mat battery, is becoming more popular among car owners today. This type of battery uses special glass mats to hold the electrolyte in place, making it spill-proof and maintenance-free. Because of its design, it performs better than traditional lead-acid batteries in many ways.

AGM batteries are known for their ability to handle deep discharges and recharge quickly. They are great for modern cars with many electronic systems, as they provide steady power and last longer. They also work well in vehicles that use start-stop technology, which requires the battery to restart the engine frequently.

While AGM batteries are more expensive, they offer better performance, safety, and durability. They can be installed in any position without leaking and are resistant to vibration, making them ideal for cars, boats, and even solar systems. For those who want a reliable and long-lasting battery, an AGM battery is a smart investment.