Connect which battery cable first

This is one of the most important steps. You will need at most only a couple of wrenches to get the job done, depending on how much space there is to maneuver the wrench and whether the battery cable uses a single bolt on the clamp or one that also uses a nut on the other end. You'll have to borrow the wrenches from a friend or relative or buy a set.

Most but not all battery-cable clamps have millimeter bolts, so you'll likely need a millimeter open-end wrench to disconnect the cables. A socket-wrench set that includes that same-size socket will be helpful as well. In some cases, you can get by with just an adjustable open-end wrench. Here's where you need to be careful. Make sure the car's ignition is off. It's a good idea to wear eye protection when working around batteries.

First, unbolt the negative battery cable and disconnect it by lifting it free. It might take some wiggling and twisting to pull it off.

Be sure never to let the wrench touch both the negative and positive terminals at the same time. Even though the battery is technically dead, there might be enough residual electricity in it to short it out and create a spark, and you don't want any sparks around the battery or the engine compartment.

Before placing the new battery in position, ensure that both terminals and the cables are rust-free. If they are rusty, you can clean them with water, baking soda, and a wire brush. Next, lower the battery onto the battery tray with the terminals in the right position, and clamp it into place.

Now connect the new battery in the reverse order, connecting the positive terminal first then the negative. Never connect the red cable to the negative battery terminal or a vehicle with a dead battery. Identify a metal ground within the vehicle with the dead battery.

You can use the metal frame of the vehicle. Connect the other negative clamp to the metal ground of the vehicle with the dead battery. You can use the engine block or another metal surface of the vehicle away from the battery. This is the last connection you need to make. Start the car with the charged battery. When you need to connect the battery it is important to connect the positive first and then the negative.

This keeps you safe as well as the equipment safe. A circuit can be made when connecting the battery be it the wires touching something or the tools that you are using. If it is already grounded and the positive wire touches something than a spark will occur. It is important when jumping a battery and connecting jumper cables to also remember to connect the positive terminal first. This applies to the good battery and the dead one. It is a good habit to always connect the positive first and then the negative and when disconnecting to disconnect the negative first and then the positive.

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