I visited a local workshop for the tuning and oil change of my car. There was a large queue before me, so I had to wait in the resting area. I asked around about the reason for the queue.
It turns out the majority of the people are visiting workshops because their vehicle’s electronic systems are completely disabled. I was curious that it could not happen without disturbance under a car hood.
Upon further investigation, I found they were trying to replace their car battery. When I cut the power, it shut all electronic systems down. The memory got reset, which triggered a unique security protocol. I could disable this peculiar protocol system by entering a particular code.
So, during tuning of my car, I expert mechanic to tell me how to avoid triggering security protocol while changing a car battery. He elaborated that it was a simple process that can save time and money.
Steps to Follow While Changing a Car Battery
Many people do not realize that you can change a car battery without losing system memory. You can conveniently change the battery at your home garage. Thus, you can save yourself from unnecessary automobile expenses. It will also prevent your car computer system from malfunctioning. Following are the steps needed to replace the car battery adequately.
- Remember your safety first.
While working with electrical equipment, you must exercise proper cautionary measures. Always put on a pair of gloves, preferably rubber gloves.
In case of any leakage or visible damage to the battery, let a professional handle it as it could cause an accident. Know which cable color is attached to which node. Make sure to do this procedure in a workspace free from sparks and electrical discharges.
- Prepare necessary tools for the job.
Get all the required tools ready before starting the battery removal process. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves. Remember to have an adjustable wrench that fits the bolts and a few types of screwdrivers to handle any screws.
- Open the bonnet and locate the battery.
Batteries usually get placed under the bonnet. You may also find the batteries in the trunk or under the seat of some automobiles. Therefore, it is best to consult the car manually if you do not immediately spot the battery under the hood.
- Prepare secondary power source.
The secondary power source can be a donor battery or booster/jump pack. Firstly, locate a suitable place for a secondary power source where it can reach battery terminals.
The purpose of attaching a secondary source is to provide constant power. It will prevent power from going out. Thus, computer systems will not get reset.
Now attach the secondary source with jumper cables to the cables on the original battery. Stay watchful of the colors on the crocodile clips and ensure that the black connects black and red connects red. Do check by turning on the engine to see if it worked.
- Remove the clamp that is holding the battery.
A clamp holds the battery. It can either be at the base of the battery or across the pinnacle face of the battery. So, use an adjustable wrench to loosen the bolts at the clamp and eliminate it.
- Remove your old battery.
Once you dispose of the clamp, you will not find the battery held in its previous position. Now, disconnect the attached cables from the battery and eliminate them.
The secondary power source will still be providing power to your car through cables, which will prevent the electronic system from resetting.
When you remove lead from your battery, make sure crocodile clips stay connected to a secondary power source.
- Attach new battery.
Place your new battery in the space provided. After connecting the leads into a new battery, connect a red cable with the positive point on the battery. Afterwards, attach the black cable with the negative terminal of the battery. Remove the secondary power source by disconnecting crocodile clips.
Now, secure your newer battery by attaching the clamps and tightening the bolts using an adjustable wrench which will hold the battery firmly and securely.
- Test.
Start your car to test whether you carried the whole procedure properly. You will notice that electronic systems will be working. Try the radio to check if it is operational.
If all is working normally, then congratulations, you have successfully replaced your car battery without losing the settings of the electronic system.
- Additional Notes.
You can use your newer battery as a temporary secondary power source. Just follow extra caution when removing the old battery.
Conclusion:
Changing the battery of a car may sound like a troublesome task. However, if you perform all the steps adequately with prompt safety, you may encounter promising results. If you do not prosper, I suggest showing your car to an automobile specialist.
