How To Disconnect A Car Battery

Understanding the dangers of your battery is extremely important when considering how to disconnect a car battery. The battery is the spark that ignites the car engine, and it should be handled with care when disconnecting.

To disconnect a car battery you will need:

• ½ inch wrench

1. Turn the car off and remove the key from the ignition. It is important to be sure there is no power to the battery when you get ready to disconnect a car battery.
2. Unscrew the bolt for the negative terminal on the battery. The negative terminal is marked with the negative (-) symbol or will say “NEG” on the top. Turn the bolt using the wrench until it is loosened. Use your hand to completely disconnect that side of the car battery.
3. Unscrew the bolt for the positive terminal to disconnect the car battery on the opposite side. The positive terminal is located on the other side of the negative and will say “POS” or marked with the positive (+) symbol. Turn the wrench until the bolt is loosened and remove completely with your hand.
4. Lift the battery out of the car after you disconnect the battery. Be sure to gently lift the battery and only after you have disconnected the car battery. If the battery does not come out with a smooth pull, you may have to shift the battery slightly until the battery is removed.

Learning how to disconnect a car battery requires an understanding of the dangers handling the battery. Batteries contain corrosive acid that can destroy clothing and burn skin. The cable terminals provide an electrical charge so you should not try to disconnect a car battery while the car is running.