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What tools do I need to replace a car battery?
I’d like to replace my battery myself. I know I can buy a new battery at the auto parts store but what tools do I need to replace a car battery?
Bonnie Stinson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Great question! To replace a car battery, you will need an adjustable wrench, a crescent wrench, vise pliers, and a socket wrench.
You need tools to loosen the bolts on the battery terminal, remove the battery bracket, and clean the terminals.
Most car battery cables are 10mm (0.4 inches), so look for this size wrench or socket. If the nuts and bolts are corroded, you may need replacement parts. Most cables use 10mm nuts and the battery bracket typically uses a 10mm bolt (some use 12mm or 13mm bolts).
In most Japanese and American cars, the battery bracket is on top. European vehicles typically use a side or bottom bracket. You’ll need an 8” extension and ratchet to access the bolt to reach this bracket.
If you want to get really fancy, you can use a battery terminal cleaning brush and dielectric grease to clean the terminals and clamps. Don’t forget hand and eye protection!
Some cars require specialty tools. However, if you drive a common make and model then the above tools should be all you need to complete this service yourself!
Insurance can also be pretty complicated. If you have any questions about
homeowners insurance
, reach out to Jerry
. Our friendly agents are just a text or phone call away! The Jerry app is the fastest way to find a good policy. You can compare rates and sign up for a policy in seconds. Have fun!
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.
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