Download Article Show Download Article Car batteries stay charged by harnessing the extra power of the car's engine, and most can go for at least five years without needing to be replaced or recharged.[1] But even the best car batteries will run out of power eventually — or lose their charge prematurely when you leave your lights on too long. It can be a serious inconvenience to find yourself with a dead battery, but recharging one can require very little in terms of tools or mechanical experience.
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ReferencesAbout This ArticleArticle SummaryX If your car battery is dead, you can charge it using a car battery charger. Start by locating your car's battery under the hood or in the trunk. Look for the positive terminal, which will be marked with a plus sign, and the negative terminal, which will be marked with a minus sign. With your battery charger switched off and unplugged from the wall, connect the red clamp on the charger to the positive terminal on the battery and connect the black clamp to the negative terminal. Then, plug the charger in and turn it on. If the charger has a digital display that allows you to set the desired voltage, set it to the voltage that’s listed on the battery or in the owner’s manual for your vehicle. It can take at least several hours to fully charge your car battery. Once it’s charged, turn off the battery charger and unplug it from the wall. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery, followed by the positive cable. If the battery doesn’t hold a charge or dies again shortly after you charge it, take it to an auto parts store and have it tested to see if you need a new one. To learn how to charge a car battery by connecting it to another car, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 704,392 times. Reader Success Stories
Did this article help you?How long does it take to slow charge a car battery?Slow Charge Rate
It's recommended that you let the vehicle charge overnight with this setting. If the battery was completely dead, it may take up to 24 hours to charge fully.
How do I slow down my car battery with a trickle charge?How to Use a Trickle Charger on Your Car Battery. Set the Power Specifications. ... . Position Your Vehicle. ... . Ground the Charger. ... . Clip the Connectors Onto the Battery. ... . Plug Into Power. ... . Watch the Setup.. Can you slow charge a car battery overnight?You can leave the battery charging overnight, but be sure you use a smart charger that cuts off the power when fully charged and use a slow charging mode that reduces heat accumulation. Also, try to not keep the battery charging for more than 24 hours.
Is it better to charge battery slow or fast?A fast charge is nice if you're in a hurry, needing to unplug and go. But if it's charging at your desk, during a 5-hour drive, or while you're sleeping, it doesn't really matter if it charges fast – especially if there's a downside. In fact, a slower charge over time can provide a hidden perk: A longer battery life.
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