Set up your test equipment.
Car battery check up.
In particular pay attention to the battery s trouble spots shown here.
Most retailers offer a simple free five minute battery test.
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The alternator does that.
Specifically the battery feeds the starter which then activates the engine.
Car battery testing voltage.
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But your battery can serve other purposes beyond starting the car.
Before you work on your battery be.
Although knowing how to test a car battery is an important skill when dealing with a seemingly dead battery the problem might simply be in the terminals.
If the voltage is below 11 5 volts.
Contrary to popular belief the battery doesn t provide power for the car s electrical systems while the car is running.
To check a car battery turn off the ignition and pop your vehicle s hood.
Turn the vehicle s lights and ignition off and have your materials ready.
If the battery is in good condition the voltage will read between 12 4 and 12 7 volts.
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A battery like other parts of your vehicle is subject to wear and tear and should be checked regularly.
A battery that s kept clean lasts longer than a cruddy one.
It s important to test your battery and electrical system regularly not just when it s starting to show signs of weakness.
How you use your vehicle electrical accessories driving habits and climate influence what battery technology is best for you.
The parts of the battery to check.
We ll check your alternator starter battery and more.
To do this with the ignition system disabled start by touching your multimeter s red probe to the battery s positive terminal then the black probe to the terminal that connects.
There are several types of battery techonologies available including standard flooded absorbent glass mat agm and optima spiralcell.
Proactively testing it or making sure your mechanic does twice a year will help reduce your chances of failure.
Hook up a voltmeter to the car s battery by connecting the red lead to the positive terminal and the black lead to the negative terminal.