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.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
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 707,893 times. Reader Success Stories
Did this article help you?How long do you charge a battery with a battery charger?Recharging a battery with a typical charge amp of around 4-8 amperes will take about 10-24 hours to charge fully. However, if you just want to boost your battery enough to start the engine, it would take about 2-4 hours—or, if possible, you can use another vehicle to jumpstart your battery.
How long does it take to charge a car battery with a 12 volt charger?The average time it takes to charge a car battery with a 12-volt charger is around 12 hours. This may seem like a long time, but it is necessary to ensure that the battery is fully charged. In addition, slowly charging your battery is better for the battery's health in the long run.
|