Does Batteries Plus Replace Car Batteries?

Power - by Bryan Veldboom - updated on 8/23/2023

If you're in the market for a new auto battery, Batteries Plus can help. Not only do we carry an enormous selection of top brand auto batteries, but we also offer free battery testing and expert battery installation with an auto battery purchase (available at most locations, on most makes and models). Here's a closer look at what we have to offer.

How Do I Know When My Car Needs a New Battery?

The battery in your car or truck only has a lifespan of about three to five years. Here are a few warning signs that your car battery needs replacing:

• Difficulty turning over your engine
• Headlights appear dimmer than normal
• Performance problems with electrical accessories like radios, power seats & power windows
• The battery's exterior casing is cracked or swollen
• Buildup of corrosion on the battery's terminals

Does Batteries Plus Test Batteries?

If you're worried about your battery's performance, you'll want to have your battery's voltage tested. You can test a car battery yourself using a multimeter. If you don't have a multimeter, there's an easier way. Just bring your car or truck to your nearest Batteries Plus location. One of our associates will test your battery's voltage, cold cranking amps, as well as your vehicle's starter and alternator. The test itself takes only 90 seconds and can help save you the hassle of finding yourself stranded on the side of the road.

Batteries Plus Carries the Best Auto Battery Brands

So, what happens if you need a new battery? If you've had your battery tested at Batteries Plus, you're already in the right place. Our stores carry over 50 different auto battery sizes and styles from some of the most trusted brands in the industry.

Need help finding the right battery for your needs? Read our blog entitled, "How to Choose a Car Battery: A Beginner's Guide." Looking for a battery recommendation? Read about "The Top 4 Best Replacement Car Batteries," including our exclusive X2Power batteries, the longest-lasting, highest-performing auto batteries on the market.

How Do You Change a Car Battery Step By Step?

If you're a DIY type, just follow these steps to disconnect your old battery and install your new one.

1. Getting Prepared

• You'll need: a socket set (to help remove the battery's brackets), cleaning supplies (a solution of baking soda and water, a brush & anti-corrosion spray), a multimeter and a battery maintainer with a memory saver cord
• Memory savers help preserve electronic settings such as programmed radio stations, clock settings and seat positions.
• Be sure to wear safety glasses and protective gloves when changing a car battery.

2. Disconnect & Remove the Old Battery

• Pop the hood and locate the battery.
• Unfasten the screws or restraining system holding the battery in place.
• Locate the terminals/posts.
• Ensure that the vehicle's power has completely powered down by using a multimeter to determine the amp draw from the battery.
• Once the amp draw is at 0.05 or lower, you can proceed. Most vehicles take about 2-3 minutes to power down, although some models (BMW, Mercedes) can take up to 15 minutes.
• Before disconnecting the cables, use a battery tender to ensure that radio presets and other electronic settings aren't lost.
• Plug the memory saver cord into the OBD port (located in a removable panel under the steering column on the driver's side), then attach it into the battery maintainer and turn it on.
• Be sure that you do not short the connectors either to the frame or cross terminals while a memory saver is plugged in. There is power running through them even when they are removed from the battery which can damage a vehicle's electrical system.
• Disconnect the battery's negative terminal first.
• Then, disconnect the positive terminal.
• Lift the battery out.
• Clean the battery tray and terminal clamps using the baking soda/water solution. Then use the brush to scrub away any corrosion.

3. Install the New Battery

• Use a permanent marker to write the date you purchased the battery somewhere on the battery's label.
• Insert the new battery in the tray.
• Spray the battery terminals & other metal components with anti-corrosion spray.
• Connect the positive terminal with the positive cable first.
• Connect the negative terminal with the negative cable second.
• Remove the memory saver cord from the OBD port.
• Secure the battery with the clamp or bracket that holds it in place.
• Tighten all fasteners and close the hood.
• Start up the car to make sure that everything is working properly.

How Do I Schedule My Arrival Time for a Car Battery Installation?

Don't feel like replacing the battery yourself? No problem. It's easy to get your battery installed at your nearest Batteries Plus. Please note that there are a small number of vehicle models we cannot service. For these vehicles, you will not receive an "Expert Install" option during online checkout.

Batteries Plus Offers Premier Battery Installation

Battery corrosion is a leading cause of early battery failure. If you're looking to get the longest life out of your new battery, select "Upgrade to Premiere Installation" during checkout. Our associates will apply corrosion cleaning spray, terminal protection spray and install terminal protectors during installation to help prevent the buildup of harmful corrosion.

Shop Auto Essentials at Batteries Plus

Need a new pair of headlight bulbs, windshield wiper blades or a jump starter? You'll find all of that and more in our Automotive Center. If you need a new key fob or auto remote, take advantage of our key fob replacement service (available at participating locations only). We can provide you with a new auto fob for 50% less than the dealership cost.

You'll also find plenty of additional information in our blog. Some related topics include "6 Easy Steps to Jump Start Your Car" and "Is It Okay to Drive When the Battery Light Is Lit Up on Your Dashboard?"