If your car battery goes dead because you left the lights on in your car, you might have the car jumped to get the battery going again. The alternator can charge the battery while the car is running so the problem is solved. When something is wrong with your battery, it may not charge up or hold the charge. In that case, you'll need to have a new battery installed. Here are some things to know about car battery installation. 

When You Need A New Battery

If you can't charge a battery up by jumping it, that's a sign the battery is bad since it won't charge. However, you might tell by looking when a battery is bad. If the side of your battery is bulging out or the case is cracked, the battery is ruined and needs to be replaced.

However, if you're not sure if the battery is bad or not, call a mobile mechanic or have your car towed to a shop so a mechanic can look at the battery and determine if it's bad or if there is something else wrong with your car.

How To Choose A New Battery

Leave your old battery in your car since your mechanic may need to see it to choose the right replacement battery. The battery should have a label on the side with numbers. These numbers show the amps and size for the new battery. After that, you can choose the type of battery and the brand. New battery prices vary quite a bit, and the batteries have different warranties.

Your mechanic can help you choose the best battery for your car. Once that's done, the car battery installation can begin.

Where To Get A Car Battery Installation Done

You could call your car dealer for a new battery or try a general mechanic or tire shop. You might also call your roadside assistance provider if you have one. They may sometimes put in a new battery at your home. You could also try an auto parts store. Some may put the new battery in after you buy the battery.

Installing a new battery isn't too difficult as long as you know what you're doing. If you've never installed a battery before, a better time to learn might be when you can take your time at home later. The battery has to be installed properly, so you should probably let a professional do it if you don't have experience. For instance, the negative cable has to be removed first, or you might endanger yourself or cause an electrical short.

Share