When your car won't start, there are several electrical issues that could be the problem. Jumpstarting the car can give you enough charge to get you where you need to go, but it can also mask electrical problems that drain your battery, regardless if it's old or new.

You need to test the battery before replacing it. There are other causes of a no-start or a dead battery, including problems with the alternator, a short circuit, or another electrical issue. If these are not addressed, the new battery will run down and the car will not start again.

In general, car batteries typically last about 3 to 4 years. Factors like heat, heavy use, and unsecured battery hold-downs can all impact how long a battery lasts.

Signs of bad battery include:

Zero response when you turn the key. When nothing happens and there are no warning lights on the dashboard when you turn the key, that means the car has a dead battery.

The starter cranks slower than normal. When you turn the key, does the starter motor crank slowly, struggle, or hesitate? These are signs the battery needs to be checked.

Dim headlights. Dim headlights when the car is off can be a sign of a bad battery. Dim headlights when a car is running can be a sign of a bad alternator.

Battery or charging system warning lights appear. Some cars have warning lights that tell you the battery is dead or about to die.

The battery has cracks or leaks. If your battery has any cracks, leaks, or damage, it should be replaced immediately.

What you need

Replacement battery

Eye protection and protective work gloves

Ratchet and socket, wrench, and locking pliers. Common sizes for battery terminal and connector bolts are 5/16" (10mm) and ½" (13mm)

Wire brush and steel wool

Battery cleaner spray and battery anti-corrosive gel

Step 1: Find the car battery

Put the car in park, turn it off, and remove the key. Before you locate the battery, make sure the engine has cooled down. Most car batteries are in the front, mounted on a plastic or metal tray, under the hood. Some cars have the battery in the trunk.

Step 2: Locate and disconnect the battery terminals

Batteries have two terminals where the cables are connected. They may be covered by plastic covers. There will be a black one (negative) and a red one (positive). The terminals may also be marked with + for positive and - for negative.

Always disconnect the negative cable first. Wearing work gloves and eye protection and using a wrench, loosen the bolt that tightens the negative connector to the battery terminal. Once loose, gently twist the cable connector back and forth as you lift it up to remove it from the battery terminal.

Next, remove the positive cable. Using the wrench, loosen the bolt that tightens the cable to the battery terminal. Once loose, gently twist the cable connector back and forth as you lift it up to remove it.

Step 3: Remove the old battery

Car batteries are secured with a metal bar over them or a metal clamp at the base. Loosen the bolt that secures the holding bar or clamp so you can remove it and lift the battery out of the car. Batteries have caustic liquid inside, so be sure to always keep it upright.

Step 4: Clean the battery tray and terminal connectors

Terminal connectors corrode over time, and now is a great opportunity to give them a thorough cleaning.

Using a battery cleaner and a wire brush, clean the connectors and the battery tray. Alternatively, you can use a baking soda paste by mixing two tablespoons of baking soda with a teaspoon of water. Use steel wool to clean inside the connectors then thoroughly dry everything.

Inspect the cables and connectors to ensure they are not damaged or frayed.

Step 5: Install and secure the new battery

Double-check to make sure that the position of the new battery matches the red and black terminals. Lower the new battery into the car and onto the mounting shelf. Re-attach the clamp or hold-down bar and tighten the bolt to secure it.

Before reconnecting the terminals, consider using protective felt washers or some battery anti-corrosive protection gel on both terminals.

Always connect the positive cable to a new battery first. Be sure the connector is pushed all the way down on the terminal. Tighten the bolt. Repeat the same steps for the negative connector to the negative terminal.

Step 6: Close the hood and start the car

New car batteries normally come charged and are ready to go right away. Some vehicles require a computer reset and relearn procedure to operate properly. Nashville Roadside Assistance can not only install your new battery, but we can also program and reset the vehicle battery no matter where your located. If you need a battery replacement in Nashville TN, call (615) 779-3275.