Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A6 Electrical/Electronic SystemsBattery Diagnosis and ServiceMedium
A technician is installing a new battery in a vehicle. After placing the battery in the tray and securing it, what is the correct sequence for connecting the battery cables?
- AConnect the negative (-) cable first, then the positive (+) cable.
- BConnect the positive (+) cable to the starter, then the negative (-) cable to the engine block.
- CConnect the positive (+) cable first, then the negative (-) cable.
- DConnect the negative (-) cable to chassis ground, then the positive (+) cable to the battery.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Connect the positive (+) cable first, then the negative (-) cable.
When installing a battery, always connect the positive (+) cable first. This prevents accidental short circuits if a tool touches the chassis while connecting the positive terminal, as the negative terminal (and thus the chassis) is not yet connected to the battery.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Connecting the negative cable first increases the risk of a short circuit if a tool touches the positive terminal and then the chassis.
- B. While these are correct connection points, the order is crucial; the positive to the battery terminal (which then goes to the starter) should be first.
- D. This describes the connection sequence for a charger, not for installing the battery cables to the battery itself.
Battery Cable Connection Sequence
When installing a battery, always connect the positive (+) cable first, followed by the negative (-) cable, to minimize the risk of accidental short circuits.
- Install: Positive (+) first, then Negative (-).
- Remove: Negative (-) first, then Positive (+).
- Prevents sparks and short circuits.
- Ensures safety during installation/removal.
Memory trick: Positive Power First, Negative Last, Safety's Fast!