What size wrench is needed for car battery screws?
3 Answers
Generally, wrenches sized 10, 12, 13, and 14 are commonly used for removing car batteries. The size of the wrench required varies depending on the specifications and model of the car and its battery. For example, Wuling vehicles typically use a 12V 5A or 6A battery, and an 8-size wrench is sufficient to remove the battery screws. Below are some precautions for using car batteries: 1. Always remember to turn off the lights: For instance, forgetting to turn off the headlights during the day, especially for beginners who might turn on the car lights while playing with the car and forget to turn them off after shutting down the engine, can drain the battery over time. Similarly, listening to music or using the air conditioning when the car is not running can also lead to a dead battery. 2. Pay attention to maintenance: To prevent the car battery from running out of power, it's important to maintain it properly. First, avoid frequently starting the car. Just like any living thing, constant starting and stopping can cause wear and tear. If the car doesn't start on the first try, it's better to wait a moment before trying again, as continuous attempts put a lot of pressure on the car, increase discharge, and gradually reduce the battery's lifespan.
As a DIY car repair enthusiast, I was also confused by the screw sizes when I first replaced a car battery. Most car battery terminal screws require a 10mm or 12mm wrench, commonly found in Japanese and Korean vehicles; European and American cars might use 13mm, but sizes vary, so it's best to have an adjustable wrench on hand for testing. Remember to disconnect the entire vehicle's power when removing or installing the battery—always disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent short-circuit risks, and use insulated gloves for safety. During routine maintenance, if you notice any loose screws, tighten them promptly with the appropriate tool to avoid poor contact and starting difficulties. I also recommend regularly checking the battery's cleanliness to prevent corrosion issues that could affect its lifespan. These tips have saved me a lot on repair costs.
I've been driving for decades and have replaced many batteries, always encountering this issue. The wrench size for battery bolts varies by car: Asian cars generally use 10mm, while European and American cars may require 12mm or 13mm. A safety tip is not to go straight in with your hands—try using the sizes from the car's socket tool set instead. Universal wrenches aren't reliable and can easily slip off. Always disconnect the car key before operation, loosen the negative terminal bolt first, or else a short circuit could fry your electronics. For maintenance, regularly test the voltage after tightening and consider applying anti-oxidation spray to extend battery life. Since adopting this routine, my car has never broken down midway.
