Car batteries require constant charging for a sure start when you turn the ignition key. The battery produces a strong electrical current to turn the starter motor, which turns your engine over. This process drains energy, and the car's alternator can recharge a healthy battery. A weak battery will require restoration with a battery charger, however. Use a trickle charger on your side-mount battery for safe charging. Trickle chargers work at low amperage for long periods of time, with little use of electricity or risk of overheating the battery fluid.
Turn off the vehicle and put the transmission is in park (automatic) or in gear (manual) with the parking brake on.
Clean the battery cables and side terminals with a wire brush, and wipe away the debris.
Disconnect the black (negative) battery cable from the battery.
Position the charger on a flat surface in front of the engine compartment so the cables and clamps can reach the battery with ease for a tight grip. Place the trickle charger in a secure position to prevent it from falling over.
Consult the manufacturer label on the battery to determine whether it is maintenance free. If not, remove the cell caps on top of the battery and cover them with a clean cloth.
Connect the black (negative) cable clamp to the black (negative) side terminal on the battery.
Set the amperage selector switches to "12V" and "2 AMP" if your charger came equipped with them. Plug the trickle charger into an electrical outlet, and turn the trickle charger power switch to "ON." Leave the charger on 8 to 16 hours or overnight until the battery becomes fully charged.
Turn the power switch to "OFF" on the trickle charger after your battery has fully charged. Unplug the charger from its power source, and disconnect the black (negative) clamp from the battery. Disconnect the red (positive) clamp.
Reconnect the black (negative) battery cable to the negative side terminal on the battery.
