With those, including some BMWs, there are jump-start points under the hood that could be used for charging.īatteries can emit harmful and/or explosive gases. This is especially important for models with the battery mounted in the trunk or tucked under the windshield.
This hides that the car is plugged in, creating a risk that a driver in the household might hop in the car and drive away without disconnecting the wires.īe sure to check the car’s owner’s manual before charging because some cars have specific guidance. Resist the urge to route the wire through the grille or down along the engine. You also don’t want to leave the hood completely open because that risks leaving a hood light on if your car has one. Make sure not to close the hood on the wires. Then run the cable into the engine compartment, leaving the hood ajar. There are many products to choose from, and it can be easy to select one meant for other purposes.Ĭonnect the charger per the instructions. These eyelet-style connectors often come with smart chargers, and they can be purchased separately.īefore buying, be sure to read the specs for the charger to ensure that it has the features you want. Further, they can be safer than clips because they reduce the chance of causing an underhood spark. These go onto the battery terminals and allow the charger to quickly plug in and disconnect. Ibbotson suggests using quick connectors, often called pigtails. “These chargers address a wide range of needs, and they work automatically.” “My preference is a smart battery maintainer,” says John Ibbotson, Consumer Reports’ chief mechanic. Verify that the model you are considering has this feature. Most solar chargers come with a reverse charge blocking diode to prevent it from draining the car battery at night. Because of their low amperage, a solar unit is used to offset any natural battery discharge, rather than recharge a weak battery. These connect to the car battery, and some cars can be charged via the 12-volt power point inside. These full-featured chargers typically have modes for maintaining a lawn tractor or motorcycle battery, adding to their value.įor those who park outdoors, away from a power source, there are solar-powered battery maintainers. And there is often a feature to de-sulfate the lead in traditional flooded batteries that reverses some crystallization that occurs when batteries go unused, extending the battery’s life.
Advanced maintainers, often called “smart” chargers, typically have modes to address the needs of absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries, ensuring that they are charged fully and properly. Otherwise, you might suffer from serious shock or injury.A battery maintainer will charge as needed, automatically. Avoid touching the wires while the charger is connected and turned on. Once you’ve ensured a secure connection, attach the black, negative wire to your chosen ground location from Step 2. Now, take the red alligator clip and attach it to the positive terminal of the battery. Otherwise, you might cause an explosion or fire. Keep in mind that you should never use the negative terminal of the battery.
On the other hand, you can also find a section of the frame that is free of excessive grime, dirt and oil. Look for a large bolt connected to the engine block or chassis. The next step is to select a good location for attaching the negative terminal of your trickle charger. Step 2: Choose a Suitable Ground Location Also, turn off the ignition and remove the key. So, make sure that the vehicle is parked in a covered yet well-ventilated area. Keep in mind that excess hydrogen may become concentrated in an enclosed space, causing an explosion or fire.
How to Use a Trickle Charger Step 1: Prepare the Battery for Charging Moreover, you won’t have to deal with a dead battery at the most unexpected and inconvenient time. This way, the energy won’t be drained even if you rarely use the vehicle. When you store your vehicle, you can connect the charger and expect a steady stream of power. In this case, you will need a trickle charger. That said, you may not necessarily operate your car every day.
It is worth noting that your alternator constantly charges your car’s battery. Technically, the term ‘trickle charger’ simply refers to a device that allows you to charge at low amperage. Choose from over 50,000 used cars What is a Trickle Charger?