Your Ford Focus isn’t going anywhere without a working battery. Find out how to take on battery inspection and maintenance tasks before shopping for a new car battery online to restore your ride.
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How To Diagnose a Bad Car Battery
The most obvious sign that you need a new battery is that your car won’t start. Failure to start, however, could be caused by a bad alternator or starter, or a drained battery.
Test your 2014 Ford Focus battery with a battery tester or voltmeter. A tester is available at your local auto parts store to use for free or to purchase for home use. This simple tool gives you a clear reading to show whether your battery needs to be replaced or recharged.
Other signs of a bad battery are leaks, cracks and swollen casing. Use extreme caution when handling a battery that’s leaking or cracked, as the acid inside a lead-acid battery can cause burns and other issues.
How To Choose the Correct Car Battery
Batteries come in a wide range of sizes, capacities and designs. Here are a few features you need to compare as you search for the best Ford Focus battery:
- Group size
- Reserve capacity
- Cold cranking amps
- Terminal positioning
- Warranty length
The warranty length is the only area where you can shop around for your favorite battery. The other specifications must be the same as your original battery to ensure safe use.
How To Install a New Battery
Once you’re sure you need a new automotive battery, order one for your Ford Focus and prepare for a DIY installation project. Start by parking your car on flat ground in a well-lit area. Wear gloves and safety glasses to avoid injury from sparks or battery acid.
Locate the old battery and carefully remove the negative battery cable. Wait until this cable is fully removed and set away from the battery before removing the positive cable. Check for any straps, covers or other features to secure your battery. Once these are removed, you should be able to lift the battery straight out.
Set the old battery to the side as you wait to recycle it at a reputable auto parts store. Place the new battery in the same spot, taking care not to touch the cables to the terminals until you’re ready to connect them. Secure the new battery with the same strap or case. Connect the positive cable to the terminal first, then connect the negative terminal.
How Long Car Batteries Typically Last
While some batteries can last as long as 10 years, on average they last between three and five years. Continue to monitor your battery and replace it at the first signs of failure to ensure your starter always has the power it needs. If you’re not comfortable handling the DIY replacement steps, bring your Focus to a local auto parts store for free battery testing and installation.
Where To Purchase a Quality Car Battery
Explore highly rated batteries at your local auto parts store or online. Verify you’re purchasing the exact type you need for your 2014 Ford Focus before ordering. Bring your old battery in for free recycling to prevent environmental contamination.
