In a World of Electronics

Tips For Changing Your Vehicle's Car Battery And Not Losing Memory Settings

Do you need to replace the battery in your modern vehicle, but you're worried about losing all of the settings stored in the computer system's memory? Modern cars often have complicated computer systems with the ability to save preferences for all types of things, which range from settings for your radio to custom seat position preferences. Here is how you can swap out the battery and not lose any of these details in the memory. 

Connect A Memory Saver

The trick to not deleting all of your saved preferences is to get a memory saver from your local auto parts store. This is a device that plugs into the OBD port of your computer, which is the same port that a mechanic uses to read error codes on the dashboard. The memory saver does require power, so you'll need some sort of power source to give it the juice it needs. If you are at home, you could plug it into an electrical outlet, but if you have a car battery jumper that allows you to plug things in, you can also use that as well. Once the memory saver is plugged in, you can continue with disconnecting the battery. 

Disconnect The Battery 

There is actually a right and wrong way to disconnect your vehicle's battery. You always want to start by disconnecting the negative side and then disconnecting the positive side. If you do it in the wrong order, it is going to cause a huge spark to happen when you disconnect that first cable. 

When removing the battery from the vehicle, try to keep the battery as level as you can. Car batteries are not the same as your traditional battery and actually have battery acid. If the old battery is damaged in some way that you are not aware of, that battery acid could unintentionally leak out as it is tipped on its side. Always leave it in an upright position just to be safe. 

Reconnect The New Battery 

When reconnecting the new battery, the cables will go on in the opposite order. Start with the positive side and then reconnect the negative side. Once again, going in the wrong order will cause a huge spark to happen. 

Disconnect The Memory Saver

Now that the new battery is connected, you can disconnect the memory saver from the OBD port. Try starting up your car and checking your memory presets. If it worked properly, then you will see that everything is exactly how it was when before you swapped the battery. 

For more information about car battery installation, contact a local professional, like Electro Battery Inc. 


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