Checking the condition and replacing battery wires (Opel Astra H)

1. Regularly inspect the battery cables along their entire length for signs of mechanical damage, cracks and burnt insulation, as well as traces of corrosion. Do not forget that a violation of the quality of the electrical connection of the contact terminals can lead to difficulties in starting the engine, as well as a decrease in its efficiency.

2. Check the terminal clamps of the wires for cracks, signs of copper wire loss, and traces of corrosion. The presence of white powdery deposits accumulated under the insulation layer near the terminal tips indicates the development of corrosion and the need to replace the wire. Check the battery terminals and the clamps that secure the wire tips to them for signs of deformation, loose bolts, and traces of corrosion.

3. When replacing wires, follow the instructions in Section 9. Remember to disconnect the negative wire, even if only the positive wire is being replaced. Try to remember the routing of both wires so that you can follow them when installing new ones.

4. Take the wire to be replaced with you to the store as a sample. It is extremely important that the design of the wire clamps matches the shape of the connecting terminals on the car. Note: As a rule, wires are easy to distinguish from each other by the color of the insulation, always black for the negative and red for the positive. In addition, the positive wire usually has a larger cross-section.

5. Before connecting the new wire to the battery terminal, make sure it reaches the battery terminal freely without excessive tension. Clean the battery terminals thoroughly, then lightly lubricate them with acid-free petroleum jelly.