What are Battery Cables?
Battery cables connect your vehicle’ battery terminals to the rest of its electrical system, including its starting, charging, and ignition systems.
Battery cables connect your vehicle’ battery terminals to the rest of its electrical system, including its starting, charging, and ignition systems.
Battery cables are front and center on your vehicle’s electrical system. The positive cable often leads directly to the starter solenoid. From there it continues on to the positive lead on the starter. The negative battery cable is then attached to the vehicle’s chassis, allowing parts like the starter to complete their circuits when the appropriate switches are activated.
Battery cables are made of heavy gauge copper wire on factory equipment, as are the necessary lugs to attach them to a battery. The cables and lugs are available separately.
Many DIY mechanics find it easier to repair old battery cables than to replace them. To repair an old battery cable, you will need a special crimping tool.
Battery cables are an important yet often overlooked part of every vehicle’s electrical system. Before you attempt to replace your starter, alternator, or battery, be sure your battery cables are in good condition.
If you have questions or concerns about battery cables or any of your vehicle’s components or accessories, come into your local Pep Boys where we can answer any question, help you find any part, or perform any vehicle service you might need.
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