When connecting a battery, you should connect the positive terminal first , followed by the negative terminal. This is the standard practice to avoid short circuits and sparks. Conversely, when disconnecting a battery, you should remove the negative terminal first , then the positive terminal. The reasoning is related to safety: the negative terminal is usually connected to the vehicle’s frame (ground). If you disconnect the negative terminal first, it breaks the circuit and reduces the risk of accidental short circuits when handling the positive terminal. When connecting, attaching the positive first avoids the risk of sparking or shorting that could occur if the negative (ground) were connected first and a tool accidentally touched the frame or metal parts while connecting the positive terminal. In summary:
- Connecting: Positive first, then negative.
- Disconnecting: Negative first, then positive.
This method reduces the risk of sparks and potential damage to the vehicle or injury to the person handling the battery.
