Identifying Positive and Negative Car Battery Terminals

This article was co-authored by Hovig Manouchekian and by wikiHow staff writer, Carmine Shannon. Hovig Manouchekian is an Auto Repair and Design Specialist and the Manager of Funk Brothers Auto, a family-owned business operated since 1925. With over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, Hovig specializes in the process of auto repair and maintenance. He is also very knowledgeable in common automotive issues and needs including engine repair, battery replacement, and windshield accessory and maintenance. Hovig's knowledge and hard work have contributed to Funk Brothers Auto winning Angie's List Super Service Award for five consecutive years.

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Whether you’re jumpstarting your car or switching out the battery, it’s incredibly important to know which battery terminal is which. Generally, the positive battery terminal is red and marked “+”, and the negative terminal is black and marked “-”. We spoke to auto repair specialist and manager of Funk Brothers Auto, Hovig Manouchekian, to get his expert advice on battery care and common mistakes. Keep reading to learn which terminal is which!