Look periodically at the end of each
Battery cable for damage, cracked or burned insulation, and corrosion as poor connections can cause starting problems and lead to decreased engine performance. Inspect the cable to terminal connections for cracks in the wire strands or looseness, and for deposits that look like white, fluffy stuff under the insulation-this means corrosion and replacement is needed. Connect last and disconnect first to prevent shorting the battery and always have the correct activation code for any anti theft radio system before disconnecting. Remove the old cables from the battery, and trace them to opposite ends so they're installed correctly; take the old cables to a parts store (positive cables are often red, and larger and ground cables are generally black, and smaller). Wire brush away any corrosion on the threads of the solenoid or ground connection, apply a thin layer of corrosion inhibitor or petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion future, and then secure the cable to the solenoid or ground connection again. Before you connect a new cable to the battery, make sure it does not stretch so that it reaches the battery post and connect the positive cable first, then the negative cable.