I recently took my 1995 Ford Escort wagon (150,000 miles) to a well known chain to have the battery replaced. When they put installed the battery, they hooked it up backwards and blew the main fuse. When the main fuse was replaced and I was driving off I noticed that the charging light was on…

Yes, I do have proof, they told me that they did and I was there waiting for the vehicle. It wouldn’t start after the battery was out in and an experienced mechanic came to check it and diagnosed the problem. They said that the old battery was put in backwards (physically) and when they replaced i…

In future discussions about this situation don’t say “they put my battery in backwards” just say they "hooked my battery up backwards’ I say this because I really had to sift through a few sentances in your post that really did not have to be there. Get your story down real clear and don’t “gusssie…

Thanks for the feedback. The old battery was put in backwards but hooked up correctly. The new battery was put in correctly but hooked up incorrectly. Hope that’s clearer. As of this moment I am also concerned about other after-effects which could affect my car as it’s my primary means of transpo…

No, that’s not clearer. In fact, I’m confused. In small claims court, just say, “They ADMITTED to hooking up my battery INCORRECTLY.” If you aren’t clear, and concise, in your claim, you might lose your claim.

You need to go to the shop manager or store manager for resolution. You should not have to pay for any parts or labor for the new alternator. Hooking up the battery incorrectly blew the alternator. As to other problems, radio etc., you need to get the manager to agree that these were affected as …

Reversing the battery connections is not too uncommon. If the key is off the damage is often just fusible links and fuses and the alternator. If, however, the key is on a great deal of damage can be done. Many relays, the computer, the ignitin switch, etc. If the starter was engaged, it too might ha…

First, let me say, I cannot believe they had the gall to ask you to pay for the alternator. Its demise was a direct result of their negligence. Regardless of how the old battery was installed, it is their responsibility to insure that the correct cables are attached to the correct posts on the repla…

Hooking up a battery backwards will definitely fry a car radio, I know from past experience…it also ruined a CB radio. :frowning:

Your post was completely clear and you explained the situation in a way that any grade-schooler could understand it.

Consequences of Hooking a Car Battery backwards

Maintenance/Repairs

galant March 5, 2010, 5:32am 2

Do you have proof that they attached the cables backwards? Not that I doubt it having happened, it is just that you will need to show someone that it was their fault. I guess it is fair to say they owe you the money for the alternator and also fixing everything else on the car. Why did you need a new battery anyways? Was the alternator fine before they worked on it?

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Consequences of Hooking a Car Battery backwards

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