my Toyota Camry Eighth Generation (2018-present) won't start, is it a dead battery?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools: multimeter, jumper cables, socket set, and safety goggles.
• Ensure the vehicle is in park (automatic) or neutral (manual) and the parking brake is engaged.
• Disconnect the battery by removing the negative terminal first to prevent short circuits.

2. Battery Testing

• Sub-step 1: Connect the multimeter leads to the battery terminals (red to positive, black to negative).
• Sub-step 2: Read the voltage; if it is below 12.4 volts, it indicates a dead or weak battery.
• Sub-step 3: If the battery is dead, proceed to jump-start the vehicle. Connect the positive jumper cable to the dead battery's positive terminal and the other end to the good battery's positive terminal. Then connect the negative jumper cable to the good battery's negative terminal and the other end to a metal ground on the dead vehicle.

3. Battery Replacement (if needed)

• Sub-step 1: If the jump-start is successful, allow the engine to run for at least 20 minutes to recharge the battery. If not successful, replace the battery.
• Sub-step 2: Remove the old battery by loosening the hold-down clamp and disconnecting the terminals (negative first, then positive).
• Sub-step 3: Install the new battery by connecting the positive terminal first, followed by the negative terminal. Tighten the hold-down clamp securely.

4. Clean and Inspect Terminals

• Sub-step 1: Clean any corrosion from battery terminals and connectors using a wire brush or terminal cleaner.
• Sub-step 2: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or anti-corrosion spray to the terminals to prevent future corrosion.