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How to Charge a 12 Volt Toy Battery

Many larger toys such as motorized cars and backyard vehicles use 12-volt batteries as their energy source. These toys rely on a fully charged battery to perform optimally and safely for your children. Be sure to teach your children about safely using toys with these large and powerful batteries to prevent accidental battery acid burns or other serious injuries. Charging your 12-volt battery is easy but should always be done cautiously.

Things You'll Need

12-volt charger
Heat-resistant counter or floor

Instructions

- 1
  Find a location where you can charge the battery safely. A concrete floor is a good selection because it will be resistant to the heat generated from the battery charge. You will also need to have the charger cord reach the outlet directly. These measures lessen the risk of fire.
- 2
  Plug the charger into the wall socket.
- 3
  Remove the battery from the toy. (Be sure the toy is turned off and the battery is cool before removing.) There should be a white connector box that releases when you squeeze the sides. This box is about one inch long and half an inch wide with two wires extending from the back.
- 4
  Examine the battery to make sure it is still in good condition and has no leaks of acid or cracks in the battery casing.
- 5
  Connect the battery to the charger. You will use the the same white connector to attach the battery to the charger. The charger should have the "male" prong box that fits the "female" white box attached to the battery casing. Match these by inserting until they are snugly in place.
- 6
  Look at the lights on the charger that indicate if the battery is fully charged (green light), in need of charge (red light) or if the batter is defective or damaged (yellow flashing light).
- 7
  Remove the battery white connector when the battery is fully charged (green light). Use gloves or allow the battery to cool before moving.

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