The negative terminal is color-coded black and will be connected to the minus side of the battery. The negative wiring insulator will be colored black, and the negative terminal attaches directly to the negative side of the battery and to the metal chassis of the car. If you have ever wondered what the difference is between. Battery failure is common, but so too is assuming a flat battery means your battery is faulty. Misdiagnosing a battery can be an expensive mistake. Checking battery voltage as per the above. A car battery will have a fastener on each terminal and a third fastener; the battery hold down, and it secures the battery to the chassis of the car. Your symptoms could range from: 1. No power at all, anywhere 2. Ignition lights work, but the engine won't crank 3. Car cranks but won't start 4. You'll need a donor vehicle or a spare battery or alternatively, consider buying a jump pack. The little NOCO Boost pack is about the best I've seen, and I've been a mechanic for over twenty-five years. It's small enough to fit in a.