How to replace the battery in a Chrysler Pacifica

What you need

• Replacement battery with the same group size as the old one
• 10mm and 13mm wrenches or sockets
• Wire brush
• Baking soda and water
• Safety glasses and gloves
• Terminal protector spray or petroleum jelly

Steps

1. Park on a level surface, switch off the engine and let the engine bay cool. Put on safety glasses and gloves before you touch the battery.

2. Open the hood and find the battery. On most Pacificas it sits on the driver's side of the engine bay under a plastic cover, so lift that cover off first.

3. Loosen the negative (black) terminal clamp with a 10mm wrench and lift the cable off the post. Push the cable to one side so it cannot spring back.

4. Loosen and remove the positive (red) cable the same way. Keep the wrench clear of the bodywork while it is on the positive post.

5. Undo the hold-down bracket bolts, usually 13mm, and lift off any brace sitting over the battery.

6. Note the group size printed on the old battery label so the new one matches, then lift the battery out with both hands using its carry handles.

7. Scrub the tray and cable clamps with a wire brush and a baking soda paste. Rinse with water and dry everything before the new battery goes in.

8. Lower the new battery into the tray with the terminals in the same position as the old one. Refit the hold-down bracket and tighten it so the battery cannot slide.

9. Connect the positive cable first and tighten the clamp, then the negative cable. Coat both posts with terminal protector or petroleum jelly.

10. Start the engine, check the battery light goes out, and reset the clock and radio presets.

Tips and common mistakes

Questions

Which battery cable comes off first?

The negative (black) cable always comes off first and goes back on last. That way a wrench touching the positive post cannot short against the car body.

Do I need to reprogram anything after a battery change?

Usually just the clock and radio presets. Some Pacificas also need the one-touch windows reset, which is a short procedure in the owner's manual.

Can I clean the terminals instead of replacing the battery?

Yes, if the battery still holds a charge and only the posts are crusty. A wire brush and baking soda will clear the corrosion, but a battery over four years old that cranks slowly is usually ready for replacement.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.