How to Change a Battery in a Dodge Journey
Changing the battery in your Dodge Journey is a task that can be done by most car owners without the need for professional assistance. The process is relatively straightforward and can be completed in about an hour, depending on your familiarity with vehicle maintenance. In this article, we will guide you through the steps required to change a battery in your Dodge Journey.
1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials at hand. You will need a socket set, a wrench, a ratchet, a jack, jack stands, gloves, and eye protection. It’s also a good idea to have a new battery ready to replace the old one.
2. Park the Vehicle on a Flat Surface
Ensure that your Dodge Journey is parked on a flat and stable surface. Engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. This will prevent the vehicle from rolling and ensure your safety during the battery replacement process.
3. Prepare the Vehicle for Battery Replacement
Locate the battery in your Dodge Journey. It is typically found under the hood on the driver’s side. Remove the plastic cover over the battery area to access the battery. You may need to disconnect the negative terminal first if the battery is not fully accessible.
4. Remove the Battery Terminal Connectors
Using the appropriate socket and wrench, carefully remove the negative terminal connector first. This is important to prevent a short circuit. Make sure the wrench is tight enough to prevent the terminal from coming loose during the replacement process. Then, remove the positive terminal connector.
5. Disconnect the Battery Cables
Once the terminal connectors are removed, you can now disconnect the battery cables. The negative cable is usually black, and the positive cable is usually red. Gently pull the cables away from the battery posts, being cautious not to touch the battery posts together.
6. Remove the Old Battery
With the cables disconnected, you can now remove the old battery. Take hold of the battery with both hands and lift it out of the battery tray. Place the old battery on a flat surface to prevent any damage.
7. Install the New Battery
Position the new battery in the battery tray and secure it in place using the brackets or mounting points. Make sure the battery is properly aligned and fits snugly in the tray.
8. Reconnect the Battery Cables
Reconnect the positive cable first, followed by the negative cable. Tighten the terminal connectors securely. Double-check that the cables are properly connected and that there are no loose connections.
9. Replace the Battery Cover and Secure the Battery
Replace the plastic cover over the battery area and secure it in place. This will help protect the new battery and ensure it stays in place during operation.
10. Lower the Vehicle and Test the Battery
Lower the vehicle using the jack stands and remove them. Start the engine and check if the new battery is functioning properly. The vehicle should start without any issues, and the warning lights on the dashboard should turn off.
Congratulations! You have successfully changed the battery in your Dodge Journey. Regularly check your battery’s condition and maintenance schedule to ensure optimal performance and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
