Replacement of the negative battery cable connecting the 12V auxiliary battery to the vehicle chassis ground points.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Negative battery cable × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Anti-corrosion spray or dielectric grease × 1 — GM Part 12377968 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is powered off and key fob is at least 15 feet away from vehicle
2. Wait at least 2 minutes after powering off to allow capacitors to discharge
3. Locate the 12V auxiliary battery in the engine compartment (driver side front)
4. If using a battery memory saver, connect it according to manufacturer instructions before disconnecting battery
5. Take a photo of cable routing for reference during reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative terminal from battery
   Loosen the negative battery terminal bolt (marked with - symbol) using a 10mm socket. Remove the cable from the battery terminal and secure it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. Do not allow the cable to touch any metal surfaces.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Locate all ground connection points
   The negative battery cable typically connects to multiple ground points on the 2023 Bolt EUV. Trace the cable from the battery to identify all connection points including the primary chassis ground near the battery tray and any secondary ground straps to the body or drivetrain mounting points.
   ℹ️The Bolt EUV may have multiple ground straps. Ensure all are identified before removal.
3. 3

   Remove primary chassis ground connection
   Using a 13mm socket, remove the bolt securing the negative cable to the primary chassis ground point (typically on the inner fender or frame rail near the battery). Note the exact position and orientation of any washers or spacers for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Ground Cable Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove secondary ground straps if present
   If the cable includes secondary ground straps to the body or other mounting points, remove the retaining bolts. Keep track of which bolt came from which location as they may be different sizes.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove cable from any brackets or clips
   Trace the cable route and remove it from any plastic clips or metal brackets securing it to the vehicle structure. Some brackets may have retaining bolts that need to be removed.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove old cable completely
   Once all connections and mounting points are disconnected, remove the negative battery cable from the vehicle. Inspect the cable path for any damage to surrounding components or wiring.
7. 7

   Clean all ground contact surfaces
   Using a wire brush or terminal cleaning tool, thoroughly clean all ground contact surfaces including the battery terminal, chassis ground points, and any ground strap mounting surfaces. Remove all corrosion, paint, and oxidation until bare metal is visible. This is critical for proper electrical conductivity.
   ⚠Ground connections must have metal-to-metal contact. Any corrosion or paint will impede proper grounding and cause electrical system problems.
8. 8

   Install new cable to chassis ground points
   Route the new negative battery cable along the same path as the original. Begin by connecting the cable to the primary chassis ground point. Ensure the terminal sits flush against the cleaned mounting surface. Install and torque the bolt to specification.
   Torque spec

   Ground Cable Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect secondary ground straps
   If applicable, connect any secondary ground straps to their respective mounting points. Ensure clean metal-to-metal contact at each connection. Torque all ground strap bolts to specification based on their size.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolt14 Nm (10 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Secure cable in brackets and clips
    Route the cable through all original mounting brackets and clips. Ensure the cable does not contact any sharp edges, hot surfaces, or moving components. Tighten any bracket bolts to specification.
    Torque spec

    Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Connect cable to negative battery terminal
    Clean the negative battery terminal post with a wire brush if needed. Place the cable terminal onto the battery post ensuring it is fully seated. Install the terminal bolt and torque to specification. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery post.
    ⚠Battery terminal bolts require very low torque. Overtightening will strip threads or crack the battery case.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Apply corrosion protection
    Apply a light coating of anti-corrosion spray or dielectric grease to the battery terminal connection and all ground connection points to prevent future corrosion.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all ground connections are tight and have metal-to-metal contact
2. Verify cable routing matches original path and does not interfere with any moving parts
3. Confirm battery terminal connection is secure but not overtightened

Verification

• Turn on ignition and verify that the instrument cluster illuminates normally without any warning lights related to battery or electrical system
• Test power windows, radio, and other electrical accessories to confirm proper operation
• Check that the vehicle can enter Ready mode (for electric vehicles) or start normally
• Verify no unusual electrical system warning messages appear on the driver information center
• Visually inspect all ground connections to ensure they are secure and properly torqued
• If airbag light illuminates, it may require a code clear with a scan tool after reconnection

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