Battery Cable - Positive

Replace the positive battery cable on the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, which connects the 12V auxiliary battery to the vehicle's electrical distribution system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Battery terminal protection spray or dielectric grease × 1 — ACDelco or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off all electrical accessories and remove key fob from vehicle
3. Wait at least 2 minutes after turning off vehicle to allow systems to power down
4. Open hood and locate 12V auxiliary battery in engine compartment (passenger side)
5. Identify positive (+) cable with red cover/marking and negative (-) cable

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (-) battery terminal bolt. Remove the cable from the terminal and position it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. Secure it so it cannot fall back onto the terminal.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the positive (+) battery terminal bolt. Carefully remove the cable from the terminal. If the terminal is stuck, use a battery terminal puller to avoid damaging the battery post. Do not pry with a screwdriver.
3. 3

   Remove positive cable routing clips
   Follow the positive cable from the battery to identify all mounting clips and brackets. Remove any clips or fasteners securing the cable to the vehicle body or engine compartment. Note the routing path for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Disconnect positive cable at distribution point
   Locate where the positive cable connects to the main electrical distribution point or junction block (typically near the battery or firewall). Remove the retaining bolt or nut securing the cable terminal. Keep track of any washers or spacers.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove old positive cable
   Carefully remove the positive cable from the vehicle, ensuring it does not snag on any components. Inspect the cable routing path for any damage to surrounding components or wiring harnesses.
6. 6

   Clean battery terminal and connection points
   Using a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner, thoroughly clean the positive battery post and the connection point at the distribution block. Remove all corrosion, oxidation, and debris. The surfaces must be bright and clean for proper electrical contact.
7. 7

   Route new positive cable
   Route the new positive cable along the same path as the original, ensuring it does not contact sharp edges, moving parts, or heat sources. Verify the cable reaches both connection points without stress or excessive slack.
8. 8

   Connect cable at distribution point
   Attach the positive cable terminal to the distribution block or junction point. Install any washers or spacers in their original positions. Tighten the mounting bolt to specification using a torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Bracket Bolts20 Nm (15 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Secure cable routing
   Install all routing clips and brackets to secure the positive cable. Ensure the cable is firmly held in place and cannot rub against sharp edges or moving components. Verify adequate clearance from exhaust components and drive belts.
10. 10

    Reconnect positive battery terminal
    Place the positive cable terminal onto the battery post. Ensure it is fully seated. Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to the terminal if desired. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery post.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect negative battery terminal
    Place the negative cable terminal onto the battery post. Ensure it is fully seated. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all cable connections are tight and properly torqued
2. Ensure no tools or parts are left in engine compartment
3. Apply battery terminal protection spray if available

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify dashboard lights illuminate normally
• Start the vehicle and confirm it starts without hesitation
• Check that all electrical systems function properly (lights, radio, power windows, climate control)
• Verify no warning lights are illuminated on the instrument cluster
• Perform power window auto-up/down relearn if necessary (cycle windows fully up and down 2-3 times)
• Visually inspect that positive cable is securely routed and all clips are fastened

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