Battery Terminal

This procedure covers cleaning, inspecting, and replacing the 12V battery terminals on the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV to ensure proper electrical connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• 12V battery terminal (negative) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• 12V battery terminal (positive) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Battery terminal anti-corrosion washers × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Ensure the vehicle is powered off and the key fob is at least 10 feet away from the vehicle
2. Allow at least 2 minutes after powering off before disconnecting the 12V battery
3. Open the hood and locate the 12V battery in the left front corner of the engine compartment
4. Visually inspect battery terminals for corrosion, cracks, or damage
5. Take a photo of the terminal configuration if replacing terminals to ensure correct reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect the negative battery terminal
   Using an 8mm or 10mm wrench (depending on terminal type), loosen the negative (-) battery terminal bolt. Turn counterclockwise until loose but do not fully remove the bolt yet. Once loose, carefully lift the terminal straight up off the battery post. If the terminal is stuck, use a battery terminal puller to avoid damaging the post.
   ⚠Never pry between the terminal and post with a screwdriver as this can damage the battery case or post.
2. 2

   Disconnect the positive battery terminal
   Using an 8mm or 10mm wrench, loosen the positive (+) battery terminal bolt. Turn counterclockwise until loose. Carefully lift the terminal straight up off the battery post. Position both disconnected terminals away from the battery posts to prevent accidental contact.
3. 3

   Inspect and clean the battery posts
   Examine the battery posts for corrosion, damage, or wear. Use a battery terminal brush to clean the outside of both posts, rotating the brush firmly to remove all oxidation and buildup. The posts should be shiny metal when clean. If corrosion is heavy, apply a baking soda and water solution first, then clean with the brush and rinse with clean water. Dry thoroughly.
4. 4

   Inspect and clean or replace the terminals
   Inspect both terminals for cracks, excessive corrosion, or stripped threads. If terminals are damaged, replace them. If reusing terminals, use the battery terminal brush to clean the inside of each terminal clamp thoroughly until shiny metal is visible. Clean any attached cable ends and ensure no fraying is present. Remove any corrosion from the terminal bolt threads.
5. 5

   Install the positive battery terminal
   Place the positive (+) terminal onto the positive battery post, ensuring it seats fully and is oriented correctly (cable routing should match original configuration). Hand-thread the terminal bolt clockwise until snug. Using a torque wrench, tighten the battery terminal bolt to specification.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Install the negative battery terminal
   Place the negative (-) terminal onto the negative battery post, ensuring it seats fully and is oriented correctly. Hand-thread the terminal bolt clockwise until snug. Using a torque wrench, tighten the battery terminal bolt to specification.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Apply corrosion protection
   Apply a light coating of dielectric grease or anti-corrosion spray to the outside of both terminals and posts to help prevent future corrosion. Do not apply grease between the post and terminal contact surfaces.

Reassembly

1. Verify both terminals are tight and properly seated on the battery posts
2. Ensure no tools or debris are left in the engine compartment
3. Close the hood securely

Verification

• Power on the vehicle and verify all electrical systems function normally
• Check the instrument cluster for any warning lights or error messages
• Verify the 12V battery voltage is between 12.4-12.8V with vehicle off using a multimeter
• Tug gently on each terminal to confirm they are secure and do not move
• Inspect terminals after 1 week of driving for any signs of looseness or new corrosion

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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