Battery Cable - Positive

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the positive battery cable on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L Turbo, including disconnection from the battery terminal and all related electrical connection points.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable × 1 — Use OEM Honda part or exact equivalent

Preparation

1. Ensure the ignition is off and the key fob is at least 10 feet away from the vehicle
2. Allow the engine to cool completely if recently driven
3. Locate the battery in the engine compartment on the driver's side
4. Take a photo of the positive cable routing for reference during reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (black, marked with - symbol) battery terminal bolt. Remove the terminal from the battery post and secure it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. Do not allow the negative terminal to touch any metal parts.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the positive (red, marked with + symbol) battery terminal bolt. Carefully remove the positive terminal from the battery post. If the terminal is stuck, use a battery terminal puller to avoid damaging the post.
3. 3

   Remove engine compartment fuse box cover
   Locate the underhood fuse box near the battery. Remove the cover by unclipping the tabs. This provides access to the positive cable connection point inside the fuse box.
4. 4

   Disconnect positive cable from fuse box
   Inside the fuse box, locate the positive battery cable connection point (large red wire terminal). Using a 10mm socket, remove the nut securing the positive cable to the fuse box. Carefully pull the cable terminal free from the stud.
5. 5

   Trace and disconnect additional connections
   Follow the positive cable routing. On this engine, the cable may connect to the starter motor. Using a 12mm socket, remove the nut securing the positive cable to the starter solenoid terminal. Remove any cable retention clips along the routing path.
6. 6

   Remove old positive battery cable
   Carefully pull the positive cable through its routing path, noting the position of any grommets, clips, or protective sleeves. Remove the cable completely from the vehicle. Inspect the routing path for any damage or debris.
7. 7

   Prepare and route new cable
   Compare the new positive cable to the old one to verify correct replacement. Route the new cable through the same path as the original, ensuring it follows the factory routing and does not contact sharp edges, moving parts, or hot exhaust components. Reinstall any grommets and protective sleeves.
8. 8

   Connect cable to starter motor
   If applicable, attach the positive cable terminal to the starter solenoid stud. Install the nut and tighten by hand first, then torque to specification using a 12mm socket. Ensure the terminal makes full contact with the stud surface.
9. 9

   Connect cable to fuse box
   Insert the positive cable terminal onto the fuse box connection stud. Install the nut and tighten by hand to ensure proper threading. Verify the terminal is fully seated before final tightening. Use a 10mm socket to secure the connection.
10. 10

    Secure cable routing
    Install all cable retention clips along the routing path to prevent cable movement and potential chafing. Ensure the cable has adequate clearance from the serpentine belt, cooling fans, and exhaust manifold. The cable should not be stretched tight or have excessive slack.
11. 11

    Clean battery posts and terminals
    Using a wire brush or battery terminal cleaner, clean the positive battery post until shiny. Clean the inside of the positive battery terminal. This ensures a good electrical connection and prevents voltage drop.
12. 12

    Connect positive battery terminal
    Place the positive terminal onto the positive battery post, ensuring it is fully seated on the post. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the connection if desired. Install the terminal bolt and torque to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Connect negative battery terminal
    Place the negative terminal onto the negative battery post, ensuring it is fully seated. Install the terminal bolt and torque to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. This completes the battery connection.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstall the engine compartment fuse box cover, ensuring all clips are properly engaged
2. Verify all cable connections are tight and properly torqued
3. Ensure no tools or parts are left in the engine compartment

Verification

• Turn the ignition to the ON position (without starting) and verify that the dashboard lights illuminate normally
• Start the engine and verify normal operation with no warning lights
• Check that all electrical accessories function properly (headlights, radio, power windows, etc.)
• Verify the battery charging system shows proper voltage (approximately 13.5-14.5 volts with engine running)
• Inspect the positive cable routing to confirm it does not contact any moving or hot components
• Reset the clock and radio presets as needed

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

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