Battery Cable - Positive

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the positive battery cable on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure engine is off
2. Turn off all electrical accessories including lights, radio, and climate control
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Wait at least 3 minutes after turning off ignition to allow airbag system to discharge
5. Locate the battery in the engine compartment on the driver's side

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (black) battery terminal bolt. Remove the negative cable from the battery post and secure it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact.
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the positive (red) battery terminal bolt. Carefully remove the positive cable from the battery post. Keep the cable isolated from any metal surfaces.
3. 3

   Remove battery hold-down
   Using a 10mm socket, remove the battery hold-down bracket bolt. Remove the hold-down clamp to access the battery if needed for cable routing inspection.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Trace and expose positive cable routing
   Follow the positive battery cable from the battery terminal through the engine bay to identify all connection points. The cable routes to the underhood fuse box and starter motor. Note any cable clips or wire harness securing points along the routing path.
5. 5

   Disconnect positive cable at fuse box
   Locate the positive cable connection at the underhood fuse box on the driver's side. Using a 10mm or 12mm socket (depending on connection type), remove the bolt securing the positive cable terminal to the fuse box power distribution point. Carefully pull the cable terminal away from the connection.
6. 6

   Remove cable securing clips
   Release all plastic clips and wire harness retainers securing the positive cable along its routing path. Use panel removal tools if necessary to avoid breaking clips. Keep track of clip locations for reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove old positive cable
   With all connections and clips released, carefully remove the positive battery cable from the vehicle. Inspect the routing path and any grommets or protective sleeves that should be transferred to the new cable.
8. 8

   Prepare and route new positive cable
   Clean all connection points with a wire brush. Compare the new cable to the old cable to verify correct application. Route the new positive cable through the same path as the original, ensuring it does not contact sharp edges, moving parts, or hot exhaust components. Install any grommets or protective sleeves.
9. 9

   Connect cable at fuse box
   Connect the positive cable terminal to the underhood fuse box power distribution point. Ensure the terminal is properly seated and the connection surface is clean. Install and torque the securing bolt to specification using a 10mm or 12mm socket.
10. 10

    Secure cable routing
    Reinstall all cable securing clips and wire harness retainers along the routing path. Ensure the cable has adequate slack for engine movement but is not hanging loose or able to contact moving components.
11. 11

    Reinstall battery hold-down
    If removed, reinstall the battery hold-down clamp and secure with the hold-down bolt. Torque to specification to ensure the battery is properly secured without overtightening.
    Torque spec

    Battery Hold-Down Bolt10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Connect positive battery terminal
    Clean the positive battery post with a wire brush if necessary. Place the positive cable terminal onto the battery post, ensuring it is fully seated. Apply dielectric grease if desired. Install and torque the terminal bolt to specification. Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal or battery post.
    Torque spec

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

    Connect negative battery terminal
    Place the negative cable terminal onto the battery post, ensuring it is fully seated. Install and torque the terminal bolt to specification. Do not overtighten.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connections are tight and properly routed
2. Ensure battery terminals are tight but not overtightened
3. Confirm no tools or parts are left in the engine compartment

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and verify instrument cluster illuminates normally
• Check for any warning lights that indicate electrical system problems
• Start the engine and verify normal operation with no electrical system warning lights
• Test basic electrical functions including lights, radio, and power windows
• Verify battery charging system is functioning by checking voltage at battery terminals with engine running (should read 13.5-14.5 volts)
• Re-enter radio code if required and reset clock

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