This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the positive battery cable on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6L V6 engine, including proper disconnection sequence and torque specifications.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

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

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off all electrical accessories and remove key from ignition
3. Allow engine to cool if recently operated
4. Open hood and secure in open position
5. Locate battery in engine compartment on driver side
6. Take a photo of cable routing for reference during reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (black) battery terminal bolt. Do not remove the bolt completely, just loosen enough to remove the cable. Lift the negative cable off 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. Remove the positive cable from the battery post. If the terminal is stuck, use a battery terminal puller to avoid damaging the post. Move the cable end away from the battery.
   ⚠Ensure the positive cable does not contact any grounded metal surfaces during removal
3. 3

   Remove power distribution center connections
   Locate the power distribution center (fuse box) near the battery. The positive cable attaches to the underside. Using a 13mm socket, remove the bolt securing the positive cable terminal to the power distribution center stud. Note the position of any other cables or wires on the same stud.
4. 4

   Disconnect starter motor connection
   Trace the positive cable down to the starter motor on the passenger side of the engine. Using a 13mm socket, remove the nut securing the positive cable terminal to the starter solenoid stud. Pull the cable terminal straight off the stud.
5. 5

   Remove cable routing clips
   Follow the cable routing and disconnect any plastic clips or holders securing the cable to the vehicle body or engine. Note the exact routing path for reinstallation. Remove the old positive battery cable from the vehicle.
6. 6

   Clean connection points
   Use a wire brush to clean the battery positive post, power distribution center stud, and starter solenoid stud. Remove any corrosion from the battery post with a battery post cleaner or wire brush. Clean the cable terminals on the new cable if necessary.
7. 7

   Route new positive cable
   Route the new positive battery cable along the same path as the original, referencing your photo. Ensure the cable is not kinked, twisted, or routed near hot exhaust components or sharp edges. Secure with original routing clips.
8. 8

   Connect starter motor terminal
   Place the cable terminal onto the starter solenoid stud. Install the nut and tighten to specification using a 13mm socket and torque wrench. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the stud before tightening.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect power distribution center
   Attach the positive cable terminal to the power distribution center stud, ensuring it is in the correct position relative to other cables. Install the bolt and tighten to specification using a 13mm socket and torque wrench.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect positive battery terminal
    Place the positive cable terminal over the positive battery post. Ensure it is fully seated. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Apply dielectric grease or terminal protection spray to the connection.
    ⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal bolt as this can crack the terminal or damage the battery post
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect negative battery terminal
    Place the negative cable terminal back onto the negative battery post. Install and tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Apply dielectric grease or terminal protection spray.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all cable connections are tight and properly torqued
2. Ensure cable routing matches original configuration and is secured with all clips
3. Confirm no tools or loose items remain in engine compartment

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and verify dashboard lights illuminate normally
• Start the engine and verify proper cranking and starting
• Check that all electrical systems function properly (lights, radio, windows, etc.)
• Verify no warning lights related to charging system are illuminated
• Allow engine to idle and confirm battery voltage is 13.5-14.5 volts with a multimeter
• Inspect all connections for any signs of arcing, heat, or loose terminals
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed

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