This procedure covers removal and replacement of the battery in a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler with 3.6L V6 engine, including proper terminal cleaning and torque specifications.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Group 48 automotive battery (650-800 CCA recommended) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Battery terminal protector pads (optional) × 2 — Felt terminal protectors

Preparation

1. Ensure vehicle is parked on level ground with engine off
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key
3. Note radio security code if applicable before disconnecting battery
4. Open hood and locate battery in engine compartment on right (passenger) side
5. Inspect battery area for corrosion and clean if necessary before starting

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the negative (-) battery terminal bolt. Do not remove the bolt completely, just loosen until the terminal can be removed. Use a battery terminal puller if terminal is stuck. Move the negative cable away from the battery post and secure it so it cannot accidentally contact the post.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm socket, loosen the positive (+) battery terminal bolt. Remove the terminal from the battery post and move the cable aside, ensuring it does not contact any metal surfaces. Cover the positive terminal with a shop towel if needed for additional protection.
   ⚠Keep positive cable away from metal surfaces to prevent accidental short circuit
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
3. 3

   Remove battery hold-down clamp
   Locate the battery hold-down bracket at the base of the battery. Using a 13mm socket, remove the hold-down bolt completely. Lift the hold-down clamp off the battery and set aside.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4. 4

   Remove battery from vehicle
   Carefully lift the battery straight up and out of the battery tray. Battery weighs approximately 40-50 lbs - use proper lifting technique. Inspect the battery tray for corrosion, cracks, or damage.
   ⚠Battery is heavy - use proper lifting technique to avoid injury
5. 5

   Clean battery tray and terminals
   Clean the battery tray with baking soda and water solution to neutralize any acid corrosion. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly. Using a battery terminal cleaner or wire brush, clean both battery cable terminals (inside the clamps) until bare metal is visible. Clean the terminals on the new battery if any oxidation is present.
6. 6

   Install new battery
   Carefully lower the new battery into the battery tray, ensuring it is seated fully and oriented correctly with positive terminal toward the front of the vehicle. Verify battery is stable and sits flat in the tray before proceeding.
7. 7

   Install battery hold-down clamp
   Position the hold-down clamp over the battery base and align with mounting hole. Install the hold-down bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure battery cannot move but do not overtighten as this can damage the battery case.
   ⚠Do not overtighten hold-down bolt - overtorquing can crack the battery case
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Connect positive battery terminal
   Place the positive (+) cable terminal onto the positive battery post. Ensure terminal is fully seated on the post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Apply dielectric grease to the connection if desired.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect negative battery terminal
   Place the negative (-) cable terminal onto the negative battery post. Ensure terminal is fully seated on the post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Apply dielectric grease to the connection if desired.
   ℹ️Small spark may occur when connecting negative terminal - this is normal
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all battery connections are tight and properly torqued
2. Ensure no tools or debris are left in engine compartment
3. Apply battery terminal protector spray or pads if desired to prevent future corrosion

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify dashboard lights illuminate normally
• Start engine and verify it cranks and starts normally
• Check that battery voltage is approximately 12.6V with engine off, 13.5-14.5V with engine running
• Re-initialize power windows if necessary: roll each window fully down, then fully up and hold switch for 2 seconds
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed
• Verify no warning lights on dashboard related to electrical system

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