This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the positive battery cable on a 2015 Kia Forte with 1.8L I4 engine, including disconnection from the battery terminal and all electrical connection points.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Positive battery cable × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn off all electrical accessories and remove key from ignition
3. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
4. Open hood and secure with prop rod
5. Locate battery in engine compartment on 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. This must be done first for safety.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
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. If the terminal is stuck, use a battery terminal puller to avoid damaging the post.
   ⚠Keep the positive cable away from any metal surfaces to prevent accidental grounding.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove battery hold-down
   Remove the battery hold-down bracket using a 10mm socket to access the positive cable routing. Set the bracket and bolt aside in a safe location.
   Torque spec

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

   Trace and disconnect cable at fuse box
   Follow the positive cable from the battery to the main fuse box located near the battery. Remove the protective cover from the fuse box. Locate the positive cable connection point (typically a large bolt or stud). Using a 12mm socket, remove the bolt securing the positive cable to the fuse box junction.
5. 5

   Disconnect cable at starter motor connection
   Trace the positive cable to the starter motor solenoid connection on the rear of the engine. You may need to access from underneath or use an extension. Using a 12mm socket, remove the nut securing the positive cable terminal to the starter solenoid stud. Note the routing and position of any other wires at this connection.
   ℹ️Take a photo of wire routing and connections before removal to ensure correct reinstallation.
6. 6

   Remove cable routing clips
   Identify and release all cable routing clips and ties securing the positive cable along its path. Note the exact routing for proper installation of the new cable. Remove any protective conduit or loom covering if present.
7. 7

   Remove old positive cable
   With all connections and clips released, carefully remove the entire positive battery cable from the vehicle. Inspect the routing path and verify all connection points are clean and free of corrosion.
8. 8

   Prepare and route new cable
   Compare the new positive cable to the old one to verify correct part. Route the new cable along the exact same path as the original, ensuring it does not contact any sharp edges, moving parts, or heat sources. Secure with the original routing clips.
9. 9

   Connect cable at starter motor
   Connect the positive cable terminal to the starter solenoid stud, ensuring proper orientation. Reinstall any other wires that were removed in the same order as original. Install the nut and tighten to specification using a 12mm socket and torque wrench.
10. 10

    Connect cable at fuse box
    Connect the positive cable to the main fuse box junction point. Ensure the terminal is fully seated on the stud. Install the bolt and tighten to specification using a 12mm socket and torque wrench. Reinstall the fuse box protective cover.
11. 11

    Reinstall battery hold-down
    Reinstall the battery hold-down bracket over the battery. Install the hold-down bolt and tighten to specification. Ensure the battery is secure and cannot move.
    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 needed. Place the positive cable terminal onto the positive battery post, ensuring full contact. Apply dielectric grease if desired. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench.
    ⚠Do not overtighten the battery terminal bolt as this can damage the battery post or terminal.
    Torque spec

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

    Connect negative battery terminal
    Clean the negative battery post with a wire brush if needed. Place the negative cable terminal onto the negative battery post. Install the terminal bolt and tighten to specification using a 10mm socket and torque wrench. Expect a small spark when making final connection - this is normal.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all cable connections are tight and properly torqued
2. Ensure cable routing does not interfere with any moving parts or heat sources
3. Verify battery hold-down is secure
4. Reset clock and radio presets as needed

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify all electrical systems function normally
• Start the engine and confirm proper starting operation
• Check for any warning lights on the instrument cluster that may need clearing
• Verify the charging system is functioning by checking battery voltage with engine running (should be 13.5-14.5 volts)
• Inspect all connection points for proper tightness and no signs of arcing or heat damage
• Test major electrical components including headlights, wipers, power windows, and radio

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