Battery Terminal

This procedure covers cleaning, inspection, and replacement of battery terminals on the 2017 Maserati Levante 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo, ensuring proper electrical connections and preventing corrosion-related issues.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Battery terminal positive × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Battery terminal negative × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Terminal protective caps × 2 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is off with key removed
2. Close all windows and doors (they cannot be opened electrically once battery is disconnected)
3. Have radio security code available if equipped
4. Allow engine to cool completely if vehicle was recently driven
5. Locate battery in engine compartment on passenger side

Procedure

1. 1

   Access battery compartment
   Remove plastic engine cover if equipped by pulling upward on clips. Identify battery location on right side of engine bay. Remove any air intake components or covers obstructing full access to battery terminals.
2. 2

   Disconnect negative terminal
   Using 10mm socket, loosen the negative (black, marked with minus sign) battery terminal bolt. Do not remove bolt completely, only loosen enough to slide terminal off post. Carefully lift negative terminal away from battery post and position it away from battery to prevent accidental contact. Secure with a tie or tape if necessary.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect positive terminal
   Using 10mm socket, loosen the positive (red, marked with plus sign) battery terminal bolt. Remove terminal from post and carefully position away from battery and any metal surfaces. Cover exposed positive post with a non-conductive material if available.
   ⚠Keep positive terminal away from all metal surfaces to prevent short circuit
   Torque spec

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

   Inspect terminals and cables
   Examine battery terminals, cable ends, and battery posts for corrosion, cracks, fraying, or damage. Check cable insulation for wear or exposed wire. Inspect battery case for cracks, leaks, or bulging. If terminals show significant corrosion, cracks, or damage, replacement is necessary. If cables are damaged, they must also be replaced.
5. 5

   Clean battery posts
   Using wire brush or terminal cleaning tool, thoroughly clean both battery posts until shiny and free of corrosion. If heavy corrosion is present, apply baking soda and water solution to neutralize acid, then scrub clean and dry thoroughly. Posts must be completely clean for proper electrical contact.
6. 6

   Clean or replace terminals
   If reusing existing terminals, clean interior contact surfaces with terminal cleaning tool or wire brush until shiny. Remove all corrosion and oxidation. If installing new terminals, ensure correct gauge and type for Maserati application. Clean mating surface on cable ends as needed.
7. 7

   Apply protective coating
   Apply thin layer of dielectric grease or anti-corrosion spray to cleaned battery posts. Do not over-apply as excess can interfere with electrical contact. This helps prevent future corrosion.
8. 8

   Install positive terminal
   Place positive terminal onto positive post, ensuring it sits flush against the post and is oriented correctly for cable routing. Install terminal bolt and tighten to specification using torque wrench. Terminal should be snug but not over-tightened to avoid cracking post.
   ⚠Do not exceed specified torque - overtightening will damage battery post
   Torque spec

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

   Install negative terminal
   Place negative terminal onto negative post, ensuring proper seating and cable routing. Install terminal bolt and tighten to specification using torque wrench. Verify terminal is secure but not over-tightened.
   Torque spec

   Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Apply final protection
    Spray battery terminal anti-corrosion spray over installed terminals or apply additional dielectric grease to exterior of connections. Install protective caps over terminals if equipped. Wipe away any excess grease or spray.

Reassembly

1. Reinstall any air intake components or covers removed for access
2. Reinstall plastic engine cover if equipped, ensuring all clips engage properly
3. Verify battery hold-down bracket is secure and properly torqued if it was disturbed during service

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position (do not start) and verify all dashboard lights illuminate normally
• Start engine and confirm it cranks and starts normally without hesitation
• Check that all electrical systems function properly (windows, radio, climate control, lights)
• Perform power window and sunroof initialization if required per owner's manual
• Re-enter radio security code if applicable
• Inspect terminals after first drive for any signs of looseness or heating
• Check battery voltage with multimeter - should read approximately 12.6V with engine off, 13.5-14.5V with engine running

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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