Battery

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the 12-volt battery in a 2019-2024 Toyota RAV4 with the 2.5L I4 engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• 12V automotive battery × 1 — Group 35 battery, 640 CCA minimum recommended

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and ensure ignition is off
2. Remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Open hood and prop securely
4. Allow engine to cool if recently driven
5. Locate battery in engine compartment on passenger side

Procedure

1. 1

   Install battery memory saver (optional)
   If preserving vehicle settings, plug a battery memory saver into the 12V accessory outlet in the cabin before disconnecting battery. Ensure the device is functioning and has adequate charge.
2. 2

   Disconnect negative battery terminal
   Using a 10mm wrench or socket, loosen the negative (-) battery terminal bolt. Remove the terminal clamp from the battery post and position it away from the battery to prevent accidental contact. The negative terminal is typically marked with a minus sign and may have a black cable.
   Torque spec

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

   Disconnect positive battery terminal
   Using a 10mm wrench or socket, loosen the positive (+) battery terminal bolt. Remove the terminal clamp from the battery post and position it away from the battery. The positive terminal is marked with a plus sign and has a red protective cover that may need to be lifted.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove battery hold-down bracket
   Locate the battery hold-down bracket at the base of the battery. Using a 12mm socket with extension, remove the hold-down bolt securing the bracket. Remove the bracket and set aside.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove battery from tray
   Carefully lift the battery straight up and out of the battery tray. Batteries are heavy (approximately 30-40 lbs) and should be lifted with proper technique. Keep the battery level to avoid spilling any electrolyte.
6. 6

   Inspect and clean battery tray
   Inspect the battery tray for corrosion, cracks, or damage. Clean any corrosion from the tray using a wire brush and baking soda solution if needed. Dry thoroughly before installing new battery. Inspect battery cables for damage or excessive corrosion.
7. 7

   Clean battery terminals
   Use a battery terminal cleaner or wire brush to clean the inside of both battery cable terminals and remove any corrosion buildup. Clean terminals ensure proper electrical contact with the new battery.
8. 8

   Install new battery
   Place the new battery into the battery tray, ensuring proper orientation with the positive terminal positioned correctly (passenger side front). The battery should sit flush and level in the tray.
9. 9

   Install hold-down bracket
   Position the hold-down bracket over the battery base. Thread in the hold-down bolt and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Ensure the bracket securely holds the battery without over-compressing the case.
   Torque spec

   Battery Hold-Down Bolt8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Connect positive battery terminal
    Place the positive (+) terminal clamp onto the positive battery post. Ensure the clamp is fully seated on the post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can damage the terminal or battery post.
    ⚠Do not overtighten battery terminal bolts. Excessive torque will damage the battery post
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Connect negative battery terminal
    Place the negative (-) terminal clamp onto the negative battery post. Ensure the clamp is fully seated on the post. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify both battery terminals are tight and properly secured
2. Replace any terminal protective covers
3. Remove battery memory saver if used

Verification

• Turn ignition to ON position and verify dashboard lights illuminate normally
• Start the engine and verify it cranks and starts normally
• Check that all electrical accessories function properly (radio, windows, lights)
• Verify no warning lights related to electrical system are illuminated
• Recalibrate power window auto-up/down function if necessary by fully opening then fully closing each window while holding the switch
• Reset clock and radio presets as needed

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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