How to Change the Battery in a PT Cruiser
The PT Cruiser was designed as a throwback to the cars and trucks of the 1940s and '50s, with long swoopy lines and a large front fascia. Problem is, that front fascia may look good, but it also sits directly on top of the battery, making removal of the battery a bit of a tricky process. Fortunately, it can be done--it just takes a few more steps than it would on another car.
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Things You'll Need
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Open-end wrench set
- 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set
- Replacement battery
Instructions
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1
Pop the hood and locate the air intake tube that runs to the throttle body. Unscrew the tube from the throttle body using a flathead screwdriver, then pop the clips that secure the top of the air box to the bottom, and lift out the intake tube and cover.
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2
Pull out the air filter and set it to the side. If you need to replace the air filter, now is the best time to do it, since it's open and out of the way. Grab the air box on the fenderwell and lift it up to release the clips that secure it to the body. This is going to provide room for the battery to come out from under the front fascia.
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3
Disconnect the negative battery terminal from the battery using an open-end wrench. Repeat the process for the positive battery terminal. Unbolt the battery from the battery tie-down using a 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Pull the battery out from under the fascia, toward where the air box was, then lift it out of the engine bay.
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4
Lift the replacement battery into the engine bay, to where the air box was originally. Slide the battery under the front fascia into the stock tray and then bolt it down in place using a ratchet and socket.
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5
Reconnect the battery terminals to the battery, positive terminal first, using an open-end wrench. Push the bottom of the air box back into the engine compartment, then place the air filter into the air box.
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6
Place the air intake tube onto the throttle body and secure it with the stock hose clamp and a flathead screwdriver. Clip the air box cover onto the bottom half of the air box. Start the vehicle to make sure that everything is connected correctly.
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