How to Replace a Battery in a 2006 Sienna Van

You can change your Sienna's battery yourself to save money.

The battery is a key component of the 2006 Toyota Sienna's electrical system. It provides the electrical charge needed to start the engine and power the van's radio, lights, horn and heating system. The Sienna's battery requires no maintenance beyond occasionally cleaning acid deposits from its posts, and it can be boosted with battery cables attached to another car's battery should it run low. It eventually must be replaced, however. Replacing the battery can be accomplished by most people who have minimal mechanical skills.

Things You'll Need

• Pliers

Instructions

1. Remove the two nuts holding the battery's small metal stabilizing rod in place. Hold the rod with one hand after you have removed the first nut to prevent the rod from falling into the engine department.

2. Loosen the nut on the negative battery cable and remove it from the positive battery post. The negative post has a small minus (-) sign engraved next to it.

3. Loosen the nut on the positive battery cable and remove it from the positive battery post. The positive post has a small plus (+) sign engraved next to it.

4. Lift the plastic cover from the battery. Lift the battery from the car, and set it aside.

5. Lower the new battery into place. Replace the plastic cover.

6. Connect the positive cable to the positive post and tighten the nut with the pliers. Connect the negative cable to the negative post and tighten the nut with the pliers.

7. Place the stabilizing rod across the battery. Replace and tighten the nuts that hold the stabilizing rod in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Used batteries are considered hazardous waste. Take them to either an auto repair facility or battery retailer for proper disposal.

References

• "Toyota Sienna Haynes Repair Manual (1998-2009)"; Haynes Publishing; 2010