How to Remove the Battery in a Silhouette
by Melissa Kelly
The Oldsmobile Silhouette is a minivan made from 1990 through 2004. The battery stores electricity from the alternator, which enables the car's electrical systems to work. If properly cared for, a battery can last anywhere from three to five years. However, when the time comes to remove your old battery, it is a relatively quick task that requires only a basic tool.
Step 1
Open the hood of the van and locate the battery on the right side of the vehicle.
Step 2
Remove the bolt holding the electrical center in place and reposition it in a way that allows access to the battery.
Step 3
Remove the plastic cover of the wiper assembly.
Step 4
Remove the nut holding the suspension bar in place using a wrench. Place the nut aside.
Step 5
Rotate the suspension bar so that the suspension bar is no longer covering the battery.
Step 6
Disconnect the battery cables by removing the black (negative) cable first followed by the red (positive) cable. You may need to loosen the bolts with an adjustable wrench in order to remove the cables.
Step 7
Remove the battery from the plastic mount tray by grabbing onto the handle and lifting it up and out of the compartment. You may need to wiggle it around and twist slightly to remove it from the tight space.
References
- "General Motors Chevrolet Lumina APV, Oldsmobile Silhouette and Pontiac Trans Sport Automotive Repair Manual"; Haynes, J; 2003
- Popular Mechanics: Battery and Negative Terminal- How to Disconnect a Battery
Tips
- Battery replacement should take place in the reverse order of removal. Ensure all nuts on the suspension bar are replaced and tightened to the appropriate specification.
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
Writer Bio
Melissa Kelly is a freelance writer from Indianapolis who focuses on scientific and medical topics. Kelly attended Marian College where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. Recently, she completed her Master's in business communications & project management.
