1. Gather Your Tools and Materials:
* New battery: Make sure you get a battery with the correct group size for your Sebring. Check your old battery or the owner's manual for this information.
* Wrench: You'll need a wrench (usually 10mm or 13mm, but check your car) to loosen the battery terminal clamps. A ratchet wrench makes this easier.
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from acid splashes.
* Gloves: Protect your hands from acid.
* Baking soda and water: Have this mixture ready in case of acid spills. It neutralizes battery acid.
* Optional: Battery terminal cleaner: This can help ensure a good connection with the new battery.
2. Safety First:
* Disconnect the negative terminal first: Locate the black negative (-) cable and loosen the clamp with your wrench. Remove the cable.
* Disconnect the positive terminal: Locate the red positive (+) cable and loosen the clamp. Remove the cable.
3. Remove the Old Battery:
* Locate the battery hold-down clamp: This is usually a metal clamp or strap securing the battery in place. You may need a wrench or other tool to loosen or remove it.
* Lift out the old battery: Carefully lift the battery out of the tray. It can be heavy, so be prepared.
4. Install the New Battery:
* Position the new battery: Carefully place the new battery in the tray, ensuring it's seated correctly.
* Reconnect the hold-down clamp: Secure the new battery in place with the clamp.
* Connect the positive (+) terminal: Attach the red positive cable to the positive terminal.
* Connect the negative (-) terminal: Attach the black negative cable to the negative terminal. Always connect the negative last.
5. Clean Up:
* Clean any spilled battery acid immediately: Use the baking soda and water mixture to neutralize any spills.
* Dispose of the old battery properly: Take it to a recycling center or auto parts store that accepts used batteries.
Important Considerations:
* Radio Code: Disconnecting the battery might erase your radio's preset stations and require a code to reactivate it. Check your owner's manual for the code retrieval process.
* Memory Settings: Other electronic settings in your car may also be reset.
* Battery Type: Ensure the new battery is the same type (e.g., standard, AGM) as the old one.
* If you are uncomfortable with any of these steps, take your car to a qualified mechanic. It's better to be safe than sorry when dealing with car batteries.
This guide provides general instructions. Slight variations might exist depending on your specific Sebring model. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate and detailed instructions.
