1. Gather Your Tools and Materials:
* New battery: Make sure you get a battery with the correct group size for your 1999 Chrysler LHS. Check your owner's manual or the sticker on your old battery for the correct group size (e.g., Group 35). Auto parts stores can help you find the right one.
* Wrench: You'll need a wrench to loosen the battery terminals. A 10mm wrench is likely needed, but double-check your car.
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from acid splashes.
* Gloves: Protect your hands from acid and corrosion.
* Baking soda and water solution: Have this ready in case of battery acid spills. (Mix a paste or weak solution).
* Optional: Battery terminal cleaner.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Park on a level surface: This prevents rolling and makes access easier.
* Engage the parking brake: Essential for safety.
* Turn off the vehicle: Completely power down the car.
* Disconnect any aftermarket electronics: This could include car stereos, GPS devices, or other accessories connected directly to the battery.
3. Disconnect the Battery Terminals:
* Negative terminal first: Locate the negative (-) terminal (usually black). Use your wrench to loosen and remove the nut and cable clamp. Set the cable aside, away from the battery and any metal parts of the car.
* Positive terminal next: Locate the positive (+) terminal (usually red). Loosen and remove the nut and cable clamp. Set this cable aside as well, away from the battery and any metal parts of the car.
4. Remove the Old Battery:
* Secure the Battery Hold-Down: Many cars have a clamp or strap holding the battery in place. You may need to loosen this with a wrench or your hand (depending on the design) before you can remove the battery.
* Lift out the battery: Carefully lift the battery out of the tray. It might be heavy, so be prepared.
5. Install the New Battery:
* Place the new battery: Carefully place the new battery into the tray, ensuring it sits correctly.
* Reconnect the terminals: Connect the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal. Tighten the nuts securely.
6. Clean Up:
* Clean the battery tray and terminals: Use a battery terminal cleaner or a wire brush to remove corrosion.
* Dispose of the old battery properly: Take your old battery to a recycling center or auto parts store that accepts used batteries.
7. Test Everything:
* Start the car: Make sure everything works correctly. Check your lights, radio, and other electronic components.
Important Considerations:
* Corrosion: If there's significant corrosion on the terminals, clean them thoroughly before connecting the new battery.
* Acid Spills: If you spill any battery acid, immediately neutralize it with the baking soda and water solution. Avoid getting acid on your skin or eyes.
* Memory Settings: Some vehicles might lose radio presets or other settings after disconnecting the battery.
If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it's always best to take your car to a qualified mechanic or auto parts store. They can perform the battery replacement quickly and safely.
