Here's a general guide:
1. Gather Your Supplies:
* New battery: Make sure you get a battery with the correct group size (found in your owner's manual or on your old battery).
* Wrench or socket: You'll need the right size to remove the battery terminal clamps (usually 10mm or 13mm).
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from acid splashes.
* Gloves: Protect your hands from acid.
* Baking soda and water: Have a mixture ready to neutralize any battery acid spills.
* Optional: Battery terminal cleaner: This helps ensure a good connection.
2. Prepare the Vehicle:
* Park on a level surface: This prevents rolling.
* Engage the parking brake: Essential for safety.
* Turn off the vehicle: Completely.
* Locate the battery: It's usually in the engine compartment, but sometimes under the rear passenger seat in some models. Consult your owner's manual if you can't find it.
3. Disconnect the Battery:
* Negative terminal first: Locate the negative terminal (marked with a "-" symbol). Loosen and remove the clamp using your wrench.
* Positive terminal second: Locate the positive terminal (marked with a "+" symbol). Loosen and remove the clamp.
4. Remove the Battery Hold-Down:
* The battery is likely secured by a clamp or strap. Consult your owner's manual for how to release it. This often involves loosening a bolt or unclipping a retainer.
5. Lift Out the Old Battery:
* Carefully lift the battery out of its tray. It can be heavy, so be cautious.
6. Install the New Battery:
* Place the new battery in the tray: Ensure it's seated correctly.
* Secure the hold-down: Tighten the clamp or strap to secure the battery in place.
7. Connect the Battery:
* Positive terminal first: Attach the positive clamp to the positive terminal.
* Negative terminal second: Attach the negative clamp to the negative terminal. Tighten both clamps securely.
8. Clean Up:
* Clean up any spilled acid immediately with the baking soda and water mixture.
9. Double-Check:
* Make sure both terminals are securely connected.
* Start your vehicle to ensure the new battery is working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Acid is corrosive: Be extremely careful to avoid getting battery acid on your skin or clothes.
* Radio codes: Some Chrysler 200 models may require you to re-enter your radio code after disconnecting the battery. Check your owner's manual for instructions.
* Electronic memory: Some vehicle systems may lose their memory settings after the battery is disconnected. You may need to reprogram some settings.
* If you're uncomfortable: Don't hesitate to take your vehicle to a professional for battery replacement. It's a relatively simple job, but safety is paramount.
Remember to always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions and diagrams relevant to your vehicle's year and model. This guide provides general steps, but your Chrysler 200 may have slight variations.
