Materials:
- Replacement battery of the right type and size for your car
- 10 mm socket wrench
- Adjustable wrench
- Safety glasses
- Rubber gloves
Instructions:
1. Prepare the vehicle: Park the vehicle on a level surface, turn off the engine, and apply the parking brake. Ensure that the vehicle is in the "park" position (for automatic transmission) or in neutral gear (for manual transmission).
2. Open the hood: Locate the hood release lever inside the cabin, typically near the driver's footwell. Pull the lever to release the hood and then lift the hood to open it.
3. Turn off any unnecessary lights or electrical components: This step will help prevent any power drain on the electrical system while working on the battery.
4. Locate the battery: The battery is usually positioned on the passenger side of the engine bay, near the front. It is enclosed in a plastic case with red and black terminals.
5. Disconnect the negative terminal: Using a 10 mm socket wrench or an adjustable wrench, loosen the nut on the negative terminal (marked "-" or "NEG"). Remove the nut and washer, and then lift the negative terminal cable off the battery post.
6. Disconnect the positive terminal: Similarly, loosen the nut on the positive terminal (marked "+" or "POS") and remove it along with the washer. Lift the positive terminal cable off the battery post.
7. Remove the battery hold-down bracket: There may be a hold-down bracket that secures the battery in place. Remove the bolts or nuts holding the bracket using a 10 mm socket wrench or adjustable wrench, and then lift the bracket off the battery.
8. Remove the old battery: Once the negative terminal, positive terminal, and hold-down bracket (if applicable) are disconnected, you can remove the old battery from the engine bay by gently lifting it straight up.
9. Inspect the battery tray and terminals: Check the battery tray for any corrosion or damage. If there is any corrosion, you can clean it using a wire brush and a baking soda and water solution. Make sure the battery terminals are clean and free of corrosion as well.
10. Install the new battery: Place the new battery in the battery tray, aligning the terminals with the corresponding posts.
11. Reconnect the positive terminal: Replace the washer and the nut on the positive terminal, and tighten it securely using a 10 mm socket wrench or adjustable wrench.
12. Reconnect the negative terminal: Repeat the same process for the negative terminal, replacing the washer and nut and tightening it securely.
13. Reinstall any removed components: If you removed the hold-down bracket, reattach it now and tighten the bolts or nuts.
14. Close the hood: Once the battery is properly connected, close the hood of the vehicle.
Note: If you are replacing the battery with a different type or capacity than the original, it's important to consult the vehicle's owner manual or a reliable auto parts store to ensure you get the correct replacement battery for your Mazda Miata.
