Examination
Periodically inspect the entire length of each battery wire for damage, cracked or burned insulation and corrosion. Poor condition of the wire lugs can cause difficulty in starting the engine and deterioration of its performance.
If your car's radio is equipped with an anti-theft system, make sure you know the correct activation code before disconnecting the battery. Before disconnecting the wire, refer to Section Anti-theft audio system and instrument panel language.
If, after connecting the battery, a message in a different language appears on the instrument panel display, refer to Section Anti-theft audio system and instrument panel language.
Check the ends of the wires on the wire terminals to the battery terminals for cracks, loose wires, and corrosion. The presence of a white loose substance under the insulation of the wire lug is a sign of corrosion and the wire should either be cleaned or replaced. Check the terminals for distortion, serviceability of the fixing bolts and for corrosion.
Replacement
When disconnecting wires, always disconnect the negative wire first and connect it last. This reduces the risk of accidental short circuits. Even if only the positive wire is being replaced, be sure to disconnect the negative wire from the battery first (for further information on removing battery wires, see Chapter Car maintenance).
1. Disconnect the old wires from the battery, then take them in different directions and disconnect from the starter traction relay and housing. Note the routing of each wire so you can install it correctly later.
2. If the old wires need to be replaced, take them with you to the store. It is vital to replace the wires with identical ones. The wires have features that make them easy to distinguish: the positive wire is usually red, larger in cross section and has a larger diameter tip; the negative wire is usually black in color, has a smaller cross section and has a slightly smaller diameter terminal lug.
3. Clean the threads of the traction relay terminals and housing from rust and corrosion with a wire brush.
To prevent future corrosion, apply a thin coat of battery corrosion inhibitor or petroleum jelly to the terminal threads.
4. Attach the wires to the traction relay and housing terminals and tighten the nut/bolt tightly.
5. Before connecting a new wire to the battery, make sure that the wire reaches the terminal without tension.
6. Connect the positive wire first, then the negative.