How to Replace Battery Cables in a Chevy Impala

If your Chevy Impala isn't starting, and the battery isn't the source of the problem, check the battery cables. Look for wear or corrosion on the cables. Since the battery is very snugly in its holder, you'll have to remove it to replace the cables. Follow these few simple directions to replace the battery cables.

Instructions

1

Locate the Chevy Impala's battery on the passenger side in a tight spot up against the interior wall. Wear gloves before handling the battery to protect your skin from any battery acid that might be on it.

2

Loosen the bolt on the black negative battery cable with a box wrench or cable clamp pliers. Wiggle the cable end off the post. Repeat the process on the red positive cable.

3

Remove the black brace that keeps the battery in place. The battery will become loose when you unscrew this holder, so be prepared to hold onto it.

4

Undo the air hose that's directly behind the battery. Lay the cables to the side so they don't touch anything while you remove the battery. It's a tight fit, so you may have to work with it for a bit.

5

Clean the battery terminal posts with a small wire brush or cable cleaner and wipe them clean with a dry cloth before putting the battery back in the car.

6

Follow the negative cable to where it's connected to the Chevy Impala's body on the inside wall. Remove the end of the cable with the wrench. Track the positive cable to its connection on the starter solenoid on the side of the engine. Remove it with the wrench.

7

Attach the new positive cable first, reversing the process in Step 6, and then attach the negative cable to its grounding position. Always take off the negative cable first and reattach it last to avoid producing sparks in the engine compartment that could ignite trapped fuel fumes.

8

Put the battery back in its holder and replace the cables on the posts, putting the positive side on first. Reattach the holder and start the Chevy Impala to ensure that the connections are working.