How to Replace Battery Cables in a Nissan Pathfinder

Battery cables are one of the most underserviced items on a vehicle. If your Nissan Pathfinder doesn't want to start, but the battery is okay, then it might be your cables. Battery cables and terminals sometimes become loose, corroded or build up a resistance due to heat and oil contamination. If they appear worn, then replace the battery cables. Nissan recommends you use genuine Nissan parts on your Pathfinder.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Gloves
Box wrench or cable pliers
Hammer
Wire brush or cable cleaner
Dry rag
Battery cables
Suggest Edits
1

Locate the battery. It's on the driver's side near the front bumper on the Nissan Pathfinder.
2

Loosen the bolt on the negative battery cable with the minus sign first, using a box wrench or cable clamp pliers. Carefully twist the cable end off the post, tapping it gently with a small hammer, if it sticks. Repeat the process on the positive cable.
3

Follow the negative cable to where it's connected to the body of the Nissan Pathfinder on the driver side fender. Remove the end of the cable with the wrench. Track the positive cable to its connection on the starter solenoid on the driver side of the engine and remove it with the wrench.
4

Clean the battery posts with a small wire brush or cable cleaner and wipe clean with a dry cloth.
5

Attach the new positive cable first by reversing the process in Step 3. Reattach the negative cable last and start the SUV to ensure the connections are secure on your Nissan Pathfinder.

Tips & Warnings

Wear gloves when working on your cables to protect them from the acid in the battery. If you choose not to wear gloves, wash your hands thoroughly after you're finished.

Remove both cables from the battery, even if you're replacing only one, to avoid a short in the electrical system.