How to Replace Battery Cables in a Nissan Sentra

Some Nissan Sentra owners only think about the battery cables and terminals once the car becomes difficult to start or after it won't start at all. The battery and terminals become a major concern, however, once the vehicle exhibits problems starting. Check if the cables and terminals are loose or corroded. If the terminals appear deteriorated by corrosion or if the jaws are touching, you must replace the cables.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
Things You'll Need
Gloves
Box wrench or cable pliers
Hammer
Wire brush or cable cleaner
Dry rag
Battery cables
1

Turn off the engine, put on gloves and find the battery, which sits up high in the front of the Nissan Sentra just behind the headlight on the driver's side.
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 grounded on the frame beside the headlight. Remove the end of the cable with the wrench. Track the positive cable to its connection on the starter solenoid on the backside of the engine and remove it with the wrench.
4

Clean the battery posts with a small wire brush or cable cleaner. Wipe off any residual dust with a clean, dry cloth.
5

Attach the new positive cable first by reversing the process in step 3. Always reattach the negative cable last and then start the car to ensure the connections are secure on your Nissan Sentra.

Tips & Warnings

Wear gloves when working on your cables to protect them from the acid in the battery. If you don't have any gloves, wash your hands immediately after you've finished.

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