How to Replace the Battery in a PT Cruiser

Unlike most vehicles, the PT cruiser battery is hidden underneath the air intake cover. However, a dead battery in a PT cruiser must be replaced. In order to remove the battery, the air filter case must be removed. The process is simple and can be done within 10 to 15 minutes.

• 1

  Park the vehicle and turn off its ignition. Open and secure the PT Cruiser's hood. Locate the air intake on the driver's side of the vehicle, under the vehicle's hood. Remove the clamps on both sides of the air intake cover. Remove the screw clamp holding the air intake cover on the air intake hose by turning the screw counterclockwise using a screwdriver.

• 2

  Remove the air intake cover by pulling it free from the air intake hose. Remove the air filter from the air filter case.

• 3

  Remove the air filter case by pulling it straight up, which may require few good pulls on the case. The air filter is attached by plastic pegs located underneath the case

• 4

  Remove the 1/2-inch socket screw by turning it counterclockwise with a 1/2-inch socket wrench. Using a wrench or pliers, loosen the positive and negative terminal clamps on the battery by turning the nuts counterclockwise. Pop the terminal clamps up using a flat-head screwdriver. Remove the negative (black) clamp, then the positive (red) clamp.

• 5

  Grasp the old battery by the handle and pull it straight out. Use caution as to not tip or spill battery acid on yourself or on the ground. If you spill any acid on you, stop and immediately rinse the affected part of your body thoroughly with running water.

• 6

  Install the new battery by lowering it under the air intake cover where the old battery was located. Ensure the new battery placed so the positive terminal will connect with the positive terminal cord and the negative terminal will connect with the negative terminal cord. Use caution to not tip the battery as it may cause some battery acid to spill. If this happens, stop and immediately rinse the affected area thoroughly with running water.

• 7

  Remove the plastic covers on the new battery covering the terminal connection tips. Replace the terminal clamps onto the new battery. Tighten the nuts by turning the clockwise with either a wrench or pliers. Be sure the nuts are tight.

• 8

  Replace the 1/2-inch bolt and tighten it with the 1/2-inch socket wrench. Replace the air filter case, aligning the pegs up and pushing down on the case.

• 9

  Replace the air filter into the air filter case. Replace the air intake cover into the air intake hose and tighten the screw clamp using a screwdriver, turning clockwise.

• 10

  Clamp on the air intake cover. After you have finished, be sure to wash your hands.