Looks like I need a new battery for my '98 GS300. Son left his passenger door open and I had to jump start it for the second time this month. First time it was open for over 8 hours, this time only 2 hours but both times I had to use jumper cables. I've replaced many batteries over the years but not in about 15 years, never kept a car long enough. Is this something I can do myself or will a dealer be needed due to all the electronics on the car? Anything I need to watch out for?

I'd rather do it myself as I'd need to travel 60 miles to the nearest dealer if they need to do it. But I need to do it one way or the other before I have to travel next week and leave it parked at O'Hare in the cold which I am sure would kill the current one totally if I don't replace it.

Thanks for any help you can offer.

 

Just get the battery and replace it yourself. Nothing special to it

 

Does anyone know if batteries you buy are already charged?

Should the battery be swapped with the car running?

 

I've replaced 3 batteries in other cars and they were precharged. It would suck if they weren't.

Definitely replace the batter with engine off.

 

Definitely change it yourself--it only takes a 10mm socket and wrench, and about 10 minutes to do it properly.

BATTERY REMOVAL

When removing the battery, you'll first need to take off the battery holder bracket (a 10 mm deep socket, I believe). Next (very important), disconnect the old battery's (-) terminal first and make sure it's away from battery posts--this will minimize any sparks and explosion risk. Lastly, remove the (+) terminal connector (you may have a red cover on top of this terminal--just pull it up to get it out of the way) and make sure that it's away from the battery posts. Remove the battery from the tray. If the terminal connectors are corroded, it's a good time to use a battery wire-brush cleaner to clean them (about $2 from an autoparts store).

BATTERY INSTALLATION

Place the new battery in the tray. Make sure that the (+) and (-) terminal connectors match up with the (+) and (-) posts on the battery (markings are on the battery etched in plastic by the posts). Secure the battery holder bracket and tighten the battery down--don't over tighten. Next, for the terminals, first place the (+) terminal connector on the (+) battery post and tighten it (10-15 foot lbs)--very important to start with the (+) terminal during battery installation. Place the red terminal cover over the (+) post, if you had one. Next, place the (-) terminal connector on the (-) battery post and tighten it (10-15 foot lbs). Test the connection by starting up your car and make sure it all works properly.

SIDE NOTES

FYI, do NOT under any circumstances allow for a short circuit between the (+) and (-) terminals (i.e. inadvertently placing a wrench bewteen the 2 posts--you can cause a very large spark and may explode your battery). Keep all tools away from the terminals when not working on them.

 

you crack me up man....

 

I appreciate the counsel and quick response. Guess I will pick it up today and install it tonight.

 

Very simple procedure as long as it is big enough. If not, invest in a $3 battery tray from Autozone.

-Anthony

 

Batteries are usually good for 3-4 years. My stock GS4 battery died last year, I replaced it with a Sears Diehard.

 

Oh you're no fun, i wanted someone to start a fireworks display under the hood..you know....for **** and giggles!

 

Since you have a problem with your doors being left open maybe you should get a Optima yellow top. You could leave the door open 30 times and still recharge it....no bull.

 

Since we're on the subject of batteries, I left a post on the audio section. Optima or Rockford Fosgate?

Here's the link:
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...hreadid=109924