There's something so very endearing about the Mazda3. It's just the right size, handles well, has ample space and it looks good too. We like them and if you're reading this, then we're guessing that you do too - you bought one!
Part of owning a car is the maintenance thereof. Sooner or later you're going to be faced with the task of having to change the battery. Batteries don't last forever and repeated cycling can only do so much for the lifespan of the cells inside the battery.
You may be tempted to get the dealers or the battery centre to handle this task but if you know which way loosens a nut*, you can tackle this job yourself and save a bit in the process.
Recommended Reading: Top 3 things you need to know about the Mazda Mazda3
Here's how you do it:
Tools you'll need:
10mm spanner or 10mm socket and ratchet
A torch
How to:
1. Open the bonnet using the latch under the dashboard on the driver's side.
2. Open the bonnet and prop it up with the stay.
3. The battery is located on the passenger side, against the firewall.
4. Undo the negative terminal (Black / -) with the 10mm spanner and remove the clamp from the post.
5. Lift the plastic cover on the positive terminal (Red / +).
6. Undo the 10mm nut and remove the clamp from the post, taking care not to let it touch the body or anything metal.
7. The battery brace is next. Use the 10mm spanner to loosen both the 10mm nuts on either end of the brace.
8. With the nut loosened, the rods that hook into the lower section of the battery tray can be unclipped.
9. Place the brace and rods one side.
10. Remove the battery.
11. With the battery out of the car, remove it from the insulator (if applicable).
12. Place the new battery in the insulator (if applicable) and place it in the battery tray.
13. Place the brace and rod over the battery and hook either rod into the lower section of the tray. The torch may be of assistance here.
14. Tighten down the 10mm nuts until the brace rests snug on the battery.
15. Reinstall the terminal clamps in the reverse order of removal ie; positive first, then negative.
16. Ensure all tools are removed from the engine bay and close the bonnet.
17. Test the power delivery and note that most settings would have been returned to factory default.
* Anti-clockwise is loosen, clockwise is tighten.
Recommended Reading:
New vs used Mazda3: what are the top 6 differences?
