If your Honda Accord is having trouble starting, or you see corrosion around the battery, you might need to replace the positive battery cable. This guide will show you exactly how do you replace a positive battery cable on Honda Accord, saving you a significant repair bill.
A faulty positive cable can cause a range of electrical issues, from intermittent starting problems to complete failure. Replacing it yourself is a very manageable project with the right tools and safety knowledge.
We’ll walk you through the entire process, from getting the correct part to the final connection. Safety is the absolute first priority when working with car batteries.
How Do You Replace A Positive Battery Cable On Honda Accord
Replacing the cable involves disconnecting the battery, removing the old cable from the battery terminal and its connection points, and installing the new one. The exact steps can vary slightly by model year, but the core process remains the same.
You’ll need to trace the cable from the battery to where it connects, usually to the starter motor and the fuse box. Taking pictures with your phone before you start is a great way to remember the routing.
Tools and Parts You Will Need
Gathering everything before you start makes the job go smoothly. You won’t want to stop halfway to find a tool.
- Replacement positive battery cable (Honda OEM or high-quality aftermarket for your specific Accord year)
- Socket set and wrenches (typically 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm)
- Safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves
- Wire brush or battery terminal cleaner
- Battery terminal protector spray (optional but recommended)
- Jack and jack stands (if the starter connection is hard to reach from above)
Critical Safety Precautions
Working on your car’s electrical system requires careful attention. A mistake can cause injury or damage to your vehicle’s computer systems.
- Always disconnect the NEGATIVE (black, -) terminal first. This prevents accidental short circuits.
- Never let a metal tool touch both battery terminals at the same time.
- Battery acid is corrosive. If you get any on your skin, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
- Work in a well-ventilated area, as batteries give off flammable gases.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
Follow these steps in order. If you feel unsure at any point, it’s okay to consult a professional mechanic.
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Park on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Open the hood and locate the battery.
- Put on your safety glasses and gloves.
- Using the correct size wrench, loosen the nut on the NEGATIVE terminal clamp.
- Carefully lift the negative cable off the terminal and secure it away from the battery. You can tuck it to the side.
- Now, loosen and remove the POSITIVE terminal clamp. Lift the positive cable away.
Step 2: Remove the Old Positive Cable
Now you can safetly work on removing the old cable. Start by tracing its path.
- The cable will run from the battery. It often has a branch that connects to the main fuse box or power distribution center.
- Locate the bolt securing this branch connection. Use your socket set to remove it and free the cable end.
- Next, trace the main cable down to the starter motor. This is usually on the lower side of the engine.
- You may need to jack up the front of the car and support it securely on jack stands to reach the starter connection. Never rely on just the jack.
- The starter connection is a large nut (often 12mm or 14mm) holding a thick wire post. Remove this nut and carefully pull the cable terminal off the stud.
- Unclip any plastic wire loom holders or brackets that secure the cable along its route. Take note of how its routed for the new cable.
- You can now completely remove the old cable from the vehicle.
Step 3: Prepare and Install the New Cable
Before putting the new cable in, it’s a good time to clean the connection points. This ensures the best possible electrical contact.
- Use your wire brush to clean the battery’s positive terminal post until it’s shiny.
- Clean the stud on the starter motor as well.
- Take your new cable and begin routing it exactly like the old one. Follow the same path through any clips or brackets.
- Connect the cable to the starter motor stud first. Slide the terminal on and tighten the nut firmly.
- Next, connect the branch connection to the fuse box or power distribution center. Tighten that bolt securely.
- Make sure all the wiring is secure in its clips and not touching any hot or moving engine parts.
Step 4: Reconnect the Battery
This step is done in the reverse order of disconnection. Getting the order right is important for safety.
- Place the positive cable clamp back onto the battery’s positive terminal post. Tighten the clamp nut until it is snug.
- Now, place the negative cable clamp onto the negative terminal post and tighten it.
- For added protection, you can spray a little battery terminal protector on each connection to prevent future corrosion.
Step 5: Test Your Work
Don’t close the hood just yet. You need to verify everything works correctly.
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position (but don’t start the engine). Check that dashboard lights, headlights, and interior lights come on.
- Now, try starting the engine. It should crank strongly and start up.
- If the car doesn’t start, turn the key off and double-check all connections, especially at the starter and fuse box. Ensure the battery terminals are tight.
- Once the engine starts and runs smoothly, turn it off and close the hood.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go perfectly on the first try. Here are a few common problems and their likely solutions.
- Car won’t start, no lights: The battery is likely not connected properly. Re-check both terminal connections for tightness and clean contact.
- Clicking sound but no crank: This often indicates a poor connection at the starter or a weak battery. Check the starter connection is tight. Your battery may also need a charge or replacement.
- Electrical accessories work, but engine won’t crank: The main cable to the starter may not be connected or is making a bad connection. Re-inspect that large nut on the starter stud.
If you’ve checked all connections and the problem persists, there may be another issue, such as a faulty starter solenoid or a problem with the ignition switch.
When to Call a Professional
While this is a doable DIY job, some situations warrant calling a mechanic. There’s no shame in seeking help to ensure the job is done right.
- If you are uncomfortable working under a vehicle that is jacked up.
- If the starter motor location on your specific Accord is extremely difficult to access.
- If after installation, you still have electrical gremlins or starting problems that you can’t trace.
- If the cable is part of a larger wiring harness that requires special tools to remove.
FAQ Section
How much does it cost to replace a positive battery cable on a Honda Accord?
If you do it yourself, the part cost is usually between $50 and $150. At a repair shop, with labor, you could expect to pay $150 to $300 or more, depending on your location and the car’s model year.
What are the signs of a bad positive battery cable?
Common signs include the car not starting, visible corrosion or green/white powder on the cable ends, flickering lights, or the cable feeling brittle and cracked. Intermittent starting problems are a classic symptom.
Can I drive with a damaged positive cable?
It is not recommended. A damaged cable can cause a sudden no-start situation, leave you stranded, or even create a short circuit that could lead to an electrical fire. It’s best to replace it as soon as you notice a problem.
Is the positive cable red?
Yes, in virtually all modern cars, the positive battery cable has a red plastic covering and the negative is black. The positive terminal may also have a red plastic cover and a plus (+) sign.
How long does it take to replace the cable?
For a beginner, allowing 1 to 2 hours is reasonable. If you’re familiar with basic car repairs, you might finish in about 45 minutes. Having the right tools makes a big difference in time.
Do I need to reset the car’s computer after disconnecting the battery?
On most Honda Accords, you may need to reset the power window auto-up/down feature and the radio presets. The engine computer will relearn its idle settings after a short drive, which is normal. Some models might have the check engine light come on temporarily but it should go off after a few drive cycles.