When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Just replaced my battery, and due to the tight space and a bit of frustration, I broke or pulled out what appears to be a ground wire(?) from the negative side connector. There are four wires in the cable - three appear to be connected in the top half of the connector, and the single wire probably goes into the lower connector. But, I can't see where it connects. Can anyone help? Thanks!
I don't have any information on the negative battery cable connector wiring that would show pin # and wire colors. The few threads I recall were about the wire breaking, not pulling loose from the connector. Maybe you can see a connector pin without a wire in the barrel. Fortunately, I had no issues (except big hands) when I changed my battery last year.
Thanks, Ron. I have the same issue (big hands), and apparently clumsy ones. I haven't seen any open holes for a wire connection, but asked a friend if he'd look at his C7 and determine where the wire goes. Waiting for his response, so hopefully will have it figured out soon. Thanks again!
There should be a small wire connected to a lug on the actual battery clamp (see yellow painted nut in above pic)? I think this is the problematic wire.
Okay, you guys are great! I just overlooked the obvious, thinking it had to go in the connector. Anyway, you were correct and the battery is in. Thanks!!!
Negative terminal wire broken during battery change
I am nervous about possiblely damaging the electrical/computer on my 2014 3LT. Am I understanding correctly that connecting the new battery while the little wire is broken will NOT damage the car? I am not clear on it's purpose and what it's attached to behind the panel.
As stated in Post #10 the wire goes to the rear "lighter socket" that can be used for a battery maintainer. No black wire and the socket is dead, and battery charger won't work.
If you are careful, the wire should be ok. If you disconnect or break it - fix it.
As stated in Post #10 the wire goes to the rear "lighter socket" that can be used for a battery maintainer. No black wire and the socket is dead, and battery charger won't work.
If you are careful, the wire should be ok. If you disconnect or break it - fix it.
No other harm to the car.
Ron
where can u get a replacement wire if u broke off during changing battery? The black one running from the back
where can u get a replacement wire if u broke off during changing battery? The black one running from the back
Been a few years since I posted that "estimate" of where the wire goes. I'm NOT a 100% sure I was right. As suggested, easy check with a volt meter to see if you have power to that rear plug. In any case If I found it was broke I would splice in a jumper wire. In my case I would solder BUT you could used simple metal splice fittings, crimp and cover with electrical tape or shrink tubing.
There's nothing special about the wire. Just use stranded 16 gauge or heavier. It is available at any auto parts or hardware store. Splice / solder the wires together and use heat shrink insulation or electrical tape over the bare joint. As noted above, twisting the wires together, soldering, and using heat shrink insulation is preferred.
Just splice a longer wire on the broken end of the wire coming from the car and crimp a terminal on it. Then fasten to the battery negative terminal clamp in the proper location. Having a couple of inches added to the wire helps a lot when removing/installing the battery. If the wire isn't connected you will see a charge system error on the DIC.
Battery ground wire mishap
