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Ford Mustang V6 and Mustang GT 1994-2004: How to Replace Battery

The battery serves as the heart of the Mustang's electrical system. It is tasked with storing enough power to rotate the engine on startup over 200 RPM's. Batteries must maintain their stored power level, otherwise irreversible damage can result. Fortunately, battery replacement is a simple procedure.

By Weston Chadwick - September 23, 2015
Contributors: MrSdways

This article applies to the Ford Mustang V6 and Mustang GT (1994-2004).

The battery contains electrolytes that contact rows of metal plates built inside. The chemical reaction taking place when this contact occurs generates electricity, which is used throughout your vehicle. The battery must power many accessories, including the lighting, radio, and heat as well as air condition blower motor. If an over-charge or under-charge problem is present, there is a high probability the battery will not function properly again. Batteries are susceptible to damage from extreme temperatures and vibration. Even with proper care and maintenance, over the course of several years batteries lose their charging capacity. Check the manufacture date on your current battery to see if it's still under warranty. Warranties commonly range between two to four years.

Materials Needed

  • 1/4" or 3/8" ratchet
  • 8mm socket
  • 4"-8" extension
  • Battery terminal protector
  • Rubber gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Electrical tape (optional)

Remember to wear gloves and safety glasses during the replacement because battery acid is very corrosive.

Step 1 – Remove the negative battery cable

Turn the nut on the negative cable (black in color) counterclockwise with a ratchet and 8mm socket. Once the cable is loose enough, wiggle it off the terminal and place it in an area where it cannot come into accidental contact with the battery terminal. You can wrap it in electrical tape, as well.

Figure 1. Removing the negative battery cable.

Step 2 – Remove the positive battery cable

Open the black battery cable cover. Grab the cover on the side where the cable exits, and then pull it upwards. Remove the positive (red) battery cable with an 8mm socket.

Figure 2. Removing the positive battery cable.

Step 3 – Remove the battery hold down block bolt

On the left side of the battery tray you will see a 8mm bolt that holds a block known as the battery hold down block. This block fits into a slit on the side of the battery, keeping it from moving. Once you remove the bolt, the block can be lifted out of the engine bay.

Figure 3. The red circle indicates the location of the hold down block bolt.

Step 4 – Replace the battery

Lift the battery out of the engine bay. Make sure the battery isn't catching onto cables and wiring while you're lifting it.

Remove the plastic covers on the battery terminals if there are any. Spray some battery terminal protector on the terminals, then lift and place the battery onto the battery tray. Install the battery hold down block by placing the l-shaped side of the block against the battery. Tighten down the block until the battery no longer moves. Install the positive battery cable, and then the negative to finish the install.

Figure 4. The l-shaped portion of the hold down block.

Featured Video: How to Change the Battery in a Ford Mustang

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