How to Replace the Battery in a Saturn Ion

From 2003 to 2007, the Saturn Ion was Saturn's answer to the first-time buyers who were looking for a compact car that was very affordable. You can still find Ions on the used market for sale that you can get for a pretty good price. Follow these steps if you need to replace the battery, which is usually required every 5 years or so.

Things You'll Need

  • New 12-volt battery
  • Battery terminal puller
  • Wire brushes
  • Socket wrench
  • Gloves
  • Old rags
  • Reach the battery easily behind the headlight on the driver's side.

  • Take off the cable ends from the battery terminals with a battery terminal puller. Remove the negative cable first.

  • Lift the battery out of the compartment. Safely dispose of used battery at an auto parts store, which will often take it as a trade-in, or bring it to a recycling center.

  • Use a wire brush to clean the tray that holds the battery. Wipe it off with a damp cloth and let it dry before replacing new battery.

  • Clean the insides of the connector cables with a pointed wire brush. Keep your gloves on at all times to avoid getting acid on your hands.

  • Place the new battery on the battery tray. Attach the correct cable on each terminal and tighten securely with pliers or socket wrench.