Changing the batteries on most vehicles is a pretty simple task, requiring a ratchet, a wrench and a little bit of time. On a Dodge Stratus, the job is a bit more complicated because of the location of the battery. It's wedged in the front fender well, making it necessary to remove the tire to get the battery out. Although it can be frustrating, it's not impossible to do at home with basic tools.
Park the vehicle on a level surface and set the emergency brake. Raise up the front of the vehicle using the jack and set it on the jack stands. Make sure that the vehicle is solidly on the stands before crawling underneath it. Remove the driver's side front tire using the tire iron and set it to the side, out of the work space.
Unbolt the plastic inner fender from the body using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Remove the plastic clips on the rest of the inner fender using a flathead screwdriver. Then pull back the inner fender to expose the battery, just under the bumper.
Disconnect the negative terminal from the battery using an open-end wrench, then repeat the process for the positive terminal in the same manner. Unbolt the battery tie-down from the car using a 3/8-inch ratchet and socket, then slide the battery out of the fender well.
