2017 Gmc Acadia Battery Replacement

Replacing the battery in your 2017 GMC Acadia is a task you can typically handle yourself with the right tools and a little patience. This process, once understood, can save you money and time compared to taking your vehicle to a mechanic.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need. This includes:

• A new battery that is compatible with your 2017 GMC Acadia. Check your owner's manual or a parts store for the correct battery group size.
• A wrench set, including a socket wrench and extension. Commonly, a 10mm wrench or socket is used.
• Gloves to protect your hands from battery acid and grime.
• Safety glasses to protect your eyes.
• A battery terminal cleaner or a wire brush to clean corrosion.
• A battery terminal protector spray or grease to prevent future corrosion.
• Optional: A memory saver device. This small device plugs into the cigarette lighter or OBD II port and provides power to the vehicle's computer while the battery is disconnected, preventing loss of settings like radio presets and seat positions.

Locating the Battery

The battery in a 2017 GMC Acadia is often located under the rear passenger seat, on the passenger side of the vehicle. Accessing it requires a few steps:

1. Move the front passenger seat as far forward as possible.
2. Locate the handle or strap under the rear passenger seat cushion.
3. Pull the handle or strap upwards to release the seat cushion from its retaining clips. It may require some force.
4. Lift the seat cushion up and forward to expose the battery cover.

Removing the Battery Cover

Once the rear seat is lifted, you will see a plastic cover protecting the battery. This cover is usually held in place by clips or fasteners. Detach these to gain access to the battery terminals.

Disconnecting the Old Battery

This is a crucial step where safety is paramount. Proceed cautiously:

1. Put on your safety glasses and gloves.
2. Using the correct size wrench (likely 10mm), loosen the nut on the negative (-) battery terminal. It's typically black.
3. Carefully remove the negative cable from the terminal and tuck it away so it doesn't accidentally touch the terminal.
4. Repeat the process for the positive (+) battery terminal. It's typically red.
5. Inspect the battery terminals and cables for corrosion.

Cleaning Terminals and Tray

Before installing the new battery, take this opportunity to clean the battery terminals and the battery tray:

• Use a battery terminal cleaner or a wire brush to remove any corrosion from the battery terminals.
• Clean the battery tray to remove any debris or acid residue.

Installing the New Battery

Now, install the new battery, reversing the disconnection process:

1. Carefully lift the old battery out of the tray. Dispose of it properly at a recycling center or auto parts store.
2. Place the new battery into the tray. Ensure it is oriented correctly.
3. Connect the positive (+) battery cable to the positive terminal. Tighten the nut securely.
4. Connect the negative (-) battery cable to the negative terminal. Tighten the nut securely.

Securing the Battery and Replacing the Cover

Make sure the battery is properly secured:

• If your Acadia has a battery hold-down clamp, ensure it is properly installed and tightened.

Then, replace the battery cover:

• Reattach the plastic battery cover, securing it with its clips or fasteners.

Replacing the Seat Cushion

Finally, put the rear seat cushion back in place:

1. Align the seat cushion with the retaining clips.
2. Press down firmly on the seat cushion until it clicks into place.

Post-Installation Checks

After installing the new battery, perform a few checks:

• Start the vehicle to ensure the battery is working correctly.
• Check your radio presets and other settings. If you didn't use a memory saver, you may need to reset them.

Tips for Applying This Knowledge

• Maintenance is Key: Regularly inspect your battery terminals for corrosion. Cleaning them every few months can extend the life of your battery and prevent starting problems.
• Keep Records: Note the date you replaced your battery. Most batteries have a lifespan of 3-5 years, so knowing when it was last replaced helps you anticipate future replacements.
• Jump Starting: Knowing where your battery is located is essential if you ever need a jump start. You can quickly access the terminals and connect the jumper cables.
• Emergency Preparedness: Familiarizing yourself with this process ensures you're prepared for unexpected battery failures, especially if you frequently travel to remote areas.
• Teach Others: Share this knowledge with family members or friends who also own vehicles. Empowering others with basic car maintenance skills is invaluable.

Checklist

• Gather necessary tools: wrench set, gloves, safety glasses, battery terminal cleaner, protector.
• Locate the battery under the rear passenger seat.
• Disconnect the negative (-) terminal first, then the positive (+) terminal.
• Clean battery terminals and tray.
• Install the new battery, connecting the positive (+) terminal first, then the negative (-) terminal.
• Secure the battery and replace the cover.
• Replace the seat cushion.
• Start the vehicle and check settings.
• Dispose of the old battery responsibly.