The battery location on a 2014 Dodge Journey might surprise you. Unlike most vehicles where the battery is found under the hood, the Journey's battery is tucked away in a less conventional spot.

Battery Placement

The battery in a 2014 Dodge Journey is located behind the front driver's side wheel well. This unique placement can be confusing for many owners and mechanics who are used to finding the battery in the engine compartment.

Accessing the Battery

To reach the battery, you'll need to follow these steps:

  • Jack up the front driver's side of the vehicle
  • Remove the front driver's side wheel
  • Remove the inner fender well liner

This design choice by Dodge makes battery replacement a bit more challenging than in most vehicles.

Tools Required

To access and replace the battery, you'll need:

  • Jack and jack stands
  • Lug wrench
  • 10mm wrench (for battery terminals)
  • 13mm wrench (for battery hold-down)
  • Flathead screwdriver (for plastic clips)

Battery Specifications

The 2014 Dodge Journey typically uses a Group Size 26 battery with a minimum of 525 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). Always double-check your specific model's requirements before purchasing a replacement.

Replacement Process

1. Safely jack up the vehicle and secure it with jack stands

2. Remove the driver's side front wheel

3. Remove the plastic fender liner to expose the battery

4. Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive

5. Remove the battery hold-down bracket

6. Carefully extract the old battery and insert the new one

7. Reconnect terminals in reverse order (positive first, then negative)

8. Reinstall the hold-down bracket, fender liner, and wheel

Remember to properly dispose of the old battery at an authorized recycling center.

Important Considerations

  • Always disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent short circuits
  • Ensure the new battery is the correct size and has adequate CCA for your Journey
  • Consider using a memory saver to preserve your vehicle's electronic settings during replacement

This unconventional battery location in the 2014 Dodge Journey may seem inconvenient, but it allows for better weight distribution and frees up space under the hood for other components.

FAQs About Dodge Journey Battery

    • Why did Dodge put the battery in such an odd location?
      This design choice allows for better weight distribution and creates more space under the hood for other components.
    • Can I replace the battery myself?
      Yes, but it requires more effort than in most vehicles. If you're not comfortable with basic auto maintenance, it's best to seek professional help.
    • How often should I replace the battery in my Dodge Journey?
      Typically, car batteries last 3-5 years, but this can vary based on usage and climate conditions.