The Chevy Cobalt, a compact car produced by General Motors, has its battery located in the trunk, which is somewhat unusual compared to many other vehicles where the battery is found under the hood. Understanding the positive and negative connections of the battery is essential for maintenance and replacement.

Battery Location and Access

In most Chevy Cobalt models, the battery is situated in the trunk, adjacent to the spare tire. To access it, you typically need to lift the trunk floor cover. This design choice helps with weight distribution and handling.

Positive and Negative Connections

When dealing with the battery, it's crucial to know which terminal is which:

  • Positive Terminal (+): This terminal is usually marked with a red cover or a "+" symbol. It connects to the positive cable, which supplies power to the vehicle's electrical system.

  • Negative Terminal (-): This terminal is typically marked with a black cover or a "-" symbol. It connects to the negative cable, which grounds the electrical system.

Steps for Battery Maintenance

1. Disconnecting the Battery:

- Always remove the negative terminal first using a 10mm socket. This prevents any short circuit when removing the positive terminal.

- Next, remove the positive terminal using a 10mm socket.

2. Replacing the Battery:

- After disconnecting both terminals, remove any securing straps using a 13mm socket.

- Carefully lift out the old battery and place in a new one that fits correctly and has a vent port for safety.

- Connect the positive terminal first followed by the negative terminal to complete installation.

3. Ventilation: Ensure that any new battery installed has a proper venting system connected to avoid hydrogen gas buildup, which can be hazardous.

Important Considerations

  • When replacing or working on your Cobalt's battery, always check that you are using a compatible battery type (typically Group 47 or similar) with adequate Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) for your climate.

  • Be aware that disconnecting the battery may reset your vehicle's electronic systems, including radio presets and possibly require re-entering security codes.

  • If you experience issues like dimming lights or starting problems after replacing your battery, it may indicate underlying electrical issues that need further investigation.

FAQs About Chevy Cobalt Battery

    • Where is the battery located in my Chevy Cobalt?
      The battery is located in the trunk next to the spare tire.
    • What tools do I need to replace my Cobalt's battery?
      You will need a 10mm socket for terminal connections and a 13mm socket for securing straps.
    • Why does my new battery keep dying?
      This could be due to faulty wiring, an issue with the alternator, or parasitic drains from electrical components.