How to Change Battery in Nissan Murano? | Step-by-Step DIY

Replacing the battery in a Nissan Murano requires a 10mm socket wrench and roughly 20 minutes, with the battery located behind the driver-side headlight in the engine bay.

A dead battery leaves you stranded, but the fix is straightforward with the right tools. The procedure for Murano models from 2012 through 2024 is nearly identical, using a standard 12V automotive battery accessible from the engine compartment. This guide covers the exact order—disconnecting the negative terminal first and connecting it last—to keep the job safe and spark-free.

Tools and Battery Specs You’ll Need

Before opening the hood, gather a 10mm socket wrench (a 1/4″ drive ratchet works best), safety glasses, gloves, and a wire brush for cleaning corrosion. The Murano uses a standard flooded lead-acid or AGM 12V battery; the owner’s manual specifies the exact group size (commonly Group 96R or similar). The battery sits behind the driver-side headlight, in front of the air filter box. On some 2012 models, you may need to remove a plastic engine cover or the air filter housing for access.

Step-by-Step Replacement Procedure

The sequence below follows the manufacturer-aligned method used across major mechanic guides. Work slowly and never force a cable.

1. Prepare the vehicle. Turn the engine off completely and remove the key from the ignition. Open the hood and secure it with the prop rod.
2. Disconnect the negative terminal first. Using your 10mm socket, loosen the nut on the black negative (−) terminal by turning it counterclockwise. Pull the cable off the post, wrap it in a towel, and tuck it away so it cannot accidentally touch the terminal again.
3. Disconnect the positive terminal. Flip up or remove the red plastic cap covering the positive (+) terminal. Loosen its nut and remove the cable. Keep the cable clear of any metal surfaces.
4. Remove the hold-down clamp. Locate the bracket or clamp securing the battery to the tray. Loosen and remove it with the 10mm ratchet.
5. Lift out the old battery. Remove the heat shield cover if present. Carefully lift the battery straight up (it weighs about 35–45 lbs) and place it on a stable surface.
6. Clean the tray and terminals. Use a wire brush to scrub corrosion from the black plastic tray and the inside of both cable ends. A paste of baking soda and water neutralizes any acid residue.
7. Install the new battery with correct orientation. Place the new battery into the tray so that the positive terminal faces the rear of the vehicle and the negative terminal faces the front. This orientation is critical—installing it backward will prevent the cables from reaching. Reinstall the heat shield cover.
8. Secure the battery. Tighten the hold-down clamp until the battery sits firmly in the tray.
9. Connect the positive terminal first. Push the red positive (+) cable fully onto the positive post. Tighten its 10mm nut clockwise until snug.
10. Connect the negative terminal last. Attach the black negative (−) cable to the negative post and tighten its nut. Replace the red plastic cap over the positive terminal.
11. Test the installation. Start the engine. If the car cranks normally, flash the high beams or turn on the interior lights to verify the electrical system is working.

Common Mistakes That Cause Trouble

The most frequent error is the terminal connection order. Connecting the negative terminal first (or disconnecting the positive first) can create sparks and risk shorting the electrical system. The safe rule: negative off first, negative on last. Another common problem is installing the battery with the positive terminal facing forward—the cables are simply too short to reach. If the cables feel stretched or do not sit flush, flip the battery around. Never pry or twist cables off with a metal tool; a gentle rocking motion or a dedicated terminal puller prevents damage to the cable insulation.

Pricing and Battery Selection

A replacement battery for the Nissan Murano typically costs between $150 and $250 for a quality unit, depending on the brand and whether you choose a standard or AGM type. If you are ready to purchase, our tested roundup of the best batteries for the Murano covers options that fit 2012–2024 models. Confirm the exact group size in your owner’s manual before buying.