How to Change an ATV Battery | O'Reilly Auto Parts

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A battery helps to start and run your all-terrain vehicle, so don’t let a dead battery keep you from enjoying your ATV or UTV. Your ATV’s battery can discharge over time if you do not run or drive it, or if the vehicle is stored for the season without being charged or the battery disconnected. The engine of your ATV maintains its charge through a stator or magneto system, which electrically charges the battery while it’s running. If you notice your ATV’s battery voltage has dropped or is not consistent, or if your all-terrain vehicle fails to start, you may have a dead battery. You can help ensure a working ATV battery by visiting your local O’Reilly Auto Parts store to get your battery tested for free. If you're replacing the battery in your ATV, these instructions and step-by-step video can help you understand how to change an ATV battery to help keep yours starting and running its best.

Tools & Materials List

Step by Step Instructions

Remove the Old Battery

Install the New Battery

Additional Resource

Today, we’ll be changing the battery in this 2001 Kawasaki, and procedures will be similar on a lot of ATVs, but be sure to know the specifics for your ATV before getting started. Once you’ve determined you need a battery, we can help you find the best replacement and dispose of your old battery for you. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.

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Mechanic holding the pull release for the seat on the ATV and removing the seat

Step 1: Find the Release and Remove the Seat

Park your ATV on a level surface and find the release for the seat so it can be removed. Remove the seat and set it aside.

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Mechanic using a ratchet to remove the battery hold down on the ATV

Step 2: Remove the Battery Hold-Down

Once the seat is removed, determine the tool you’ll need to remove the battery hold-down. This could be a screwdriver or a ratchet and socket. Loosen the hold down and remove it.

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Negative battery cable being disconnected from the SuperStart battery

Step 3: Disconnect the Battery Cables

Now you’ll disconnect the cables from the battery terminals. Disconnect the negative cable first, which is marked with the minus “-“ sign. Just use your socket to loosen this enough to slip the connector off and move it to the side, out of the way. Make sure it’s not resting on bare metal. Same thing with the positive cable.

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Mechanic removing the SuperStart battery from the ATV

Step 4: Lift the Battery Out of the ATV

After the battery cables are disconnected, you can carefully lift the battery out of the housing.

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Mechanic holding two small adaptors in a red case

Step 5: Ensure the Adaptors Fit Appropriately

Before installing the new battery, make sure you have the appropriate height adaptor or adaptors to ensure the top of the battery is level with the hold-down.

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Mechanic holding a new SuperStart Powersports battery

Step 6: Place the New ATV Battery in the Housing

Put the new battery in place with the terminal posts in the same orientation as they had been previously.

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Ratchet securing battery cables

Step 7: Reattach the Battery Cables

Remove the new hardware from the post and use it to reattach the positive cable first. After the positive cable is attached, then attach the negative cable. Make sure the cables are tightened securely so that there’s no movement.

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Mechanic in gloves attaching the battery hold down to secure the new ATV battery

Step 8: Reattach the Battery Hold-Down

Once the battery itself is seated, reattach the hold-down and make sure the battery is snug.

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O’Reilly Auto Parts mechanic placing the seat back in position on the ATV

Step 9: Replace the Seat

After the battery is secured with the hold-down, put the seat back in place and make sure it is secure.

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Mechanic sitting on the ATV

Step 10: Start the ATV’s Ignition

Turn on the ignition to ensure everything is properly installed.

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Battery maintainer hooked up to the ATV

Use a Battery Maintainer

Since your ATV is likely to go extended periods without use, keep a battery maintainer on hand and connected during periods of inactivity so that it’s ready to go when you are.

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A dead battery can quickly end your quad, four wheeler, or ATV plans. Running your ATV regularly can help you maintain the battery’s charge and extend its performance life. If you think your 4-wheeler battery or ATV battery is dead, check the voltage for irregularities or visit an O’Reilly Auto Parts store to take advantage of our free Battery Testing service. We also have new power sport batteries, drive belts, storage covers, and repair manuals to help you maintain your ATV. Help keep your ATV performing its best by visiting your local O’Reilly Auto Parts store, or shop online to find all the parts you need to make your repairs or complete your maintenance.

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The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.