Battery Disconnect Considerations

When a damaged vehicle enters a collision repair facility, many times the repairs require the battery to be disconnected. Operations such as welding, SRS repairs, engine work, and body panels being open for extended periods of time, can all require that the battery be disconnected. At one time the radio presets would be written down before the battery was disconnected and programmed after the battery was reconnected. However, today many OEMs have special precautions or steps that need to be taken when disconnecting the battery. Let’s take a look at what some OEMs require when disconnecting the battery.

A well-known operation is waiting a specific amount of time for the system to discharge before performing SRS repairs. Some other considerations are to make sure you perform the pre-repair scan before disconnecting the battery, so that you don’t lose any stored codes. Also, OEMs such as Honda have an anti-theft code that needs to be entered when the battery is reconnected. Make sure you have this code before disconnecting the battery to prevent delays. Both Audi and Volkswagen say that the ignition must be in the on position when disconnecting the battery, except if the battery is in the passenger compartment.

Some OEMs require special steps or calibrations be carried out after the battery has been reconnected. Nissan needs to relearn idle air volume, the power windows need to be initialized, and the HVAC system has several components that require attention, to name a few. Mercedes-Benz has a long list of operations that need to be performed after the battery is reconnected such as turning components on and off and driving in a full circle. Mazda has initializations for power windows, sunroof, TPMS, and the power liftgate. Some Honda models require that you relearn the steering angle neutral position after reconnecting the battery. Also, there are OEMs that require the vehicle to be driven to relearn certain functions after the battery is reconnected.

Another item to note, are vehicles equipped with stop/start technology. These vehicles require a special battery when replaced.

These are all reasons why to always consult OEM repair information before performing any repairs on a vehicle. If you need help finding the correct repair information check out the OEM Information pages on RTS for videos on how to access vehicle information. If you still can’t find what you need, contact us at Ask I-CAR, and we would be happy to help assist you in achieving a complete, safe, and quality repair.

Additional I-CAR Collision Repair News you may find helpful:

  • Repairer Driven News: Rivian Updates Door Handle Procedure Sunday, 4 February 2035

    Repairer Driven News (RDN) released an article featuring an updated Rivian procedure.

  • 2025 SkillsUSA National Competition Results Monday, 30 June 2025

    The 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference took place on June 26, 2025. Every year I-CAR sends volunteers (virtually in 2021) to judge the collision repair technology competition....

  • Ford/Lincoln Rocker Panel Reinforcement Sectioning Friday, 27 June 2025

    We are often asked, “Can I section this panel?” Let’s take a look at Ford/Lincoln vehicles and sectioning the rocker panel reinforcement.

  • Back-To-Basics: Backside Panel Refinish And Edging Thursday, 26 June 2025

    Sometimes, going back to the basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. When repairing and refinishing, you might need to refinish the panel's backside and edges.

  • Hyundai Position Statement: Pre- And Post-Repair System Scanning - UPDATE Monday, 23 June 2025

    Hyundai released an updated position statement relating to pre- and post-repair system scanning.

  • App-Based Connected Services Considerations Tuesday, 17 June 2025

    Have you had an experience where the vehicle notified the owner that it was being moved while it was in your repair facility? App-based connected services are available from many vehicle makers and...

  • Digital Key Considerations Tuesday, 17 June 2025

    The intermingling of technology and automobiles continues, with digital key offerings from most vehicle makers. Digital keys utilize smartphone technology to expand vehicle access and owner...

  • Back-To-Basics: Tire Tread Pattern Wednesday, 11 June 2025

    Sometimes going back-to-basics can make the difference between a quality repair and a failed repair. Let’s see how to identify tire tread patterns and their repair considerations.

  • Corrosion Protection Guidelines: Ford/Lincoln - UPDATE Tuesday, 10 June 2025

    A key factor in collision repair is making long-lasting repairs. When a vehicle is repaired, many areas of corrosion protection are disturbed. This creates corrosion hot spots that, left untreated,...

  • Rivian Restraints Wiring Thursday, 5 June 2025

    The question is often asked, "Can supplemental restraints system wiring be repaired?" The answer is: it depends on the vehicle maker. Let's take a look at Rivian's position on this subject.