What you need to know before you start
Replacing a Dodge Journey battery is a task you can do yourself with basic tools, or you can have a mechanic or auto parts store handle it. The process takes 15 to 30 minutes once you have the new battery. Most Dodge Journey models use a standard 12-volt battery, though the exact size and cold-cranking amps (CCA) rating depend on your model year and engine type.
Before you buy a replacement, you need to know your battery's group size — this is printed on your current battery or in your owner's manual. Common sizes for Dodge Journey vehicles are Group 24F, Group 35, or Group 51R. The CCA rating tells you how much starting power the battery has in cold weather; your new battery should match or exceed the original rating.
You have three main options: buy a battery from an auto parts store and install it yourself, have the parts store install it for you, or take your Journey to a dealership or independent mechanic. Each route has different costs and time requirements.
Key Takeaways
- You need to know your battery's group size before shopping; this information is on your current battery or in your owner's manual.
- The battery is located under the hood on the driver's side of most Dodge Journey models, and you can access it without removing other parts.
- Disconnecting the negative terminal first prevents electrical shock and protects your vehicle's computer systems.
- Auto parts stores often install batteries for free or a small fee when you purchase from them, which is faster than doing it yourself if you are unsure.
- A new battery typically costs between $100 and $200 depending on the brand and CCA rating; installation adds $0 to $50 if done by a professional.
Locating and accessing the battery
Open your Dodge Journey's hood and look on the driver's side of the engine compartment. The battery is a rectangular black box with two cable terminals — one red (positive) and one black (negative). It sits in a plastic or metal battery tray that holds it in place.
Before you touch anything, make sure your engine is completely cold and the ignition is off. If you have recently driven the vehicle, wait at least 15 minutes. This prevents burns from hot engine parts and reduces the risk of electrical problems.
Removing the old battery yourself
If you are doing this yourself, gather a wrench or socket set, a battery terminal puller (optional but helpful), and work gloves. Start by loosening the nut on the negative (black) terminal with your wrench. Wiggle the terminal gently to disconnect it from the post, then move the cable out of the way. Do the same with the positive (red) terminal.
Next, locate the battery hold-down clamp or bracket that secures the battery to the tray. This is usually a metal bar across the top or sides of the battery. Remove the bolt or bolts holding it in place with your wrench. Carefully lift the battery straight up and out of the tray. Batteries are heavy — most weigh 40 to 50 pounds — so use both hands and keep your back straight.
Set the old battery aside. Many auto parts stores will take your old battery for recycling when you buy a new one, and some offer a small credit toward your purchase.
Installing the new battery
Place the new battery into the tray in the same position as the old one. Make sure it sits flat and level. Reinstall the hold-down clamp or bracket and tighten the bolts securely — the battery should not move when you push on it.
Now reconnect the terminals in reverse order: positive (red) first, then negative (black). Tighten each terminal nut firmly with your wrench. The connection should be snug enough that the terminal does not wiggle on the post. A loose connection can cause starting problems or electrical faults.
Close the hood and start your engine. It should turn over normally. If the engine cranks slowly or does not start, turn off the ignition and check that both terminals are tight. If the problem continues, the new battery may be defective, and you should return it to the store where you purchased it.
Having a professional install the battery
Auto parts stores like AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto Parts, and NAPA offer free or low-cost battery installation when you purchase a battery from them. You bring your Journey to the store, they remove the old battery and install the new one while you wait — the whole process usually takes 30 minutes or less. This is a good option if you do not have tools or feel uncomfortable working under the hood.
Dealerships and independent mechanics also install batteries. Dealership installation typically costs $50 to $100 on top of the battery price, while independent shops may charge $20 to $50. Dealerships use OEM (original equipment manufacturer) batteries, which match the factory specifications exactly. Independent shops and auto parts stores usually carry aftermarket batteries that meet the same standards but cost less.
Choosing the right replacement battery
When you shop for a battery, you will see different brands and price points. Premium brands like Optima and DieHard cost more but often come with longer warranties — sometimes five to seven years. Budget brands cost less but typically have shorter warranties of two to three years. Mid-range brands offer a balance between price and warranty coverage.
The most important numbers are the group size and CCA rating. Group size determines whether the battery physically fits in your Journey's tray. CCA rating determines how well the battery starts your engine in cold weather. If you live in a cold climate, choose a battery with a higher CCA rating than the minimum — this gives you better starting performance as the battery ages.
Check your owner's manual or the label on your current battery for the exact specifications. If you are unsure, tell the auto parts store employee your vehicle's year and engine size, and they can look up the correct battery for you.
What to do if your new battery is not working
If your Journey does not start after you install a new battery, or if the battery drains quickly, the problem may not be the battery itself. A faulty alternator, a parasitic drain, or a bad starter can all cause starting problems that feel like a dead battery.
If you installed the battery yourself, first check that both terminals are tight and free of corrosion. If the connections look clean and tight but the problem persists, take your Journey to a mechanic for a charging system test. This test checks whether the alternator is charging the battery while the engine runs. If the alternator is not working, it will drain even a new battery.
If you purchased the battery from an auto parts store and it does not work, return it. Most stores will test the battery for free and replace it if it is defective. Bring your receipt and the battery with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Dodge Journey battery usually last?
Most car batteries last three to five years, depending on climate and driving habits. Hot climates shorten battery life because heat speeds up chemical breakdown inside the battery. Cold climates can also stress a battery because it has to work harder to start the engine in freezing temperatures. If your battery is more than four years old and your Journey is hard to start, replacement is likely coming soon.
Can I drive my Journey with a weak battery?
A weak battery may start your engine on a warm day but fail in cold weather or after the engine sits for a few days. Driving with a weak battery risks leaving you stranded. If your Journey cranks slowly or the dashboard lights dim when you turn the key, have the battery tested before it fails completely.
Do I need to reprogram anything after replacing the battery?
Most Dodge Journey models do not require reprogramming after a battery change. However, you may notice that the radio presets or clock have been reset. Some vehicles with advanced features may need a short drive to recalibrate certain systems. If warning lights appear on the dashboard after replacement, they usually clear after a few drive cycles.
What should I do with my old battery?
Car batteries contain lead and sulfuric acid, so they must be recycled properly. Auto parts stores accept old batteries when you buy a new one, and many offer a core charge credit of $5 to $15. You can also take an old battery to a recycling center or scrap metal facility. Never throw a battery in the trash.
Is it cheaper to replace the battery myself or have someone else do it?
Replacing the battery yourself saves the installation labor cost, which is usually $20 to $100. However, you need basic tools and feel comfortable working under the hood. If you already own a wrench set, the only cost is the battery itself. If you need to buy tools or prefer not to do it yourself, paying for installation at an auto parts store or mechanic is often worth the convenience and peace of mind.