I’m not handy with car stuff and wouldn’t know where to start with changing a battery. I need to take my EV6 in for routine maintenance and also that recent recall, so I’m wondering if I bring a third-party AGM 12V battery with me, will they install it?
Haven’t had any battery issues yet, but I’m at 20,000 miles, so I want to be proactive. I’m in Houston if anyone knows a place that can help.
It’s honestly pretty straightforward:
Then just do all that in reverse with the new battery. Here’s a good walkthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hd6emEE92pA
Even if the dealership is willing, they’ll likely charge $100+ for what takes maybe 10 minutes.
@Cai
Thanks for the video! I’ll check it out. I don’t have many tools, but maybe I can give it a try.
Skyler said:
@Cai
Thanks for the video! I’ll check it out. I don’t have many tools, but maybe I can give it a try.
If you get a 12V AGM battery from an auto parts store or Costco, they’ll usually install it for free and recycle the old one for a rebate.
Skyler said:
@Cai
Thanks for the video! I’ll check it out. I don’t have many tools, but maybe I can give it a try.
One tip: After removing the ground, wrap the end in a cloth just in case it touches anything metal. Even if you’ve pulled the fuse, it’s a good habit to prevent any accidental sparks. But overall, this is a super easy DIY.
Most auto parts stores will install the battery for free if you buy it there. Good skill to learn, though.
Yep, just about any auto parts store will put the battery in for free if you buy it from them. Costco might do it too if you’re a member.
Keegan said:
Yep, just about any auto parts store will put the battery in for free if you buy it from them. Costco might do it too if you’re a member.
I am a member, but I get nervous about non-dealership people working on my EV. Even tire shops seem to struggle with turning it on and off correctly.
@Skyler
The 12V battery is really no different from a regular car battery, so any shop should handle it just fine.
I’d say hold off on replacing it until necessary. I’m on my original battery after 2 years and double your mileage with no issues.
If you’re worried, maybe invest in a 12V lithium booster pack instead. That way, if the battery does die, you can start the car yourself without having to replace the battery prematurely.
@Kit
I have a booster pack, but as a single woman, the idea of being stranded somewhere with a dead battery still makes me nervous. A new battery might be worth the peace of mind.
Skyler said:
@Kit
I have a booster pack, but as a single woman, the idea of being stranded somewhere with a dead battery still makes me nervous. A new battery might be worth the peace of mind.
Totally get that! Just good to be familiar with the booster in case you ever need it. My wife has one in her car and it saved her once—back on the road in 5 minutes without needing a tow or help.
Wherever you buy the battery from will probably put it in for free if you ask.
AutoZone will install it if you buy the battery there.
Dude, it’s a lot easier than you’d think. When my battery died, I went to the dealership and they quoted $350 for a new one. I bought one at Costco for $200 and they put it in for me!
Best to call and ask the dealership directly. Some may only install parts they sell themselves. If they do agree, they might not warranty the part if there’s an issue.
Dealerships almost never install outside parts, and some other shops don’t either because it cuts into their parts sales.
Auto parts stores like Costco and AutoZone will usually do it for free if you buy from them.
Battery replacement is simple enough, but if you’re not comfortable working around electrical stuff, having it done is the safer bet. A 12V battery can discharge hundreds of amps if accidentally shorted, which could damage something.
@Valen
It’s just a 12-volt battery.
Yes, but it can still deliver several hundred amps and melt anything that accidentally shorts across the terminals.
You got this! 
I changed mine yesterday and it only took 16 minutes, and that was with me stopping to take photos.