The battery is in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, toward the front of the engine bay.
In this article, we explain exactly where to look, how to identify the battery, and what to do for maintenance, replacement, or jump-starts.
Battery location details
Use these steps to locate and verify the battery’s position under the hood.
- Open the hood and stand in front of the vehicle to access the engine bay.
- Look on the driver’s side (left side when facing the car) of the engine bay for a rectangular battery mounted in a tray with a hold-down bracket.
- Identify the two terminals: the positive terminal is typically covered with a red cap, and the negative terminal is connected to the chassis ground.
- Note nearby components such as the air intake ducting and fuse block, which sit close to the battery in this area.
With the battery located, you can plan maintenance or replacement and verify you’re working with the correct component.
Jump-starts and replacement safety tips
These practical steps help you safely jump-start or replace the 12-volt battery in the 2016 Traverse.
- Ensure the engine is off, the gear selector is in Park (or Neutral for manual), and the parking brake is engaged before you begin.
- Wear eye protection and gloves; keep flames and sparks away from the battery.
- If jump-starting, connect the red clamp to the positive terminal of the donor battery, then to the Traverse’s positive terminal; connect the black clamp to the donor battery’s negative terminal, and attach the other end to a clean, unpainted metal ground on the Traverse (not directly to the dead battery’s negative post).
- Start the donor vehicle and, after a few minutes, try to start the Traverse. Remove the clamps in the reverse order: black from ground, then black from donor, then red from Traverse, and finally red from donor.
Following these safety steps can help prevent electrical damage or personal injury during jump-starts or battery replacement.
Summary
For a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse, the 12-volt battery resides in the engine compartment on the driver’s side, near the front of the engine bay. It’s typically accessed under a black plastic cover with a hold-down bracket. Use caution and follow proper jump-start or replacement procedures to protect the vehicle’s electrical system.