Disconnect and Reconnect the Battery

Last updated: June 5, 2026

Disconnecting the 12 V battery on a Kia Sportage Mk3 (SL, 2010–2016) is a routine job, but the car loses several settings when the power goes and may light the ESP warning until the steering angle is relearned. This guide covers the safe order of work and the quick re-initialisations the Sportage needs once the leads are back on.

Where the Battery Is

The battery is in the engine compartment. Lift any cover to reach the two clamps. Cars with ISG (Idle Stop & Go) start/stop use an uprated AGM/EFB battery — replace like-for-like.

Before You Disconnect

• Note your radio presets and user preferences, which are wiped when the power goes.
• Turn the engine off and ensure all electrical consumers are switched off, then remove the key (or keep the keyless fob away from the car).
• To keep settings alive, plug in a memory-saver. The steps below assume you are not using one.
• If working near airbags or seat-belt pretensioners, disconnect the battery and wait at least 3 minutes before handling those parts.

Disconnecting — Correct Order

1. Turn the ignition off and remove the key.
2. Open the bonnet and reach the battery.
3. Slacken the negative (−, earth) terminal first and lift the lead clear, tucking it aside.
4. Only undo the positive (+) terminal if you are removing the battery completely.
5. If removing the battery, undo the base clamp and lift it out upright.

Reconnecting — Correct Order

1. Refit the battery and secure the hold-down clamp.
2. Connect the positive (+) lead first, then the negative (−) earth lead last. Tighten both firmly.
3. Turn the ignition on for a few seconds before starting the engine.

What to Reset Afterwards

• Reset the date and time, re-enter radio presets and user preferences, and set the trip-computer options.
• Re-initialise the electric windows — hold each close switch until shut, then a second more (see our Sportage window guide).
• Clear the ESP warning if it shows: turn the ignition on, turn the steering wheel half a turn left, then to the right, turn the ignition off, then start the engine — the light should go out.
• Re-initialise the sunroof if fitted, and let the ISG (start/stop) system re-initialise over a drive on a healthy battery.

If a Warning Light Stays On

One or two lights right after reconnecting is normal and should clear on a short drive once the windows and steering angle are relearned. If the airbag, ABS or engine light remains, a fault code was logged during the power interruption. Reading it needs an OBD scanner — you can look up what a Sportage code means on our sister site autodtcs.com.

Tools You Need

• 10 mm spanner/socket for the terminal clamps and hold-down.
• Optional memory-saver to preserve presets and settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does the ESP light come on after reconnecting?

The steering-angle sensor loses its zero point during a power loss. The simple steering left/right relearn (above) re-references it and the light goes out.

How long should I leave it disconnected to reset the electronics?

Around 15 minutes with the doors shut lets the modules power down fully, clearing most transient glitches.

Why won’t my windows auto-close after reconnecting?

Expected — the one-touch disables itself after a power loss. Re-initialise each window and it returns.

Do I need to register a new battery on a Sportage?

On ISG/start-stop cars it is best to register a new AGM/EFB battery with a Kia-capable tool so the charging system manages it correctly.

To clear the service reminder after maintenance, see our Kia Sportage service indicator reset guide.