These instructions apply to the Alfa Romeo Tonale Mk1 (965) 2022-Present. For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
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Disconnecting the 12 V battery on your Alfa Romeo Tonale (2022–present) — for a new battery, winter storage, or work near the airbags — is straightforward, but there’s one thing to know first: the Tonale is a 48 V mild hybrid, so it has two batteries. You only ever touch the 12 V one.
Two Batteries — Touch Only the 12 V
- 12 V battery — in the engine compartment. This is the one you disconnect and replace, exactly like an ordinary car battery.
- 48 V battery — under the centre console. This is the mild-hybrid pack — leave it alone. It is not an owner-serviceable item.
The PHEV (Plug-in) Tonale also has a separate high-voltage traction battery — again, never touch its orange cabling. For all the jobs below you work only on the 12 V battery in the engine bay.
Disconnecting Safely
- Note your radio code and presets, then switch everything off.
- Disconnect the negative (−) terminal first, then the positive.
- Working near airbags or seat-belt pretensioners? Wait a few minutes after disconnecting before such work.
Reconnecting and Re-initialising
Reconnect positive first, then negative. The Tonale then relearns:
- Power windows — one-touch may need re-initialising (hold the switch fully up/down at the limit).
- Electric boot lid and sunroof (if fitted) relearn their travel.
- Start/stop and steering-angle settle after a short drive; re-enter clock and presets.
If Something Isn’t Right Afterwards
- Warning lights often clear after a short drive once the relearns complete.
- A persistent light stores a code — look it up on autodtcs.com.
- Fit the correct 12 V battery type — the mild-hybrid system is fussy about battery spec.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the battery on an Alfa Romeo Tonale?
The 12 V battery is in the engine compartment; the 48 V mild-hybrid battery is under the centre console and is not owner-serviceable.
Can I disconnect the 12 V safely on the mild hybrid?
Yes — the 12 V is separate from the 48 V and (on the PHEV) the high-voltage system; never touch those.
Which terminal first?
Negative (−) off first, reconnect it last.
Do I need to recode anything?
Windows/roof/boot may need a one-touch relearn, and you’ll re-enter the clock and presets.
If a warning light stays on after reconnecting, look up the code on autodtcs.com.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general guidance only. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions when working on your vehicle. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or any damage resulting from the use of this information.
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