Sorry if this is a silly question, but I'm new to working on cars and was wondering if unplugging the negative battery terminal will screw up any settings on my car. Will I have to recalibrate any computers? I plan on replacing a side view mirror soon and I was told I should disconnect the negative battery terminal before doing anything.

 

It may cause your seat memory to be lost, maybe the radio presets, but no, nothing bad will happen.

 

2 things I never even use haha. Thats a relief. I read in a Hayne's manual that you need to recalibrate the accel pedal after disconnecting the negative baterry terminal. Did I misunderstand that? Theres also a few other tests it says I should run after disconnecting the negative battery terminal. It sounds ridiculous that disconnecting it would cause the accel pedal to decalibrate, but I dont know...

 

The only reason I've heard of doing the recalibration of the throttle position is if you were working on the throttle bodies previously and/or you have been experiencing idle issues. Otherwise, disconnecting the battery shouldn't reset the throttle position. And as for the tests, I suppose the only test needed is to turn on your car and make sure all of your electrical components are still working by toggling them.

 

If you disconnect the throttle body while the battery is connected, it requires recalibration. Disconnecting the battery, no.

Also, programming the seat memory to put your seat into position when you unlock it with the FOB is a must! I frequently recline mine while on lunch break and such, and to have it back in proper driving position before I can reach the door is awesome.