There is a metal rod across the trunk area. It appears that it would have to be removed before I can access the 4 screws that hold the panel in place at the rear of the trunk. Despite searching this forum and watching youtube videos, I can not figure out how to do this. The videos I've seen either show the hardtop - in which case you just remove the panel with the 4 screws, or when they show the convertible, the only obstruction is the retractable luggage cover, which must be removed. I've not been able to find a case where they show what to do with that metal bar. (A tow truck driver tried for an hour and could not get it done.) Help will be appreciated.

 

It's EZ and straightforward. ... except that the battery is heavy, so you may want to get a board to use as a ramp to slide the battery out once you remove the obstacles and disconnect it. Here's how to do it, from a 2011 post. Note that the 4.2L models don't have the Battery Monitoring Module that is on the 5.0L models.

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...acement-54583/

 

Before you install your new battery, make sure that it is fully charged. Many brand new batteries sit on the retailer's shelf for months without being charged, so just because it's brand new doesn't mean it's fully charged.

 

I have a new battery in my garage to install in my 2014. I removed the old battery with no problems. It is not too difficult to wiggle it out onto the spare tire. From there simply lift it out. It's been mentioned when connecting the new battery, connect the positive first. I don't fully understand the importance of this, but it is important.

 

I believe this is the safer procedure. Functionally, it does not matter to which battery pole (+ or -) you connect first. However, if you connect the negative pole first, you are creating a ground for the battery, which is a potentially unsafe condition. If you are not careful connecting to the positive pole, you could unintentionally create a short circuit. Doing it the other way round creates no such hazard unless you intend to short the battery.