I am going to be away for three months. During this time, should I disconnect the battery? From what I've read, I just need to disconnect the negative black cable? can I just leave the battery where it is or do I have to actually remove it from the car? By disconnecting, will this ensure that the car starts when I return? Are there any drawbacks of disconnecting (aside from having to reset radio)?

I've gone away without disconnecting in the past and when I come back, I always have to get a boost. Trying to avoid this if I can.

Thanks!

 

U got it. Another option is to get a betttery tendet so u dont have to disconnect.

 

Indeed only disconnecting the negative terminal is all that is required. Physically removing the battery is immaterial. (Don't disconnect the positive terminal before the negative terminal because any slip where your wrench touches the car chassis while unbolting the positive terminal will result in a short circuit through the wrench and fireworks you don't want to see.)

 

My Nissan Xterra only get driven every few months. I never disconnect the battery.

 

i'm sure your xterra has a bigger battery than the tiny 151r all Fits have. with a viper alarm my 151 would give me a week before it dies. it might last a little longer with just the stock alarm.