3 Ways To Handle Car Battery Corrosion
Corrosion on car batteries is a common problem that can cause your car to perform poorly. A buildup of chemical reactions around the battery terminals causes corrosion, and it can cause serious damage if left unsolved. In this post, we’ll discuss three ways to handle car battery corrosion and how to prevent it in the future. This article will help solve those pesky battery issues.
From cleaning the terminals to using a corrosion inhibitor, these tips will help you keep your battery in top condition and running smoothly. We’ll also review the necessary safety precautions to protect yourself and your car during the cleanup process.
Overview of Car Battery Corrosion
There are several types of battery corrosion, including white powdery deposits, a greasy-looking film, and a light-greenish or gray-black colored film. Identifying the type and extent of the corrosion is critical to choosing the proper method for dealing with it. The most common cause of battery corrosion is contact with sulphuric acid from a malfunctioning charging system leading to hydrogen gas release from the cells. The hydrogen gas then combines with oxygen from the air and metal, creating corrosion on the terminals and posts.
1. Clean the Corroded Areas
Before cleaning corrosion, prioritize safety measures. Wear protective eye gear and clothing to avoid contact with the battery and its substances. Disconnect the battery cables before beginning the cleaning process. Gather baking soda, water, rubber gloves, a cloth or towel, and a brush. Brush away corroded areas, then create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas and gently scrub using the brush. Rinse off the paste with water and dry thoroughly with a towel or cloth before trying to use your battery again.
2. Repair the Corroded Areas
If cleaning doesn’t do the trick, consider applying a specialized chemical cleaner and neutralizer to the battery terminals to remove any remaining residue thoroughly. Follow the instructions available with the product to prevent future buildup and prolong your car’s battery life. Protect exposed metal by applying a suitable sealant designed for car batteries. Dip a ring terminal into the sealant and attach it to the posts for easy application.
3. Upgrade and Protect Your Car Battery
If you can’t repair the damage, you will need to replace your battery. A few upgrades can ensure that your battery is safe from future corrosion. Consider installing an isolator switch to safeguard against the overcharging or draining of multiple batteries in your car. This process will protect your battery from corruption during driving or prolonged parking. Use battery terminal protectors for extra defense against future corrosion on negative terminal posts. Apply them to each negative terminal connection point on your car’s battery. In hard-to-reach areas of your car’s electrical system, where other protection methods may not be feasible, you can opt for an affordable battery brush protector that effectively guards against corrosion.
Conclusion
Corrosion on car batteries is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to be a cause of worry for car owners. By taking the necessary steps to clean, repair, and protect the battery, you can effectively keep your car running in peak condition and extend its lifetime. Keep in mind the safety guidelines discussed in this article, and remember to take appropriate measures to protect yourself and your car during the cleanup and repair process. With the help of these tips and your hard work, you can maintain a healthy and corrosion-free car battery for many years.