The Dangers of Car Battery Corrosion & How to Prevent It
No matter what kind of car or battery you have, your terminals can become corroded over time making them poor conductors of electricity. While corrosion will not make your battery combust or catch on fire, buildup on battery terminals can keep your car from starting. In this article, we’ll explore some practical ways to prevent corrosion and keep your battery in tip-top shape.
Clean Regularly
It's easy to clean up corrosion with just a battery brush and a wrench that fits your battery clamps. Remember to disconnect your battery before applying any cleaning agents and follow the proper safety precautions. If you don’t feel comfortable cleaning it yourself, talk to your mechanic the next time you take your car in for service.Be Mindful of Your Battery’s Age
Corrosion, and the associated risks, tend to worsen as a battery gets older. It’s important to keep track of battery changes and record any issues, including trouble starting your car, any rough starts, and if you ever have to get your battery jumped or recharged. This record will help your mechanic make an informed decisionDon’t Wait for a Problem
As we mentioned earlier, corrosion cannot make your battery catch fire, but it can keep your car from starting. If the corrosion extends into the battery post connection, it's possible that your car may not start at some crucial moment. You should be checking your engine periodically anyway so, when you do, take a look at your battery and check for build-up around the battery terminals. If you do this regularly, you should be able to just wipe it away with a cloth or paper towel instead of performing a deep clean. If you notice excessive buildup between cleans, you should call your mechanic.At V&F
If you suspect that your battery may have terminal corrosion, have the vehicle inspected by a professional technician at V&F. All of our auto repair services are backed by an industry-leading 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Call us today at (413) 314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.
This article was originally published in 2018 and has been updated.