Last updated on October 16th, 2023 at 04:01 am
Car battery corrosion is the main factor contributing to car batteries’ shorter lifespans and poor performance. Corrosion on car batteries, especially on the connectors, can lead to shortages that permanently harm them. As a result, your car can suddenly break down or not start at all. So, you have to take proper care of car battery terminals.
Cleaning a car battery terminal is not rocket science. The car battery terminal delivers energy to the whole system. So, taking care of the battery terminals is essential. This is not so difficult a job you cannot do alone. Keep a closer eye on this article, and you will find the easiest ways to clean the car battery terminals.
Super Cleaning Tips For Car Battery Terminals
- Step 1: Detach the Battery Cables
- Step 2: Remove Corrosion from your Car Battery Terminals
- Step 3: Dilutes Acid
- Step 4: Rinse the residues
- Step 5: Reconnect the Car Battery Terminal
Let us discuss in detail what will you need –
Equipment & Materials :
- A socket wrench
- Baking soda
- Water
- A wire brush or some steel wool
- Petroleum jelly
- Old toothbrush
- Rag
- Petroleum jelly
- Gloves and safety glasses
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Step 1: Detach the Battery Cables
Before cleaning your car battery terminals, detach the negative battery cable first. It will help to protect you from shock and unwanted accidents. However, negative cables can be known by the negative sign (-). On the other hand, positive battery cables will be identified by the positive sign (+).
Step 2: Remove Corrosion from your Car Battery Terminals
After removing the positive and negative cables, start neutralizing the battery corrosion. In this regard, you can apply a commercial-grade battery cleanser. It will erase corrosion and dilute the acid as well.
Plus, baking soda and water can be the best homemade corrosion cleaner. Moreover, rub the affected areas with this solution with an old toothbrush or bristle brush.
Step 3: Dilutes Acid
Dilute the white coating of the battery by combining two tablespoons of baking soda and water. Baking soda will work as a base if it comes into contact with the acid. They react and begin to bubble. Leave this mixture to settle for 2 to 3 minutes to show its magic!
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Step 4: Rinse the residues
Eliminate rust and debris from the terminal by rinsing with water. Use a wet rag to sweep it. Afterward, dry it with a soft cloth. Air compressors may aid accelerate the drying process.
Step 5: Reconnect the Car Battery Terminal
In this step, attach the battery cables first. Complete your job by tightening the screws around the battery terminal.
Expert Tips To Cleaning Your Car Battery Terminals
Try to use anti-corrosion wipes to secure your car battery terminals. Instead, you can put some petroleum jelly. It will increase the electrical compatibility between the battery terminal and wires. Also, this technique assists you in avoiding the potential deterioration of the battery terminals. Keep in mind that excess petroleum jelly can result in a faulty hook-up.
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