how to remove corrosion from car battery

That crusty, bluish-white substance building up on your car battery terminals is more than just an eyesore. It’s corrosion, and it can quietly sabotage your car’s ability to start. Caused by a chemical reaction from battery acid vapors, this buildup creates a barrier that weakens the electrical connection. The good news is that learning how to remove corrosion from car battery terminals is a simple and inexpensive task you can do at home, often saving you a trip to the mechanic and ensuring your car starts reliably.

Gathering Your Simple Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin, you’ll need a few basic items. For your safety, always wear gloves and safety glasses. You’ll also need a wrench (usually an 8mm or 10mm), a wire brush, and a cleaning agent. A great DIY option is a paste made from baking soda and water, which neutralizes the acidic corrosion. Alternatively, a can of dedicated battery terminal cleaner from an auto parts store works perfectly.

A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Remove Corrosion from Car Battery

Start by turning off your vehicle and ensuring the keys are not in the ignition. First, disconnect the cables. Always remove the negative cable (marked with a minus sign or the letters NEG) first, followed by the positive cable (marked with a plus sign or POS). This prevents accidental short circuits. Once the cables are loose, apply your baking soda paste or spray-on cleaner. You’ll see it fizz as it neutralizes the acid. Use your wire brush to scrub the terminals and the cable connectors until they are shiny and clean.

Reconnecting and Preventing Future Buildup

After everything is clean and dry, it’s time to reconnect the battery. This time, do the opposite of removal: connect the positive terminal first, then the negative. Tighten them securely so they don’t wiggle loose. To prevent corrosion from returning so quickly, consider applying a small amount of petroleum jelly or a dedicated battery terminal protector spray to the clean terminals. This creates a barrier that helps keep those corrosive vapors at bay.

By taking just a few minutes to clean your battery terminals, you’re ensuring a strong electrical connection for starting your car. This simple bit of maintenance can extend the life of your battery and save you from the frustration of a no-start situation on a busy morning.