Understanding and Preventing Car Battery Corrosion
The warm weather is finally here in Hanover. And so do the fun actives that are available to our community. But when you go to head out the last thing you want is a dead car battery to spoil the fun. And when pop open the hood of your car, the last thing you want to see is a crusty buildup around your vehicle’s battery terminals. Because, this white or bluish powdery substance is a sign of corrosion. And corrosion is a common issue that can lead to various problems if not addressed.
So in this blog, the experts at Meineke on Carlisle Street in Hanover look into what causes battery corrosion, its effects, and most importantly, how you can prevent it.
What Causes Car Battery Corrosion?
Corrosion on your car battery terminals is primarily caused by the release of hydrogen gas from the sulfuric acid inside the battery. And, when this gas reacts with other elements under the hood, it forms corrosion. So, here are some factors that can cause your battery terminal to corrode:
- Age of the Battery: Older batteries are more prone to leakage, increasing the likelihood of corrosion.
- Electrolyte Leakage: Overfilled battery cells can leak electrolyte. And this can lead to corrosion around the terminals.
- Poor Connections: Loose or dirty battery connections can cause resistance. And this can generate heat and accelerate corrosion.
- Weather Conditions: High humidity and extreme temperatures can exacerbate the corrosion process.
Effects of Battery Corrosion
Ignoring battery corrosion can lead to several issues:
- Starting Problems: Corroded terminals can prevent your car from starting.
- Electrical System Issues: Corrosion can interfere with the car’s electrical system. And this can lead to erratic behavior of lights, radio, and other electronics.
- Reduced Battery Life: Corrosion can drain your battery. And this can reduce the life and efficiency of your vehicle’s battery.
How to Prevent Car Battery Corrosion
Preventing battery corrosion involves a few easy maintenance tasks that can save you from future headaches and potential car trouble.
- Regular Inspection:
- Make it a habit to check your battery terminals periodically; look for any signs of buildup or residue.
- Clean the Terminals:
- If you notice any corrosion, clean it off immediately. You can use a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize the acid.
- Apply Protective Coatings:
- After cleaning, apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly or a specialized battery terminal protectant to the terminals. Because, this creates a barrier against moisture and air. And doing so will reduce the risk of corrosion.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation:
- Make sure your battery is well-ventilated to allow any gases to escape. And check the battery hold-down and make sure it’s secure but not overly tight.
- Regular Charging:
- Keeping your battery fully charged helps prevent sulfate buildup, which can contribute to corrosion. And if you don’t drive your car often, consider using a battery maintainer to keep it charged.
- Check Alternator Health:
- A malfunctioning alternator can cause overcharging. And this can lead to excessive gas release and resulting corrosion. So, regularly check your alternator to ensure it’s functioning correctly.
Corrosion on your car battery is a manageable problem with regular maintenance and care at Meineke
Remember, a little preventive care goes a long way in avoiding the hassle and expense of dealing with a dead battery at an inconvenient time. And the ASE certified experts at Meineke on Carlisle Street in Hanover are here to help with your battery maintenance and any other vehicle car issues you may have.
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