How To Clean Battery Terminals Car?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

Cleaning your car’s battery terminals is an essential part of routine car maintenance. Dirt, corrosion, and general wear can build up on the battery terminals over time, and this can cause severe problems for your vehicle’s electrical system. Cleaning your car’s battery terminals is a relatively straightforward process that does not require special tools or expertise. With a few simple steps and materials, you can have your battery terminals looking like new in no time.

What Is Battery Corrosion?

Battery corrosion is a build-up of oxidation on the surface of the battery terminal that can occur over time from exposure to moisture and air.

Why Should You Keep Your Car’s Battery Terminals Clean?

Keeping your car’s battery terminals clean is essential for optimal performance and longevity. If the battery terminals are corroded or obstructed, it can cause electrical resistance that can lead to issues such as reduced power, decreased efficiency, or even engine stalling. Additionally, corrosion on the battery terminals can lead to failure if not addressed quickly.

Cleaning Car Battery Terminals

You Will Need

• • Gloves
  • Battery Cleaner
  • Water
  • Stiff Bristle Brush
  • Wire Brush Or Sandpaper
  • Microfiber Cloth Or Rag
  • Petroleum Jelly

Instructions

Disconnect Battery Cables: 

Before cleaning the battery terminals, ensure the car’s battery cables are disconnected by loosening the nuts that secure them to the battery terminals. No other objects or tools should come in contact with the exposed parts of the battery.

Prepare The Battery Terminals: 

Wear gloves and tackle the battery terminals. Begin by wiping off any visible dirt or grime from the surface of the terminals with a cloth or rag. If there is a lot of corrosion or build-up on the terminals, you can use a wire brush or sandpaper to scrape it off.

Apply Battery Cleaner:

1. Mix baking soda with water until it forms a paste.
2. Spread the Battery Cleaner or baking soda paste evenly over the battery terminals and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This will help dissolve any corrosion or build-up on the surfaces.
3. After the time has passed, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub off the remaining residue from the terminals.

Rinse & Dry: 

Once all the dirt and grime are removed, rinse the terminals with some water and dry them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth or rag.

Grease & Reconnect: 

Once the terminals are completely dry, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly over each terminal to help protect against corrosion and reconnect the battery cables. Your car’s battery terminals should now be clean and functioning well.

Causes Of Battery Terminal Corrosion

• Direct contact with road salt and water
• Battery acid leakage
• Failing battery seals
• Old age
• Poor connection between the terminals and cable ends
• Corrosion build-up due to electrolysis
• Overfilled Battery
• Overcharging

What To Do To Prevent Battery Terminal Corrosion

•  Check the terminals regularly and clean them when necessary using a battery terminal cleaning brush or a wire brush.
•  If corrosion is visible, use baking soda and water to neutralize it. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with clean water afterward.
•  To keep batteries from rusting further, apply petroleum jelly or dielectric grease to the terminals and cables.
•  Make sure all metal parts are securely connected using a wrench or pliers if necessary.
•  Keep your battery completely dry to prevent oxidation from forming on the metal surfaces. Consider investing in a water-resistant cover for your battery.
•  If necessary, replace corroded cables and terminals with new parts.
•  Ensure your battery is adequately charged at least once a month to help it last longer and prevent corrosion from forming on the terminals.

Products That Are Good To Deal With Cleaning Battery Terminals

 Battery Terminal Cleaner Spray:

This spray will help to remove dirt and debris from the battery terminals and cable connections.

 Dielectric Grease:

This product helps to lubricate, seal, and protect your battery terminals from corrosion.

 Petroleum Jelly Or Vaseline: 

Petroleum jelly can help prevent corrosion on terminals and cables.

 Battery Terminal Covers: 

These covers help to protect the terminals from corrosion and keep them dry.

 Automotive Wire Brush: 

A wire brush is an excellent tool for scrubbing away dirt and corrosion on the metal parts of the battery terminal. 

Tips

• Only use batteries that are not expired.
• Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place.

FAQs

How To Disconnect A Battery’s Terminals?

1.  Confirm the engine and any electrical equipment are off before handling the battery.
2.  Disconnect the negative (black) terminal first, followed by the positive (red) terminal.
3.  Once those are disconnected, you can remove the battery from its mount or case.

What Should Kind Of Grease Be Used On Battery Terminals?

Any petroleum-based grease or dielectric grease can be used to protect battery terminals from corrosion. Make sure not to use any conductive lubricant, as this could cause a short circuit.

Can Cleaning Battery Terminals Without Disconnecting Them Be Done Safely?

Yes, it is possible to clean battery terminals without disconnecting them. However, extreme caution should be taken when doing so, as there is a risk of sparking or short-circuiting the battery if not done correctly. It is highly recommended that you consult an automotive expert before attempting this.

What Should I Do If Corrosion Has Already Formed On The Terminals?

If corrosion has already formed on your battery terminals, use baking soda and water to neutralize it. Afterward, rinse the terminals with clean water and apply petroleum jelly or dielectric grease to protect them from further corrosion.

Conclusion

Cleaning your car’s battery terminals is an essential maintenance task that should be done regularly. You can ensure that your car will start reliably and quickly each time by identifying and treating corrosion on your battery’s terminals. Keep an eye out for any signs of corrosion or build-up on the terminals and address them quickly to prevent any further problems. By taking the necessary precautions and regularly cleaning your car’s battery terminals, you can ensure that your car runs reliably and efficiently.