How To Clean Battery Terminals With Coke?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

The Coca-Cola method can help clean battery terminals to some extent due to the presence of phosphoric acid in the soda, which dissolves corrosion. However, for more effective and thorough cleaning, it is recommended to use specialized battery terminal cleaners such as Napa battery terminal cleaners. After cleaning, applying terminal protectants like Aquaphor or Green Grease can prevent future corrosion and extend the life of the terminals. Remember to disconnect the battery properly, wear safety gloves, and clean all parts of the terminals and bolts for best results.

The Importance of Clean Battery Terminals:

Proper maintenance of your car’s battery terminals is essential for optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle’s electrical system. Over time, corrosion and grime can build up on the terminals, hindering the flow of electricity and potentially leading to starting issues or even complete battery failure.

• Ensure reliable starts: Clean terminals provide better electrical contact, reducing the chances of your car failing to start, especially in cold weather or critical moments.
• Prolonged battery life: Corrosion can damage the terminals and the battery, leading to a shorter lifespan. Keeping them clean extends the life of your battery.
• Prevent electrical issues: Corroded terminals can cause electrical problems in your car, leading to malfunctions and costly repairs.
• Improve fuel efficiency: A well-maintained electrical system allows your car’s engine to operate more efficiently, contributing to better fuel economy.

Step-by-Step Guide: Cleaning Battery Terminals with Coca-Cola

Gather the Necessary Materials:

• Coca-Cola (or any other carbonated soft drink with phosphoric acid)
• A wire brush (preferably two sizes: large and small)
• A plastic cup or container to soak the battery terminals
• Napa battery terminal cleaner (optional, for better results)
• Green Grease or Aquaphor (petroleum jelly) for post-cleaning protection

Disconnect the Battery:

• Before cleaning, ensure the vehicle’s engine is turned off, and the keys are removed from the ignition.
• Disconnect the negative (black) terminal first, followed by the positive (red) terminal, using the appropriate wrench or pliers.

Apply Coca-Cola to the Terminals:

• Pour Coca-Cola generously over the battery terminals. Ensure that the liquid covers all parts of the terminals and the nuts and bolts in the back of the terminal.

Wait and Watch

• Allow the Coca-Cola to sit on the terminals for about 10 minutes. During this time, the acid in the soda will work to dissolve the corrosion.

Scrub Away

• Use a wire brush to scrub the battery terminals, bolts, and surrounding areas thoroughly.
• Scrub until the terminals and connections are visibly cleaner and free from corrosion.

Rinse and Repeat

• After scrubbing, rinse off the Coca-Cola residue with clean water.
• If there’s still significant corrosion, repeat the process for better results.

Dry and Apply for Terminal Protection

• Ensure the terminals are completely dry before proceeding.
• Apply a corrosion-resistant terminal protectant such as Aquaphor, Green Grease, or Vaseline.

Superior Products for Battery Terminal Cleaning

Napa Battery Terminal Cleaner

• Napa battery terminal cleaner is a specialized product designed to clean battery terminals effectively.
• It provides a quick and efficient solution for removing corrosion and ensuring optimal electrical contact.

Green Grease and Aquaphor

• Green Grease and Aquaphor are recommended after using the cleaner to protect the terminals from future corrosion.
• Vaseline can also be used as a substitute for Aquaphor.

DIY vs. Professional Cleaning: Pros and Cons

1. DIY Cleaning (Coke Method):
   • Pros: Cost-effective, readily available materials can yield acceptable results for mild corrosion.
   • Cons: Not as effective for severe corrosion, temporary solution, and requires more effort than specialized products.
2. Professional Cleaning (Specialized Products):
   • Pros: Highly effective, specifically designed for the task, saves time and effort, and prevents future corrosion.
   • Cons: Higher cost compared to DIY methods.

Expert Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Car Battery

Regularly Inspect Battery Condition

• Check the battery for any signs of leakage, bulging, or damage. Address any issues promptly.

Keep Battery Terminals Tight

• Ensure the battery terminals are securely tightened to maintain a stable electrical connection.

Monitor Battery Voltage

• Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage regularly. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts.

Avoid Draining the Battery

• Minimize using electrical accessories, such as lights or the radio, when the engine is off to prevent battery draining.

Tip 7: Test the Battery

• If you notice any signs of battery issues or the battery is over three years old, test it at an auto parts store or by a professional mechanic.

FAQs: 

Conclusion

Cleaning your car’s battery terminals is a simple yet crucial task to maintain the health of your battery and ensure reliable starting. While Coca-Cola can be used as a budget-friendly cleaning solution, specialized products like Napa battery terminal cleaner and post-cleaning protectants like Aquaphor or Vaseline can offer enhanced results and prolong the life of your terminals. Regularly cleaning and protecting your battery terminals will keep your vehicle running smoothly and save you from potential starting issues in the future.

Key Points and Important Notes

• Cleaning battery terminals with Coca-Cola is an old automotive mechanics technician’s trick.
• Coca-Cola contains phosphoric acid, which helps dissolve corrosion on battery terminals.
• Specialized battery terminal cleaners like Napa can provide more effective results.
• After cleaning, applying petroleum jelly (Aquaphor) or Vaseline protects terminals from future corrosion.
• Regularly clean and protect battery terminals to ensure reliable vehicle starting.