Battery Terminal Corrosion? How to Clean it in 5 Simple Steps, by Mech Lesson on YouTube. 9 min 12 s.
- Video length
- 9 min 12 s
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Park on level ground, switch off the engine and all lights and accessories, then put on gloves and safety glasses before you open the hood.
Look at both terminals for white or blue powder. Find the negative terminal, usually marked with a minus sign or a black cover.
Loosen the negative clamp with a wrench and lift the cable away from the battery. Then disconnect the positive cable the same way.
Mix about three tablespoons of baking soda with a cup of water to make a cleaning paste or solution.
Brush the mix onto the terminals and clamps. Let it fizz for a minute, then scrub the corrosion off with a small brush or old toothbrush.
Wipe the terminals and clamps dry with a clean cloth. Check the metal for cracks, pitting or loose clamps and replace any damaged parts.
Reconnect the positive cable first and tighten the clamp. Then connect the negative cable and make sure neither clamp twists by hand.
Spread a thin coat of petroleum jelly or terminal protector spray over both terminals to slow down new corrosion.
Tips and common mistakes
Never let a wrench or metal tool touch both terminals at once, since that can cause a spark or short.
Rinse away all baking soda mix and dry the terminals before you reconnect the cables.
If the corrosion comes back within a few weeks, have the charging system checked, as overcharging can be the cause.
Questions
Can I clean the terminals without disconnecting the battery?
It is possible on some cars, but disconnecting the negative cable first is safer and lets you clean the clamps properly.
Is baking soda safe for the battery?
Yes, a baking soda and water mix neutralises the acid crust. Keep it out of the battery cells and rinse it off painted surfaces.
Why does terminal corrosion come back?
Heat, age and a battery that is being overcharged can all cause it. A thin coat of petroleum jelly and a check of the charging system help.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
