You try to start your car to go to work in the morning, but it won't start. Or the stereo and lights don't seem to be working properly. When you open the bonnet, you may have noticed a white, green or blue powdery substance stuck to the battery terminals. That's what we call 'battery corrosion'. This isn't just a nuisance, it can be harmful to your car and you. So today we're going to talk about how to remove it properly and safely.
What is battery corrosion?
Simply put, it's a chemical reaction. The acid inside a car battery releases hydrogen gas. This gas reacts with the metal parts in the battery, such as lead and copper, and the surrounding air, forming a powdery layer. It's like rusting iron. This is usually seen on the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals of the battery and on the cables connecting them.
Is this battery rust dangerous?
Yes, it can be dangerous. This is dangerous for two reasons.
1. For your health: Battery rust is caustic. This means it can cause irritation and burns to the skin. It can be especially harmful if it gets into the eyes. This is because this rust is caused by the sulfuric acid inside the battery. Also, the gas released from the battery is explosive. Therefore, you need to be very careful when working with a battery.
2. To your vehicle: This rust prevents the electricity from flowing properly from the battery to the vehicle. This can cause the vehicle to not start, the lights to dim, and problems with the AC. If this continues, the vehicle's chassis, electrical wiring, and even the AC lines can be damaged. This will increase the cost even further.
Very important: Safety first! Always work in a well-ventilated, open area when working with a battery. Do not place metal tools (spanners, pliers) on top of the battery. Doing so can cause a short circuit between the two terminals, which can be dangerous.
First aid: What to do if battery acid gets on your body?
This is very important, so remember it well.
- If on skin: Immediately flush the area with running water for 30 minutes. Even if you are wearing gloves, wash your gloves with water after handling, then wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If irritation or redness persists , see your doctor immediately.
- If in the eyes: This is an emergency ! Flush the eye with clean water for 30 minutes and go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Do not delay.
- For further information: If you have any concerns about ingesting such a chemical, you can call the National Poison Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Why does the battery rust like this?
There could be several reasons for this. Let's look at the main ones.
| Reason | Simply put… |
|---|---|
| Overcharging | When a battery is overcharged, it heats up. The acid inside expands and can leak out through the vents. This acid can cause rust to form on the terminals. |
| Battery damage | If there is even the slightest crack or damage to the battery, it can leak acid and cause rust. |
| Overfilling | We add water to some batteries. If we add too much water at a time like this, that excess water can come out of the air holes and cause rust. |
| Cable clamps | If the clamp on the cable is made of copper, if acid leaks, a chemical reaction will occur between the two, forming copper sulfate. That's what you see as the blue color. |
| Battery aging (Age) | The average lifespan of a car battery is about 5 years. It's normal for the battery to rust like this as it ages. |
What do we need to clean rust from the battery?
This job doesn't require any fancy equipment. You can find these things at home.
- Gloves: This is a must! Use a pair of rubber gloves.
- Safety glasses : It's great to have them to protect your eyes.
- Baking soda: Baking soda is used to make cakes.
- Some water
- An old wire brush or toothbrush
- A clean cloth (a microfiber cloth is better)
- Pliers or wrench: Remove the cables.
How do we clean this properly and safely?
Okay, so now let's see how to do this step by step.
1. Safety First: First, turn off the car's engine and remove the key. Then, put on gloves and safety glasses. (Some newer vehicles require you to re-enter a security code on the stereo after disconnecting the battery cables, so keep that in mind too.)
2. Disconnect the cables: This order is very important. First, disconnect the negative (-) cable. It is usually black, or has a 'NEG' or '-' sign on it. Then disconnect the positive (+) cable. It is red. You will need to use pliers or a wrench to disconnect these. Keep the disconnected cables away from the battery.
3. Remove rust: Mix two to three tablespoons of baking soda with a little water to make a thick paste. Now rub this paste well on the rusty areas. You will see it react with bubbles. Then scrub it well with a wire brush or toothbrush to remove the rust.
4. Rinse and dry: Now take some water and rinse the rubbed areas thoroughly. Then, with a clean cloth, wipe the battery, terminals, and cables thoroughly to remove any water and dry them.
5. Reconnect the cables : Now we need to reconnect the cables. We need to do it in the opposite order of removal. That is, first connect the positive (+) red cable. Then connect the negative (-) black cable. Connect the cables firmly, but do not over-tighten.
What can be done to prevent rust from coming back?
There are ways to prevent this problem from recurring after cleaning.
- Check regularly: When you service your car, or at least once a month, open the bonnet and check the battery. If you clean it as soon as it starts to rust, it won't be a big problem.
- Apply a protective coating: After reconnecting the cables, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the battery terminals. Alternatively, there are special battery greases available at auto parts stores. These will help to prevent moisture and air from reaching the terminals, reducing the risk of rust.
- Charge properly: If your vehicle's battery is constantly overcharging or undercharging, it's a good idea to have it checked by a mechanic to find the cause.
Take-Home Message
- Battery rust is caused by sulfuric acid, which is very dangerous to the skin and eyes .
- Be sure to wear gloves before cleaning and work in a well-ventilated area.
- If acid gets in your eyes, immediately rinse with water and go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
- When removing cables , first remove the negative (-) cable, then the positive (+) cable . When installing, do it in the opposite order (positive first, then negative).
- Rust can be largely prevented by regularly checking the battery and applying something like Vaseline.
Battery corrosion, car battery, sulfuric acid, first aid , battery cleaning, ETU
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