Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 2: Cleaning with baking soda
• Method 2 of 2: Cleaning in an emergency
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

It has happened to almost everyone: a car that won't start. Sometimes it is a faulty part, but often this frustrating problem is caused by corroded battery terminals. You can save a lot of headaches and costs if you know how to clean corroded battery terminals yourself.

To step

Method 1 of 2: Cleaning with baking soda

1. Make sure your car is off. This prevents the cables from accidentally getting grounded.
2. See how the poles of your battery are placed. There are two types.
   • If the battery terminals are on the side, you will need an 8 mm wrench to loosen the cable clamps.
   • If the battery terminals are on top of the battery, you will need either a 10 mm wrench or a 13 mm wrench.
3. Loosen the nut of the negative cable clamp (-). Remove the cable from the battery terminal.
   • Do the same for the positive cable (+). If the clamps are difficult to get off the battery, try turning them slightly while pulling them up.
4. Inspect the battery for cracks that could leak battery acid. If you see cracks, you should replace the battery.
5. Inspect battery cables and clamps for damage. If you find a large crack you will need to replace these parts.
6. Mix 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of baking soda with 250 ml of very hot water. Immerse an old toothbrush in the mixture and use it to brush the top of the battery to remove any corrosion.
   • You can even dip the ends of the battery cables in hot water to dissolve any corrosion on the ends.
7. Scrub the battery terminals and terminals with the toothbrush. Remember to always dip your toothbrush in the baking soda and water mixture.
8. Clean the battery and battery cables with cold water. Remove the baking soda and corrosion residue with the water. Clean the battery and terminals with a clean cloth.
9. Grease all exposed metal on the battery posts and terminals. Use petroleum jelly or a spray specifically designed to protect battery terminals.
10. Reconnect the positive battery clamp (+) to the correct battery post. Tighten the nut with your wrench.
    • Do the same with the negative clamp (-). Check that the clamps are tight by turning them by hand.

Method 2 of 2: Cleaning in an emergency

1. Always have a pair of gloves and a key of the correct size in the car.
2. Loosen the battery terminals slightly with the key. Do not completely remove the cables.
3. Pour cola over the battery in a straight line from the inside to the outside. Repeat this in the opposite direction.
4. Let the cola soak for a minute or two and then clean it with water. Retighten the battery clamps and try to start the car.

Tips

• You can buy a spray designed to clean batteries. The acid is detected with some brands. These varieties usually take less time, but you should always read the instructions on the aerosol can, because each variety is different.
• Instead of a toothbrush, you can also use a battery terminal brush or sandpaper if there is a lot of corrosion.

Warnings

• The negative cable should always be removed first and reconnected last. This is to avoid sparks.
• Take off your jewelry before you start. Rings and bracelets can be grounded, or they can catch on parts in the engine compartment.
• Always wear protective clothing.

Necessities

• Safety glasses
• Rubber gloves
• Open-end wrench: 8 mm, 10 mm or 13 mm
• Toothbrush
• Baking soda
• Water
• Cup or bucket
• Brush for battery terminals (optional)
• Petroleum jelly or a spray intended to protect battery terminals