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A corroded battery terminal can be a frustrating issue for car owners. It can cause slow cranking, no-starts, and even damage to the electrical system. Luckily, fixing a corroded battery terminal is a simple DIY task that doesn’t require any special tools or skills. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix a corroded battery terminal.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
To fix a corroded battery terminal, you’ll need a few supplies. You’ll need a battery cleaning brush, baking soda, water, pliers, and a wrench.
Step 2: Safety First
Before you start working on your battery, make sure you’re wearing gloves and eye protection. Batteries contain acid that can be harmful to your skin and eyes.
Step 3: Disconnect the Battery
Use the wrench to disconnect the negative cable from the battery. Then, disconnect the positive cable.
Step 4: Clean the Terminals
Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water. Dip the battery cleaning brush in the solution and scrub the terminals and cable ends. Use pliers to hold the cable ends while you clean them. Rinse the terminals and cable ends with plain water and dry them with a clean cloth.
Step 5: Apply Petroleum Jelly
Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the battery terminals and cable ends. This will help prevent future corrosion.
Step 6: Reconnect the Battery
Reconnect the positive cable to the battery first, then the negative cable. Use the wrench to tighten the cable connections.
Step 7: Test the Battery
Start your car and make sure it’s running smoothly. If you’re still experiencing problems, you may need to have your battery tested or replaced.
Conclusion
Fixing a corroded battery terminal is a simple task that can save you time and money in the long run. By following these steps, you can ensure your car starts smoothly and your electrical system is protected.
