The best way to clean corroded battery terminals is with a solution of water and baking soda. To make the solution, pour 1 teaspoon of baking soda into 1 cup of water. For safety reasons, use gloves and safety glasses when cleaning the terminals.
Before attempting to clean the terminals, remove them from the battery posts with a wrench. Take the terminal off the negative post first. Disconnecting the terminal from the positive post before removing the negative post carries the risk of electric shock.
Once the owner removes both terminals, she should pour some of the cleaning solution over them. Then she takes a wire brush and rubs it on the terminals. The owner continues with this process until the corrosion is gone. When the terminals are clean, she wipes them off with a rag or paper towel to remove any of the excess solution. Individuals need to make sure that the battery posts are free of corrosion before reattaching the terminals.
Cleaning a car battery terminal on regular basis is a key automotive maintenance task. If an owner allows the corrosion to build up to significant levels, the car could refuse to start. To prevent battery corrosion, owners can purchase coated pads that inhibit the formation of corrosion on the battery at any local auto parts store.
