What Causes Car Battery Corrosion?

By Dale, Autoplex Auto Service | Tempe, AZ

We have all seen it: that crusty, white or blueish powder that builds up around your car battery terminals. But what actually causes it, and more importantly, can it leave you stranded?

At Autoplex Auto Service, we see battery issues daily. Understanding why corrosion happens is the first step in making sure your car starts every time you turn the key.

The Science Behind the Corrosion

Battery corrosion isn't just "dirt"; it is a chemical reaction. It is primarily created by a combination of two factors: heat and acid.

Inside your battery, chemical reactions are constantly occurring to store and release energy. These reactions produce gases. As the temperature rises, the battery vents these gases. The sulfuric acid vapor coming up through the vents reacts with the metal on your positive and negative terminals, creating that buildup of corrosion.

This buildup creates resistance, making it harder for the battery to send power to your starter. If left unchecked, it prevents the car from starting or charging properly.

Our Goal: Prevention Over Panic

The worst time to find out your battery is bad is 7:00 AM on a Tuesday.

We know the sinking feeling of trying to leave for work or take the kids to school, only to hear a "click" instead of an engine roar. That is why our goal is to check your battery every time you come in.

By monitoring the condition of your battery and cleaning off corrosion early, we can predict a failure before it happens. We want to catch the issue in our shop so you don't end up stranded in your driveway or a parking lot.

Stay Charged and Ready

Don't wait for the click. Periodic battery checks are the best way to ensure peace of mind.

If you see corrosion building up on your battery, or if it has been a while since your last check-up, come see us.