Things You'll Need:
- Wire brush
- Water
- Battery cleaner
- Baking soda (optional)
- Vinegar (optional)
- Socket and ratchet
- Wrench
- Battery terminal protector
- Distilled water (optional)
- Battery charger
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Step 1
Clean the terminals. The corrosion and gunk that builds up on the terminals interferes with the electrical current, so you want to clear that off. Use a wire brush to knock off the worst of the corrosion; adding some pressurized water from a garden hose can make the job easier.
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Step 2
Go an extra step with the terminals. Purchase an aerosol can of battery cleaner from an automotive or hardware store. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. The foaming cleaner should get a lot more of the corrosion off. For a green cleaning solution, dump a little baking soda on the terminals and then pour a small amount of vinegar over the baking soda. The combination causes a foaming reaction that helps scrub the terminals. Whichever option you go for, be sure to rinse off with some water afterwards to clear away the debris.
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Step 3
Tighten the battery. Try wriggling the battery and see if it's shifting around. If it is, you want to find the bracket or clamps holding the battery in place and use a socket to tighten them. This is important because vibrations in the battery cause the cells to break down and it will shorten the life of that battery. Turn the bolts just enough so that the battery isn't moving anymore--do not over-tighten.
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Step 4
Tighten the battery cables. Just like a plug that's not pushed all the way into an outlet, loose cables mean you're not getting a strong connection. This could give you trouble starting your car, so you want to be sure these cables are tight. Use a wrench and make sure the connection is snug, but once again, don't tighten to the point of risking breakage.
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Step 5
Seal terminals with battery terminal protector. You should fine a can of this at the auto parts store right next to the battery cleaner. Once your terminals are clean and your cables tight, spray the metal connections with the terminal protector. You're basically applying a paint that coats the terminals. This helps protect them and slows corrosion.
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Step 6
If your battery is labeled "maintenance-free," skip this step. Some batteries, particularly in older cars, require you to periodically add distilled water to the cells. Use a screwdriver to gently pry the caps off. There should be six holes underneath that you pour the water into. Fill until the electrical plates inside are covered. Do not fill to the top. It's necessary to leave space at the top for the gases that build inside the battery.
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Step 7
When storing a car over the winter, or between shows, it's a good idea to disconnect the battery so there's no continual draw on it. When you're ready to drive it again, charge the battery slowly, over a five- to eight-hour period. A slow charge is much better for the battery performance, so leave enough time to get the full charge in before starting it up.
