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How do you fix a dead cell on a car battery?

I’ve been having issues with my battery. I really don’t want to spend another $400 on a brand new battery. I’ve heard you can fix a dead cell. What’s the easiest way to fix a dead cell on a car battery?

avatar
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Fixing a dead cell on a car battery can be a great way to save money. While you can use Epsom salt and distilled water to fix a dead cell on a car battery, it is extremely dangerous.
If you aren’t 100% comfortable with the steps or start to feel overwhelmed, visit a
mechanic
! They’ll be happy to help replace or restore your battery, and while it’ll cost more, you have some peace of mind.
That said, if you’d like to continue, here’s what you’ll need to do:
  1. Put on protective gear: You’ll need gloves and safety goggles.
  2. Heat distilled water with Epsom salts: Heat half a quart of distilled water with eight ounces of Epsom salts.
  3. Check the battery: If needed, clean any corrosion off the battery with baking soda and water.
  4. Use a screwdriver to remove the battery top: You’ll want to unscrew the top to expose the battery cells.
  5. Fill the battery cells: Using the Epsom salt and distilled water combo, fill the battery cells. Using a plastic funnel will ensure you don’t spill the solution anywhere.
  6. Recover the battery and charge for 24 hours.
And you’re all set! That said, if you’d like to continue improving the life of your battery, you can repeat this process up to three times.
Now that you’ve saved some money on your car repairs, take an extra minute to save on your car insurance with the
Jerry
app.
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