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What causes battery corrosion?

My dad was working on my car and he said that my battery has some corrosion residue. I’m not sure what could have caused it, I feel like I take pretty good care of my car. What causes battery corrosion?

avatar
Payton Ternus · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
How nice of your dad to work on your car for you!
Whether it’s
car insurance
, batteries, or oil changes, lots of things regarding your car require some upkeep. Car batteries contain water and sulfuric acid, and when the liquid or gas version of this combination comes into contact with the metal outside the battery, a chemical reaction occurs and causes corrosion. Here is how it can be caused:
  • Age: Corrosion can be expected when the battery nears the end of its life, typically 5 or 7 years.
  • Battery terminals: Terminals are made of conductive metals, like copper, and are easily corroded by any escaping battery liquid or gas.
  • Overcharged battery: The extra warmth from an overcharged battery can force battery liquid to escape onto the cables.
  • Refillable batteries: If the battery is filled with too much water, it can easily leak out.
  • Vents: The vents designed to let gas escape may be in a position where the gas comes into contact with the terminals.
It’s easy (and normal) for battery corrosion to happen—but it’s even easier to save money on car insurance. Just download the
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