Battery corrosion manifests through several key signs and symptoms:
- Visible crusty deposits – Look for a white, greenish, or bluish flaky substance on battery terminals, often resembling mold or fungus. These deposits form due to chemical reactions between battery acid vapors, hydrogen gas, and metal terminals.
- Electrical issues
- Slow engine cranking or failure to start, as corrosion disrupts power flow.
- Dim headlights/electronics due to reduced current transfer.
- Intermittent electrical functions (e.g., flickering lights, erratic dashboard behavior).
- Terminal color indicators
- Negative terminal corrosion often suggests undercharging.
- Positive terminal corrosion may indicate overcharging.
- Structural abnormalities
- Bloated battery case (visible swelling).
- Leaking electrolyte around terminals or case seams.
- Frayed/damaged cables near corroded terminals.
- Age-related patterns – Corrosion rarely occurs on new batteries but becomes common in batteries over 5 years old. Persistent corrosion after cleaning often signals imminent battery failure.
Key causes include hydrogen gas leakage, overfilling battery fluid, and environmental factors like salt/moisture exposure. Regular terminal cleaning and proper charging maintenance can delay corrosion.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/what-are-the-signs-of-battery-corrosion/
