Causes of car battery leakage
There are many different reasons why a battery may leak, all of which require explanation. In some cases, understanding these possible causes can help prevent such cases from premature battery failure in the future. Below are some of the most common reasons why a car battery leaks:
1. Overloading
2. Accidental damage
3. Exposure to extreme temperatures
4. Vibration due to poor tightening
5. Sulfation of lead plates
6. Age
What to do?
In general, car battery leakage can be classified in two different ways: minor or major. Batteries with even minor leaks, often near the terminals, can be carefully cleaned and monitored closely in the future.
Cleaning up this minor electrolyte leak can be done by applying a small amount of baking soda and water to the affected area and then gently wiping away any residue. Appropriate PPE (chemical resistant gloves, safety glasses, etc.) should be worn.
If a moderate to severe battery leak is discovered, the affected battery should be properly disposed of. Before removing this battery, the boiling sulfuric acid should be neutralized by pouring a large amount of baking soda and water over it. The battery should then be removed and taken to a certified battery disposal company. Before installing a new battery, any remaining battery acid from a previous spill should be cleaned.
How dangerous is a leaking car battery?
A leaking car battery is a danger that needs to be addressed immediately, regardless of the situation. The fluid found in most car batteries is known as sulfuric acid. This chemical is extremely potent and known for its inherent toxicity and corrosiveness. Prolonged contact with sulfuric acid gas can cause respiratory problems, and direct contact can cause severe chemical burns.
In addition, car batteries contain lead plates that react with the aforementioned sulfuric acid. Because of this, anyone exposed to sulfuric acid will almost always be exposed to some degree of lead. Lead is considered to be a major irritant to the kidneys and nervous system.
Can a leaking car battery explode? Although rare, a leaking car battery can explode. Some examples can be found here and here. This can be caused by overcharging, which causes the electrolyte in the battery to boil.
The accumulation of hydrogen gas mixed with air can create a highly flammable environment that can cause an explosion if a spark or other ignition source is present. What liquid is coming out? When car owners say their “battery is leaking,” all they mean is that sulfuric acid is leaking from the battery casing.
Sulfuric acid is found in virtually all car batteries, where it acts as a reaction medium with the battery’s lead plates. This is where the term “lead-acid battery” comes from.
What would happen if you accidentally came into contact with the leaking contents? If you accidentally come into contact with acid leaking from a car battery, you should get to water as soon as possible.
You should wash your hands and other affected areas thoroughly with cold water for several minutes. If you have baking soda, you can also use it as a neutralizing agent to prevent acid burns.
What’s that smell? The smell that often occurs when a car battery leaks is that of sulfuric acid. This smell is similar to that of rotten eggs, as well as other smells that result from chemicals composed of sulfur.
The stronger the sulfuric acid that is released, the stronger this smell will be. Also, the smell of sulfuric acid often lingers for a while after cleaning.
Can a leaking battery be repaired? In most cases, you should not attempt to repair a leaking car battery, especially if the underlying leak is relatively severe. This is because improperly repairing a battery can cause significant stress in the future, which can pose serious safety risks.
Nowadays, even most specialized workshops refuse to repair damaged batteries, insisting instead on a necessary replacement. Car batteries do not last forever. A leaking battery is a good enough reason to replace it, just like any other battery.