Corroded battery cables and electrical connectors can prevent a vehicle from starting. The electrical power that is needed from the battery is blocked by the corrosion. This corrosion needs to be cleaned in order to keep power flowing to the vehicle. Cleaning electrical connectors is relatively easy with a little baking soda.

  • Corroded battery cables and electrical connectors can prevent a vehicle from starting.
  • The electrical power that is needed from the battery is blocked by the corrosion.

Remove the electrical connectors, or cables, from the battery terminals by loosening the connecting bolts on the electrical connectors with a wrench or a pair of pliers. Remove the positive cable first, which is the red one, and then remove the ground, or black, cable.

Sprinkle the connectors and the battery posts with baking soda. Pour some water over them until they begin to bubble or fizz.

Use a terminal brush to scrub the connectors and battery posts. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the electrical connectors and battery posts are completely clean. Rinse with water and dry with a clean towel.

Reconnect the electrical connectors to the battery posts, starting with the black ground cable. Tighten the connecting bolt until snug.