Car batteries are generally resilient parts that last a long time when maintained the right way. In hotter climates like in the Philippines, the typical auto battery would last you three years, or four if you're lucky. That said, your battery isn't impervious to damage, particularly leaks.
Whatever you drive, be it a small hatchback like the Kia Picanto or a midsize SUV like the Nissan Terra, you're bound to encounter a leaking battery at one point or another. It's not terribly likely, especially if you're a good car owner, but it's helpful to know what to do when it happens.
How can I tell if my car battery is leaking?
If you're doing a routine check or you suspect a leaking battery, these are the signs you should check out:
- Battery casing cracks of any size
- Fluid trickling down cracks
- Cracked or damaged vent caps
- Bubbling liquid flowing from vent caps
- Deformed, warped, or visibly damaged battery casing
If you see any of these signs in your car's battery, it could be a cause for immediate replacement. Don't wait until another component becomes damaged. Car batteries have sulfuric acid, and this can be dangerous. Left unchecked, the acid will cause corrosion by oxidizing other parts and causing untold damage.
Its vapor is also a potent respiratory irritant that can cause fatal conditions such as pulmonary edema. Don't even think about skin contact, as sulfuric acid can cause severe burns and even tissue damage. So, don't try to drive around with a damaged car battery. It's not worth it, and it can cause more trouble than it's worth. When in doubt, replace the battery and call it a day.
Can a sealed car battery leak acid?
Many car batteries today boast of being "maintenance-free." These are the sealed variety that promises a better ownership experience. Sealed batteries are distinct from conventional flooded batteries in that their chemical makeup is slightly different. Sealed units consume significantly less water than flooded batteries, so there's typically no need to top them off with water regularly.
Sealed batteries only contain enough liquid to enable the electrolytes to flow and build power. That means considerably less maintenance work and a better ability to function well in different climates. However, sealed units are not without their disadvantages. These batteries tend to not last as long as their flooded counterparts, meaning you'll likely have to replace yours more often.
Like regular flooded batteries, sealed batteries are not invincible. A sealed unit can and will leak acid with enough damage, and when this happens, there's nothing else to do but replace it.
So, whichever type of battery you have on your car, it's clear that leaks are always possible. Battery acid leaks are corrosive and yes, explosive. A leaking battery can catch fire at any moment, and nobody wants that. As we mentioned, don't try to salvage a damaged battery. The best course of action is to replace it with a brand new unit that will keep you safe and serve you well.
Latest Features
-
An Electric Car from BYD That Won’t Break the Bank: The BYD Seagull / Featured Article
Check out why the BYD Seagull’s range, cost savings, and tech features make it a great pick for drivers.
-
What makes the BYD Seal so special? / Featured Article
The new BYD Seal is packed with an impressive range of features; here’s a look at the highlights that make it stand out.
-
How and where to place a child seat / Tips & Advice
There are multiple kinds of child seats available in the market, so we created a quick guide to help you understand how to install them properly and safely.
Popular Articles
-
Cheapest cars under P700,000 in the Philippines
Jerome Tresvalles · Sep 02, 2024
-
First car or next car, the Ford EcoSport is a tough package to beat
Jun 18, 2021
-
Car Maintenance checklist and guide – here’s everything you need to know
Earl Lee · Jan 12, 2021
-
Most fuel efficient family cars in the Philippines
Bryan Aaron Rivera · Nov 27, 2020
-
2021 Geely Okavango — Everything you need to know
Joey Deriquito · Nov 19, 2020
-
Family cars in the Philippines with the biggest trunks
Sep 20, 2023
-
Head to head: Toyota Rush vs. Suzuki XL7
Joey Deriquito · Oct 28, 2020
-
Why oil changes are important for your car
Earl Lee · Nov 10, 2020
-
2021 Kia Stonic — What you need to know about it
Joey Deriquito · Oct 16, 2020
-
Top 7 tips for buying a used car in the Philippines
Joey Deriquito · Nov 26, 2020