Over time, lead-acid batteries lose their ability to hold a charge due to sulfation, where lead sulfate crystals accumulate on the battery plates. This buildup reduces efficiency and, if left untreated, can render the battery unusable. However, reconditioning can help dissolve these deposits, restore performance, and extend the battery’s lifespan.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to safely and effectively recondition a car battery.
What is Car Battery Reconditioning?
Car battery reconditioning is the process of restoring a weak or dead battery to a usable condition instead of replacing it. This involves techniques like desulfation, deep cycling, and using specialized chargers to break down these crystals and restore the battery’s efficiency.
Does Car Battery Reconditioning Really Work?
Car battery reconditioning can work in many cases, but its effectiveness depends on the battery’s condition. If a battery has simply lost capacity due to sulfation, techniques like desulfation chargers or deep cycling can often restore some functionality.
However, if the battery is severely damaged, has a broken cell, or is too old, reconditioning may not be effective. While reconditioning can extend a car battery’s life and improve performance, it is not a guaranteed fix and may only provide a temporary solution.
What You’ll Need to Recondition a Car Battery
To recondition a car battery, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Safety Gear – Gloves and goggles to protect against battery acid and fumes.
- Multimeter – To check the battery’s voltage before and after reconditioning.
- Battery Charger – A slow or trickle charger to recharge the battery safely.
- Battery Load Tester – To check if the battery holds a charge after reconditioning.
- Baking Soda & Water – For cleaning corrosion from battery terminals.
- Wire Brush – To scrub off corrosion and dirt.
- Distilled Water – To refill low electrolyte levels.
- Epsom Salt (Magnesium Sulfate) – Helps dissolve sulfation buildup inside the battery.
How to Recondition a Car Battery
These reconditioning steps apply to lead-acid batteries. Before proceeding, assess whether the battery is suitable for reconditioning by inspecting it for damage, such as cracks or bulges. If the battery is physically compromised, replacing it with a new one is the safest option.
- Gear Up – Wear protective gloves and safety goggles to prevent exposure to battery acid and harmful fumes. Battery reconditioning can be hazardous, so safety comes first.
- Place your car in a well-ventilated area – Work in an open or well-ventilated space to avoid inhaling toxic gases released during the process. Avoid sparks and open flames near the battery.
- Clean the battery terminals – Remove corrosion from the terminals using a mixture of baking soda and water. Scrub with a wire brush to ensure a clean connection.
- Determine the voltage – Use a multimeter to check the voltage. If the reading is below 10 volts, reconditioning may not be effective. A higher voltage means the battery has a better chance of recovery.
- Empty the battery cells – Carefully remove the battery caps and drain the old electrolyte into a safe disposal container. Be cautious, as the fluid is highly acidic.
- Replace battery cell solution – Mix distilled water with Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) and pour it into the battery cells. This helps break down lead sulfate buildup and restore battery function.
- Recharge the battery – Connect the battery to a slow charger and allow it to charge fully. A trickle charge is recommended to avoid overheating and ensure proper restoration.
- Test the battery – Once fully charged, use a multimeter to check the voltage again. Perform a load test to see if the battery holds a charge. If it maintains power, it is ready for use; otherwise, replacement may be necessary.
No Luck with Car Battery Reconditioning? Save on Car Battery Replacement Cost at Neighborhood Roadside Assistance
Reconditioning doesn’t always work, especially if the battery is too old or severely damaged. If your car battery still won’t hold a charge, it may be time for a replacement.
Neighborhood Roadside Assistance offers affordable and reliable car battery replacement services. Our team provides fast, professional assistance to get you back on the road without the hassle. Contact us today for a cost-effective battery replacement solution!