Maybe it’s the burnt electrical smell that alerts you to a problem under the hood of the melted car battery terminals
Or, it is the repeated failure of the car to start, whichever it is, the sight of melted battery lead terminal(s) is not only scary but also worrisome as it can lead to a fire.
This post lists the likely reasons why your car battery terminal(s) melt and offers tips to prevent it from happening.
What Causes Melting of the Car Battery Terminals?
If the terminals melt, it is probably because of one of the following:
#.1 The battery terminals are loosely connected to the battery posts. Battery terminals that don’t make firm contact with the battery posts can spark, or arc building up a lot of heat that leads to them melting.
#2. Use of poor-quality cables or terminals. Perhaps the battery terminals or cables used are of low quality.
Have you for instance recently replaced the original manufacturer cables because of a corrosion issue?
If so, double-check that you’re using good quality, appropriately sized wire cables and terminals that can reliably and safely handle the current flowing to and from the battery.
What to Do when Batteries Melt?
It’s advisable to have the car’s electrical system tested at a reputable car auto parts store. Whereas the fault could be limited to the loose battery terminals, it could be a wider issue including a faulty car starter, its connections, or even damaged battery cables.
A thorough check ensures that the underlying fault is identified, and fixed to avoid a repeat of the melting which can lead to a fire.
Always use good quality recommended car battery terminals and cables and make sure they are securely fastened to the car battery post(s).
Tips to Stop Battery Terminals Melting
Yes, if caught in time. Typically, the car may struggle to start even with a new battery terminal(s) fitted.
This can be a giveaway sign that the battery terminals are loose, and spark which can lead to melting.
Make sure that the car battery terminals are securely fasted (not too tight) but snug and cannot be rotated from side to side, a sign that they’re loosely fastened.
Related Questions
Positive Battery Terminal Melting – What Causes it?
If the positive battery terminal has melted, it’s usually one of two things, either the terminals used are of low quality and cannot handle the current flow, or they are loosely fitted spark, and arc with the heat buildup leading to the melting.
Make sure you use quality battery terminals and connect them securely.
How to Repair a Melted Battery Terminal
If the battery terminal is melted, you’ll need a new set of terminals, possibly new battery cables, and a battery.
Have the car battery and the car’s electrical system inspected at a reputable car auto parts store.
You may also be interested in this post: Car battery terminals stuck (How to remove them)
Closing Thoughts
If your car battery terminals are melting, check that you’re using quality terminals and that they are securely fastened.
If unsure how to do it, have t fixe at a reputable auto parts store.
Loosely fitting battery terminals can cause a fire
Recommended Posts
