can you submerge a car battery

[VanVictoria]

No, you should never intentionally submerge a car battery. Whether it's a traditional flooded lead-acid battery or a modern sealed AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or Gel battery, submerging it in water is ineffective for charging or cleaning and poses significant risks. Water is not an electrical conductor for the low voltage of a car battery; it actually dilutes the battery's electrolyte solution (a mix of sulfuric acid and water), permanently reducing its power and lifespan. The primary dangers include exposure to corrosive acid, the risk of electrical short circuits that can cause fires or explosions, and the release of highly flammable hydrogen gas.

Submerging a battery doesn't clean its terminals either. The correct method for combating corrosion (the blue/greenish crusty buildup) is to disconnect the battery and apply a mixture of baking soda and water with a wire brush, followed by a thorough rinse and drying.

If a battery is accidentally submerged, like in a flood, it must be considered a total loss. The internal damage and contamination are irreparable. For safety, handle it with extreme caution, wear protective gear, and dispose of it properly at an auto parts store or hazardous waste facility. The only liquid that should ever be added to a serviceable battery is distilled water to maintain the proper fluid level above the lead plates.

Battery Type	Submersion Risk / Effect	Proper Cleaning Method
Flooded Lead-Acid	Extreme hazard; acid dilution, hydrogen gas release, corrosion.	Baking soda solution, wire brush, rinse, dry.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)	Compromised seals; internal short circuits; permanent failure.	Damp cloth wipe; terminal protector spray.
Gel Cell	Damaged valve-regulated seals; rendered unusable.	Damp cloth wipe; ensure terminals are dry.
Lithium-Ion (EVs)	Catastrophic failure; thermal runaway (fire/explosion).	Professional handling only; do not touch.

[SanDylan]

Absolutely not. Think of it this way: the acid inside is what makes the power. Adding water from the outside just weakens that acid. It's like watering down your soda—it just doesn't work right anymore. On top of that, you're mixing electricity and water, which is never a good idea. You could get a nasty shock or even cause a spark near the battery, which can explode because of the hydrogen gas it gives off. If the terminals are dirty, use a dedicated battery terminal cleaner from the auto store.

[DeHannah]

As someone who's worked on cars for years, I can tell you submerging a battery is a surefire way to kill it. The terminals and case aren't designed to be waterproof. Water seeps into places it shouldn't, leading to internal corrosion and short circuits that you can't see. A battery that was holding a charge fine will be completely dead after a dunk. It's not a cleaning hack; it's a replacement expense waiting to happen. Always keep the top of your battery clean and dry for optimal performance.

[VanJoy]

Beyond just ruining your battery, there's a serious environmental concern. A submerged or damaged battery can leak sulfuric acid and lead into the ground or water supply. That's toxic stuff. Proper disposal is critical. If your battery has been flooded, don't just throw it in the trash. Take it to an auto parts store or a recycling center that handles hazardous materials. They'll make sure it's dealt with safely. Trying to 'fix' it by submerging it creates a bigger problem for everyone.