Does a leaking car battery need to be replaced?
2 Answers
Car battery leakage does not necessarily require replacement. If the leakage is caused by cracks between the upper cover and the base tray, it can often be resolved by plastic welding. Alternatively, the issue might stem from leaks at the safety valve or wiring connections, in which case the corresponding components need to be repaired or replaced. However, if the electrolyte leakage is severe (emptying in a short time) and the above methods cannot resolve the problem, then replacing the battery becomes necessary. A car battery, also known as a storage battery, is a type of battery that works by converting chemical energy into electrical energy. The term 'battery' commonly refers to lead-acid batteries, which are primarily made of lead and its oxides, with sulfuric acid solution serving as the electrolyte.
A leaking car battery must be replaced—I’ve personally experienced this multiple times. The battery contains electrolyte, which is highly acidic. Once it leaks, it can corrode metal components under the car, such as the chassis and wire connectors, leading to rust and damage. Over time, not only does the battery’s capacity drop, making it hard to start the car, but it can also cause short circuits, risking an engine bay fire—extremely dangerous. Leaks are usually caused by battery aging, cracks, or excessive charging pressure. My advice: stop using the car immediately, clean the leak with baking soda water to neutralize the acid, then head straight to a repair shop for a new battery. A typical battery lasts only 3–5 years. Delaying replacement could lead to bigger losses, like corrosion spreading to the engine, costing thousands in repairs—not worth it. Safety first—replace it ASAP.
