You should get a battery terminal service every year. Over time dirt and corrosion builds up in your battery and battery terminals. This corrosion on your battery terminals can lead to poor connections. Late model vehicles have many different on-board computer and networking systems. All of these systems rely on battery voltage to properly operate. Avoid letting a build-up of corrosion remain on the battery terminals as a poor connection can cause starting, drive-ability and all sorts of electrical problems. Disconnecting the battery on some computerized vehicles can also cause issues. You may lose any pre-set features such as radio stations and clock settings. Also, some radios have a anti-theft feature that requires a code to unlock them after battery power is lost. Make sure you have the code if this is the case, check your owner’s manual. Your engine computer may also be reset when power is lost. Your engine computer stores information and makes adjustments over time to compensate for mechanical problems, such as a dirty throttle-body and/or injectors. When the engine computer looses battery power this information may be reset. The engine computer will eventually readjust its self, but you may experience some drive-ability issues in the meantime. It is recommended to have a professional service your battery terminals.
What is Involved
- Battery and terminals are cleaned and conditioned
What Can Happen if I Don’t Do a Battery Terminal Service?
- Starting issues
- Drive-ability issues
- Electrical problems
Notice
Due to the wide range of vehicles makes and models, this is general information and should not be taken as specific to any vehicle. Please consult manufacturer specifications for the correct specifications and repair procedures for your vehicle. This information is meant to be used as a guideline only.