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Cleaning Car Battery Terminals

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# Cleaning Car Battery Terminals
This playbook is a step-by-step guide on how to clean corrosion from car battery terminals to maintain strong electrical connections and ensure the vehicle operates reliably.

### Step 1: Safety First
Turn off the vehicle and remove the keys from the ignition. Put on safety goggles and gloves to protect your eyes and skin from battery acid.

### Step 2: Identify Terminals
Open the hood and locate the battery. Identify the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.

### Step 3: Disconnect Terminals
Using a wrench, first loosen the bolt on the negative terminal and disconnect it. Then, loosen and disconnect the positive terminal.

### Step 4: Remove Corrosion
Use a battery cleaning solution or a mixture of baking soda and water to clean any corrosion present on the terminals and battery posts. Apply the solution with an old toothbrush or a terminal cleaning brush.

### Step 5: Rinse &amp; Dry
Rinse the terminals and battery posts with clean water. Make sure to dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth or towel to prevent any short-circuiting.

### Step 6: Reconnect Terminals
Reattach the battery terminals, starting with the positive one. Tighten the bolts firmly to ensure a good connection.

### Step 7: Final Checks
Make sure everything is secure and there are no loose connections. Dispose of any cleaning materials safely and wash your hands thoroughly after completing the task.

## General Notes

### Battery Inspection
Before performing maintenance, inspect the battery for any signs of damage or leaks which may require it to be replaced rather than cleaned.

### Corrosion Prevention
After cleaning, consider applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the terminals, which can help prevent future corrosion.

### Regular Maintenance
Aim to check and clean your battery terminals regularly as part of routine vehicle maintenance to avoid starting issues and extend the battery life.