Is my battery still good?

Question

I put in a brand new battery, but it was sitting too high and grounded on the hood, causing a fire. The fire wasn't too bad, but it did melt the plastic on top of the battery and warp it a little. At $85 I don't want to just throw it away. Is there some way I can test it to see if it's still safe?

Answer 1

Any damage to a battery is considered unusable. Sorry for the loss. Trying to reuse it, can be catastrophic due to acid fumes leaking out. Be safe and replace it.

Answer 2

As long as you check the battery power output by using a battery tester the voltage should be around 12 volts if the voltage output is low  your battery has an acid leak or try to add some electrolyte and recharge the battery if the voltage is still not 12 volts. sad to say . buy a new battery

Answer 3

cheap batt! as long as it doesn't leak acid or fumes, and it won't fracture in normal use,  it should be ok.  Make sure the posts are secure, and IT WON"T HAPPEN AGAIN!!!!!

Answer 4

try it. no warrenty? u could try to exchange it

Answer 5

Seems like you put a battery that was too big (size) in your truck...If the case of the battery has been compromised, replace it...You do not know if there is any internal damage to the battery from the fire even if the voltage and amperage readings are normal.

Answer 6

Warped and not leaking, that will be okay but any signs of leakage and you will need to get a new battery but remember to be careful because yes they can and will explode......

Answer 7

Just try charging and staring the car. If it work then the battery is still good.

One quick way to test if the battery is holding charge is to turn on the headlights and measure the voltage.  It should not dip below 12V (even for 20 or 30 seconds).

Just make sure you don't have any leaks.  Acid leaks will cause MORE problems than another $85.  I once had a car wear the battery leaked and shorted a whole wire harness.  

WOW!  $$$$

Good Luck...

Answer 8

what kind battery???  just try it, they dont blow up lol