Why is My Car Battery Swelling?

From time to time we discover when we pop a vehicle’s hood, that its 12v battery is a little (or very) swollen. This seems to happen more frequently in older or modified vehicles…at least in our experience.

So why does this happen?

Well, first if you see that your battery is swollen, DO NOT DRIVE THE VEHICLE OR ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE BATTERY. Batteries contain acid and a swollen battery should be treated like a powder keg. If it explodes, best case scenario is that you will damage vital engine components and possibly the frame (an expensive or even catastrophic repair). The worst case scenario is that it can severely injure you! Your best bet is to tow the vehicle to a licensed mechanic or auto care professional.

The main reason that batteries swell is from over charging. If an alternator has a faulty voltage regulator, it will overcharge the battery and build up hydrogen gas faster than the battery can dissipate.

A new battery, new alternator, and possibly a wiring diagnosis may be required to absolve the car of any further issues.

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