How to Safely Get Rid of a Used Car Battery

Changing and replacing a car battery is common knowledge for most car owners, however, knowing what to do with a used car battery is not. There are several constituents inside a car battery that allows it to cooperate and function within vehicles. These same components are mostly chemical-based, and can be tremendously hazardous in various aspects.

Continue reading to learn why safe battery disposal is so important to our health, safety, and surrounding environment, as well as, how to properly get rid of a used one when the time comes for you to do so.

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Car Battery Anatomy

Car batteries contain several dangerous chemicals, materials, and heavy metals.  For instance, a standard 12 volt car battery contains elements such as lead, plastic, sulfuric acid, and more.  Diesel engine vehicles, like semi-trucks and tractors, may use a 24 volt system; requiring the use of two 12 volt batteries to operate. This means double the toxins, chemicals, and heavy metals. These 12 volt car batteries are made with lead plates and lead dioxide plates. These plates are submerged in an electrolyte solution made up of sulfuric acid and water. The chemical reaction of the two elements creates electrons that let them pass through conductors, running electricity to the vehicle’s engine and inner components.  

When a battery begins to lose its power, it is because the acid within the electrolyte solution has reacted with the plates, changing them from lead and lead dioxide, to lead sulfate. When a car battery is recharged, this same process is simply reversed. All these chemicals that make a vehicle’s battery function have proven useful in the automotive world, but they still need to be handled responsibility to protect ourselves and the environment from harm. One of the best ways to do this is by recycling used car batteries. It is the best and most responsible method to car battery disposal.

Car Battery Recycling

One unique aspect of automotive batteries is that they are almost completely recyclable. This means that nearly all of a battery’s components can be recycled and reused for new car batteries. For example, the lead is virtually 100% recyclable, and can be melted down, filtered, and refurbished in new car parts. The plastic components are also completely recyclable and can be reused in other products. Surprisingly, the sulfuric acid can even be reused. It can be counteracted and purified to be released as uncontaminated water, converted into sodium sulfate (for fertilizers, dyes, etc.), or reused in new car batteries.

To recycle a used car battery, simply take it to a local automotive salvage company near you.  Most auto salvage professionals will accept used batteries and other vehicle parts, regardless of age or condition.  This includes car batteries. Recycling an automotive battery is a great contribution to protecting our environment and preserving our natural resources. 

How to Sell Junk Cars and Automotive Parts

Call GC’s Junk Cars at 317-608-2188 to sell your old car parts or junk car for cash on the spot! We will buy any junk cars and car parts in Central Indiana, regardless of age, make, model, or condition. For those who wish to sell a junk car, we offer free towing with our in-house tow truck, so all you have to do is call and accept our offer! Call 317-608-2188 to request a free estimate, anytime!