Battery or Battery Pack is Swollen or Bulging

Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) Battery

Overview

Regardless of what caused the battery or battery pack to swell or bulge, it must be replaced. The most common reasons for sealed lead-acid battery swelling or bulging are batteries that were not routinely charged during storage, using the wrong type of battery charger such as one meant for a higher-voltage battery pack, or a short circuit within the electrical system.

Reasons Why the Battery or Battery Pack Has Swollen or Bulged

• The battery or battery pack may have not been routinely charged while the vehicle was in storage or not being used, or it may not have been charged after every ride. SLA batteries and battery packs should be charged after every ride and at least once every 30 day when not in use.
• An incorrect battery charger may have been used to charge the battery or battery pack. Using a charger designed for a higher voltage battery or battery pack will overcharge the battery or battery pack which can cause swelling or bulging. Simarlily using a battery charger that is not made specifically for charging SLA batteries can also cause battery swelling or bulging.
• The battery charger may have malfunctioned and overcharged the battery or battery pack.
• A short circuit in the electrical system may have overloaded and overheated the battery or battery pack.

Steps To Take Before Replacing the Battery or Battery Pack

• If the battery or battery pack leaked battery acid in the battery compartment, neutralize the spill with baking soda, then thoroughly wash and dry the area.
• Test the battery charger's output voltage to verify if it is functioning correctly and not producing too high of a voltage.

Safe Handling of the Swollen or Bulging Battery or Battery Pack

• Cover the exposed metal terminals with electrical tape to prevent short circuiting during storage or transportation.
• If the battery or battery pack is wet or leaking, handle it with disposable plastic gloves and place it in a thick plastic bag to contain the leak.
• Bring the battery or battery pack to a place such as a recycling facility or auto parts store that accepts used sealed lead-acid batteries.