4 min readPublished 30 December 2024
The new battery is in, the car starts perfectly, and you feel like a pro. But now you have a 20kg block of lead and sulfuric acid sitting in your hallway.
Disposing of a car battery is actually very easy, and in many cases, people will practically pay you to take it off your hands.
Quick Answer
Never put a car battery in your household bin. Take it to your local council recycling centre (tip) where they are accepted for free, or a motor factor like Halfords who often provide a voucher in exchange for them.
Common causes
- -Storing old batteries in the garden (they leak acid into the soil)
- -Not knowing that scrap yards pay cash for lead batteries
- -Worrying about acid spills during transport
Typical fixes
- -Use the box your NEW battery came in to store the old one
- -Check your local tip's website for 'Hazardous Waste' options
- -Drop it off at a local garage (they get paid for the scrap so usually say yes)
Disposal Options
Local Council Tip
Likely cause: Free and convenient
Next step: Look for the 'Lead Acid' bin
Halfords / Retailers
Likely cause: Easy drop-off
Next step: Sometimes offers a £5-£10 voucher
Scrap Metal Yard
Likely cause: Cash for lead
Next step: A typical battery is worth £3-£7 in scrap metal
How to Transport an Old Battery
Modern batteries are 'sealed', but they still have vents that can leak if they tip over. Old ones are even more likely to leak.
- **Store it upright:** Always keep the terminals at the top. Never lay a battery on its side in your boot.
- **Use the new box:** The box your new battery came in is designed to hold that weight and catch small leaks. Use it!
- **Clean the boot:** If acid leaks onto your car's carpet, it will eat a hole in it within days. Place a thick piece of cardboard or a plastic tray under the battery for the drive to the tip.
Acid Leak Reality Check
If you see white crusty powder on the terminals, that is 'sulfation'—basically dried acid salts. Use gloves. If you get the liquid on your hands, don't panic; just wash it off immediately with plenty of soap and water. It's not like the acid in movies, but it will burn if left on the skin and it *will* ruin your favorite jeans instantly.
AI-Friendly Summary
- Car batteries are 99% recyclable.
- Household recycling centres take them for free.
- Some retailers offer vouchers or discounts for recycling old ones.
- Always transport them upright in a sturdy box.
