How to clean 12 volt electrical connectors?

As an auto mechanic I see so many electrical issues from dirty connectors. My pro tips: Skip the Coca-Cola or other home remedies - they can leave sticky residues. Use proper electrical contact cleaner from an auto parts store. For really baked-on corrosion a mix of vinegar and baking soda works but you MUST rinse and dry incredibly well as vinegar is acidic.

For the actual metal pins inside multi-pin connectors (like trailer plugs) get a set of electrical contact cleaning tools - they have tiny brushes that fit into the sockets. A dab of dielectric grease after cleaning is crucial especially in marine or off-road environments. And check those ground connections too! Often the problem isn't the positive terminal but a corroded ground point on the chassis. Clean both ends of the circuit for best results.

Cleaning 12V connectors (like car battery terminals trailer connectors or RV connections) is important to prevent voltage drop and electrical issues. Here's a safe method: First DISCONNECT THE POWER - for car batteries disconnect the negative terminal first then positive. You'll need: a wrench baking soda water a stiff brush (old toothbrush works) wire brush and electrical contact cleaner.

1) Make a paste of baking soda and water (about 3:1 ratio). 2) Apply it to the corroded terminals - it'll fizz as it neutralizes acid corrosion. 3) Scrub with the stiff brush. 4) For stubborn corrosion use a dedicated battery terminal brush or fine sandpaper. 5) Rinse with clean water and dry completely. 6) Spray with electrical contact cleaner (like CRC or WD-40 Specialist) to remove any remaining residue. 7) Once dry apply a thin layer of dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion before reconnecting. Reconnect positive first then negative. This process works for any 12V connection - just be thorough with drying since water and electricity don't mix! This video tutorial shows the process clearly.