ohiosrt10
Full Access Member
Recently, I attempted to start up my 2006 SRT-10 Ram in the garage and take it for a short drive. While pushing the start button, the starter clicked and the dash lights flashed. Immediately, there was a LOUD explosion under the hood! It just about gave me a heart attack. I jumped out of my truck and opened the hood only to find smoke pouring from the battery area. I could see that the battery had completely exploded blowing off the top and sides of the battery into many pieces and there was liquid (acid!) everywhere. I didn't see any evidence of a fire so I immediately put a few layers of gloves on my hands and grabbed a few tools so I could to quickly remove the leaking battery. I then pulled out the hose and flushed the entire engine compartment and all affected areas for quite some time hoping to rinse away any of the damaging acid before it could do permanent damage.
There is now a dent in my hood from the battery terminal shooting upwards as well as acid stains on many of the plastic pieces and some other cosmetic problems in the engine compartment. I'm not sure if any of the mechanical components or anything else is also damaged.
Has anyone had this issue before? I'm not sure if I should call Chrysler or my local dealer to discuss and see if they are willing to cover the damage. I do have the "extended" 7 year warranty that I purchased when I bought the truck new. Would it be reasonable to file a complaint (or attempt a lawsuit) since this is the original OEM battery. Is this a situation where I should also notify the NHTSA? Would this be covered under my comprehensive coverage on my car insurance? I hate to file a claim even if that is an option... I haven't had to file for any claims for any reason in many, many years and certainly don't want to pay a deductible.
Any suggestions are appreciated. I am just thankful the hood was closed and there was no one standing nearby. It could have been so much worse!
Thanks in advance!
