Originally Posted By: IndyIan
So is a leaking battery a reason to return it? I've always just put up with it as the battery seemed to last for quite a while anyways.
Cracked terminals do not affect the battery's operation as far as voltage goes. Cracked terminals do cause that fuzzy crud buildup, and they do eat up the terminals and wiring, all of which affects the car's operation.
You may find it to be impossible to "return" the battery for cracked terminals, unless you can prove the mishandling occurred before you took possession of the unit. About 99% of fuzzy corrosion is due to somebody overtightening the terminals, and the battery places are quite aware of this.