For most car owners, the battery is usually the last thing to consider until it runs out. You wake one morning, get ready for work, jump into your car, try to switch it on but the car won’t respond. Your battery is dead and a replacement is needed. This is probably something you never want to happen to you in the near future but it is unavoidable if you own the same car for more than 4 or 5 years. What most people don’t realize is that the main factor contributing to battery failure is failing to make the right choice when purchasing the battery in the first place.
The battery is usually the most disregarded component when it comes to vehicle maintenance. It stabilizes the energy supply or voltage that keeps the engine running. The battery ensures that the car has enough electricity to continue running. If the battery is poorly maintained, it can completely shut the car down. The right brand also plays an important role in the battery’s efficiency. Perhaps you’ve read various car battery reviews to get an idea about the best brand out there. To help you find the best car battery brand, we have spent hours of research to create a list of what we think are the best brands right now.
Good car batteries will enable you to start your car, keep your headlights on, and listen to the radio among other things. It is important to choose a car battery that will serve you without major hitches. However, finding the best car battery is a challenge for most people especially in this big market where numerous brands have flooded the market. This is why we’ve chosen to give you a simple guide on the best car battery makers.
Best Car Battery Brands
Different cars require different batteries. Here is our list of the best car batteries brands in no particular order.
AC Delco
ACDelco Gold 48AGM 36 Month Warranty AGM BCI Group 48 Battery, Black
- High density negative paste, improves performance and increases...
- Enhanced life alloy or Silver Calcium stamped alloy increases...
- Calcium lead positive grid, maximizes conductivity and allows for...
- Robust envelope separator with puncture resistant back, allows...
- Vent cap design that resists acid leakage
AC Delco batteries are one of the most recognized and high-performing batteries. They meet all the required standards of quality as per our tests. The terminals are designed to withstand corrosive conditions and have a large reservoir, so they hold charge for many years. There is no maintenance and offer full replacement if any problem occurs with the battery during the limited warranty period. For instance, the ACDelco 94RAGM is an amazing brand with long life and high performance due to its high-density negative paste. They are quite an affordable brand.
Optima
Optima Batteries 8004-003 34/78 RedTop Starting Battery
- 12-Volt, 800 Cold Cranking Amps, Size: 10" x 6 7/8" x 7 13/16"...
- Reserve capacity of 100 minutes for constant performance
- Optimal starting power even in bad weather
- This item is not for sale in Catalina Island. Battery...
- Fifteen times more resistant to vibration for durability....
Optima batteries are quite expensive and are recognized for their durability and ability to work in all conditions and orientations. They have batteries for different types of cars (SUVs, trucks) and not just the standard cars. The Optima 34/78 RedTop is designed to give you a powerful energetic 5-second starting bust. Its lifespan is twice longer than conventional lead-acid batteries. Added features include a fully sealed casing and maintenance free.
DieHard
DieHard batteries are considered premium car batteries for they are built to last forever. If you want a battery to serve you throughout the lifespan of your vehicle, then DieHard is your best bet. They offer a range of car batteries including premium line and heavy duty. The DieHard 38217 Advanced Gold AGM Battery is recommended for heavy loading capacity and a complex mechanism due to its ability to hold ample charge. It has a special design to enable it to sustain itself even in harsh conditions and protect it from any leaks.
Bosch
Bosch S6590B Battery
- Up to 2X longer life* than conventional starter batteries
- Constant power even for short trips, stop-and-go traffic or high...
- Latest technology for start/stop applications
- 4-year free replacement warranty
- Free Roadside Assistance**
You probably have come across this brand in most auto parts shops. It is one of the widely used car batteries in the country due to its affordability and its high performance. Bosch S6508B S6 Flat Plate AGM Battery is believed to outlive the complete life of a conventional battery – living twice as long.
NAPA Car Battery
This is a decent battery to give you a pretty good service for a long time. It can hold out a wide range of temperatures and conditions and are available in different sizes to suit your needs.
Our Favourite Car Batteries
1.ACDelco 48AGM
The ACDelco 48AGM is a long-lasting battery that comes with an insurance plan. It is highly charged receptive and has lengthy cycling capabilities thanks to its AGM technology. The battery can stop and start your car with almost no maintenance procedures or glitches involved. The ACDelco 48AGM is immune to spills and leaks because the electrolyte is held permanently in the glass mat separator. The battery’s oxygen recombination mechanism reduces water loss and provides a maintenance-free performance.
The constant pressure maintained in the plates reduces the active mass that the grid loses. As such, the car battery can last longer than traditional batteries. The ACDelco 48AGM also comes with a 36-month free battery replacement plan. However, the battery terminals, posts and other linked spots contain lead compounds, which can cause grave health problems like reproductive health complications and cancer. That’s why you should wash your hands properly after handling the AGM battery.
Pros
•Maintenance free
•Size: 11.9” x 7.5” x 7.6”
•Easy to install
•Long cycling capability
•Comes with an insurance plan
•Features absorbed glass mat AGM technology
•Lasts longer than a conventional battery
Cons
•Contains lead and other harmful substances
2.ACDelco 94RAGM Battery
The ACDelco 94RAGM Battery offers the highest level of longevity and performance thanks to its absorbed glass design. It is leak-proof and features an oxygen recombination mechanism that reduces water loss. The ACDelco 94RAGM Battery is maintenance free as it can perform well without requiring maintenance. It can last longer than a conventional battery because it consistently maintains pressure on the plates, effectively reducing the active mass that the grid loses. The vent cap design is resistant to acid leaks as well. The ACDelco 94RAGM Battery comes with a 36-month free replacement period. But do take note that the grid is made from calcium lead. Battery posts contain lead and other chemicals that may cause congenital disabilities and cancer, so wash your hands thoroughly after handling the battery.
Pros
•Spill-proof battery thanks to its vent cap design
•Size: 12.4” x 6.9” x 7.5”
•High conductivity
•Easy to install
•Lasts longer than standard batteries
•Requires little maintenance
Cons
•Contains harmful chemicals that can cause grave illnesses if mishandled
3.Optima 34/78 RedTop Starting Battery
The Optima 34/78 RedTop Starting Battery is perfect for adventurous drivers who love taking their car to the limit. Sometimes, it’s tempting to buy a car battery without bearing in mind that you might need to depend on it during harsh weather conditions. The Optima 34/78 can power vehicles in extremely harsh weather conditions. In fact, the best car battery is preferred for a hot rods and off-road vehicle. The battery’s unique spiral cell design and 800 cold-cranking amps allow for a strong and stable power delivery, which is safe for the environment and road users. The ignition power of the car battery is also consistent. The Optima 34/78 RedTop Battery has been tested on prolonged racing, fast launches, and hard corners, so you’re assured that it will perform well. The battery is leak-proof as well.
Pros
•Battery can work on various kinds of vehicle
•Easy to use and install
•Size: 10” x 6.88” x 7.8”
•800 cold cranking amps
•Provides maximum start-up power regardless of the weather condition
•Spill-proof battery
•Highly durable
Cons
•Battery can develop some problems if not utilized on a regular basis
4.Odyssey PC680 Battery
The Odyssey PC680 Battery’s performance improvements and clever design can power vehicles through harsh environments. It is more durable than regular batteries thanks to its rugged construction and leak-proof AGM design, which makes it resistant to shock and vibration. The AGM battery can deliver up to 400 cycles for eighty percent depth of discharge. The Odyssey PC680 Battery also features pure lead plates, which can deliver two times the power output of traditional batteries.
It is perfect for all-terrain and high performance vehicles like snowmobiles, motorcycles, ATVs, light aircraft and personal watercraft. The battery’s leak-proof and absorbed glass mat design also improve its resistance to corrosion, internal gas recycling, and conductivity. Moreover, it can last longer than its deep-cycle counterparts. Each cell is equipped with a safety release valve, which works together with strong intercell connections to reduce the effects of vibration. Since there are no dead gaps between the cylinders, the battery’s reserve capacity has increased to forty percent.
Pros
•Spill-proof battery
•Easy to use and install
•Lasts longer than its deep-cycle counterparts
•Backed by a 2-year warranty
•Performance is significantly improved over regular batteries
•Designed to work in harsh environments
•Best recharge efficiency and sealed lead battery
Cons
•Start-up becomes a problem if left unused for more than a few days
5.Kinetik HC600 BLU Series Power Cell Battery
The Kinetik HC600 BLU Series Power Cell Battery is perfect for those who love powerful cars and sound systems. The 600-watt car battery can produce 800 amps, which is enough to start something with a high-end sound system and a V8. The unit’s audio power cells are compact, durable and powerful. It can handle a wide range of demanding amplifiers consistently for twice as long as traditional batteries can do. The fiberglass mat separators are partially responsible for the battery’s terrific amp power. The mat separators minimize discharge and work like sponges that allow the battery to deliver the best performance at all times. They are vibration-resistant as well.
Pros
•Resistant to vibration and heat
•Highly efficient AGM design
•Easy to use and install
•Perfect for sophisticated sound systems
•Spill-proof battery
Cons
•Battery may cause dimming issues with the car headlights
6.Optima Batteries 8003-151 34R
The Optima 8003-151 34R’s rugged construction offers the best of modern battery technology. If you love hot rods and off-roaders, you will definitely look for a battery that fits your exact needs. The Optima Batteries RedTop can endure harsh weather conditions, so you can depend on it when you’re going off-road. After all, you don’t want to get stuck somewhere just because your car battery died. The 8003-151 34R features a spiral cell design that offers a smooth and clean power delivery.
It’s also equipped with AGM technology, so it’s leak-proof. You can make sure that your car will get a strong startup all the time. The battery can deal with arduous races, hard and fast launches as well as tight corners. The Optima 8003-151 34R is also compatible with trucks, streetcar, hot rod and SUV.
Pros
•Spill-proof and easy to install
•Vibration resistant battery
•Provides a strong start for vehicles every time
•Can withstand harsh weather conditions
•Works with heavy-duty and off-road vehicles
Cons
•Expensive
•Low cold cranking amps and cranking amps
7.Optima Batteries D35 YellowTop Battery
Optima is known for producing highly rated car batteries. The Optima D35 YellowTop Battery is ideal for cars with heavy-duty electronics. You can’t just buy a regular battery if your car is equipped with extra gadgets such as a loud AV system, winches, and hydraulics. The D35 YellowTop Battery is a clean source of power thanks to its unique SpiralCell design, so it’s safe for the environment and motorists. Aside from powering cars with additional gadgets in them, the D35 YellowTop Battery is also great for seasonal use because it has a low self-discharge rate. You can leave the battery undisturbed for an entire winter and use it when spring comes to jumpstart your car. The best thing about it is that you don’t need to charge it up. It will work right away.
The D35 YellowTop Battery has one of the best cycling capabilities out there. It lasts 3x more compared to a regular battery. The battery is also 15x more resistant to vibration. Since it uses AGM technology, its cranking power is enough to power all the extra accessories on board. The D35 YellowTop Battery is compatible with tractors, forklifts and large trucks that have winches.
Pros
•Easy, clean, and efficient to use
•Extremely low self-discharge
•High cranking power
•Uses AGM technology
•Last 3x longer than a regular battery
•Works well on cars that consume a lot of battery power
•15x more vibration resistance
•Can be used even in harsh weather conditions
Cons
•May not work well with early twenty-first century vehicles
•May overheat
8.Odyssey PC925 Battery
The Odyssey PC925 Battery can power almost anything thanks to its clever design that meets all the demands of the market. Battery manufacturers are always looking for ways to produce car batteries that can keep up with the demands of a car owner. If you own a modern car, a regular battery may not be enough to sustain the power demand of your vehicle for very long. The Odyssey PC925 Battery has virgin lead plates, which helps improve the surface area and allow the battery to generate more power.
The PC925 can last 3 times longer and deliver twice as much power as conventional batteries. It can deliver around 400 cycles at eighty percent depth of discharge, making it a great choice for various kinds of vehicle such as off-roaders, high-performance cars, classic cars and normal road cars. The PC925 uses AGM technology, which features high corrosion resistance, conductivity, terminal seals, strong internal cell connections, internal gas recycling and fire redundant cell container. These features can greatly minimize the effects of vibration and improve the performance of a glass mat AGM battery.
Pros
•Easy to install and long-lasting battery
•Works with various kinds of vehicles
•Easy to use and more reliable than conventional batteries
•AGM technology improves efficiency and performance
•Backed by a 3 to 4-year warranty
Cons
•Short lifespan
9.Mighty Max Battery ML35-12
One of the best car batteries today is the Mighty Max Battery ML35-12. It is designed to work on practically anything that needs a battery as the power source. The battery delivers extraordinary performance and cyclic activity thanks to its calcium-alloy grid. It also features the Absorbent Glass Technology that’s used by almost all high-performance car batteries today. It is maintenance-free, and leak-proof thanks to its valve regulated design. As a result, the battery can be used for various applications.
The ML35-12 works on electric vehicles, golf carts, emergency lights, motorcycles, engine starters, garden tools and toys. It is also backed by a 30-day refund and a 1-year warranty. The battery has wide operating temperatures, deep discharge recovery, and a high discharge degree. It can also resist vibration and shocks. The ML35-12 performs well in low and high temperatures and can be mounted anywhere.
Pros
•Glass mat AGM battery
•Comes with a 30-day refund and 1-year warranty
•Works with a wide range of devices and vehicles
•Maintenance-free battery
Cons
•May not work on all devices
10.Kinetik HC800 BLU Car Audio Battery
The Kinetik HC800 BLU Car Audio Battery is a great choice for those who need an alternative power supply for their car or love a powerful sound system. It is leak-proof and doesn’t have external vents, so it’s compatible with most factory-made car battery positions. These features help improve the battery’s longevity and performance. The battery delivers 750 amps or 35 amps per hour. It’s also vibration resistant. The battery is sealed in a case made from reinforced ABS plastic. The extra plate delivers higher voltage and energy density under load, making it one of the best car batteries today.
Pros
•Can be used to power 800W car audio sound systems
•Can replace the standard battery of your car
•Resistant to vibrations and harsh temperatures
•Uses AGM technology
•Spill proof
Cons
•May not work again if it is fully drained
Types of Car Battery
Here are the most common types of car battery and its uses.
•Deep Cycle
A deep cycle battery is built to last longer and provide more power than regular lead-acid starting batteries. It’s usually used for marine applications. A deep cycle battery costs more than a standard starting battery.
•Starting
Starting batteries are designed to supply power to the car’s ignition system and starting motor. It provides brief bursts of power and needs to be recharged frequently.
•Wet Cell
A wet cell battery is also known as a budget battery. This type of battery requires regular maintenance to replace the fluid that’s lost over its service life.
•Lithium-Ion
A lithium-ion battery is lighter and smaller than regular batteries. It’s often found in electric and hybrid cars. Lithium-ion batteries are designed to store more energy, but they have a shorter battery life compared to other kinds of batteries.
•Valve Regulated Lead Acid Batteries
If you don’t want to perform any maintenance, you should consider getting a Valve Regulated Lead Acid battery. Since Valve Regulated Lead Acid batteries are completely sealed, they are leak-proof and don’t need any additional maintenance. AGM and Gel Cell batteries are the main types of Valve Regulated Lead Acid batteries.
What is a Good Quality Car Battery?
It’s frustrating when the auto battery suddenly dies and you can’t find the jumper cables. As a motorist, it is important to learn more about your car battery, so you will know when to replace it. After all, it will lose strength over time. You should know which car battery is the right choice for your vehicle. Start by reading the owner s manual that contains important details such as battery type, age, and size. You can also ask for the opinion of a local car parts dealer so that you can make an informed decision. To make it easier for you, here are some tips to help you find the best vehicle battery that fits your car and budget.
•Size and specs
Car batteries come in various sizes. Batteries are usually categorized based on length, height and width. Refer to the car manual to find out the exact group and size of your car battery. If you can’t find your manual, you can consult with a professional auto battery service station or car mechanic. The battery should perfectly fit the car’s battery tray to avoid any kind of damage, spill, or loose-fitting.
•Cold Cranking Amps CCA
Cold cranking amps indicates the ability of a battery to start a car engine in cold weather. Batteries with a high CCA rating have greater starting power. You should consider the CCA rating if you reside in a cold climate. Replacing a car battery with one that has a low CCA rating may lead to poor performance.
•Age
Make sure the car battery is new. Look at the date stamp code, which can be found on the cover of the battery. Codes vary. Some manufacturers use digits to indicate years, while others use letters to specify months. Regardless of your option, you should choose the freshest car battery possible. Avoid purchasing a car battery that has been sitting on the shelf longer than 6 months from the manufacture date.
•Reserve capacity
Pay attention to the reserve capacity of the battery because it indicates how long it will last on its own in case the alternator fails. If you want to use a battery that delivers maximum power, you should pick one with maximum reserve capacity because it can run for a long period. It can also recharge faster and deliver more output. High capacity car batteries are expensive, but they are worth it.
•Maintenance
You will find maintenance free and low maintenance batteries. The latter has a cell cap on top that’s used for adding water. Low maintenance batteries are usually preferred by those who live in a warm climate. Maintenance free options such as AGM batteries are fully sealed and don’t need water. These batteries are more expensive than low maintenance ones.
•Warranty
You can’t be completely certain that the battery will work as the manufacturer says they will, so it’s best to choose one with a long replacement period. Most car batteries come with a partial reimbursement period and free replacement period. So if it stops working, you can get a new battery for free. The warranty period differs from one battery to another.
•Storage capacity
Each car has a different power requirement. The storage capacity of car batteries is measured in Ah (Ampere-hour). Batteries with a high Ah have a higher capacity and starting power and longer battery life.
•Position and type of terminals
The position of the battery terminals is important because it affects the car’s polarity. Close contact with the car’s metal shell can cause a short circuit, which can damage the electronic components of your car. That’s why you should which side the battery’s positive terminal is found.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Car Battery
Even if you buy maintenance free car batteries like AGM batteries, there are still some things that you should do to make sure that your battery will function at its peak capacity. Check the cables and car battery terminals frequently to ensure there is no rust building up. Corrosion buildup can prevent your car from starting. If there’s a buildup of corrosion, you should use a wire brush or post cleaner to get rid of it. Don’t forget to apply a layer of protective grease to reduce or prevent future buildup. In case you have a low maintenance battery, you should consider buying a hydrometer so that you can check the cells individually.
You should have your car battery examined by an expert mechanic at least once a year. Although most batteries today don’t need maintenance, it’s still a good idea to have a professional mechanic run tests on the battery load. If you live in a place with cold weather, you can test the battery every four years.
And if the battery starts underperforming regularly or becomes cracked, you should replace it with a new one. Every car battery has a limited lifespan, but proper maintenance and timely servicing can help enhance its battery life. Consider replacing your battery if it is unable to recharge, worn out or damaged.
Car batteries meet their death at the end of their life cycle. The factors that affect a battery’s life cycle include temperature, cycle life, and time. A life cycle of eighteen months to three years is normal for a car battery. Batteries don’t die abruptly upon reaching their maximum cycle life. They start deteriorating faster and need to be recharged often. The cycle life of a battery is between 500 and 1200. It could still have 700 to 1000 cycles until it reaches the end of its lifespan.
If you’re wondering what to do with your old battery, you can turn it up for recycling. A new automotive battery isn't quite cheap. You can get some of your money back by giving it up for recycling. Replacing the car battery is a dangerous procedure, so it’s best to leave the job to the pros. But you can also look for a car supply store in your area that will install the best battery brand for free.
FAQ
Q. Why did my car battery stop working?
A. Car batteries die if they drain lower than their minimum voltage or if they’ve not been used for a long time. Even the best car batteries will eventually wear out, especially if you drive your car every day.
Q. Is it alright to use a cheap battery?
A. Yes, you can. However, it’s better to spend a bit more for a high quality automotive battery. Cheap batteries usually have a shorter lifespan compared to more expensive models and need to be replaced often. Highly rated car batteries usually last between 3 and 5 years. The best batteries can last longer.
Q. When is the best time to replace the car battery?
A. Replace your car battery if it’s 8 years old/older, has low acid or fluid levels or is leaking. It’s also time to buy a new car battery if you need to jumpstart your current one often.
Conclusion
The choice of choosing the best car battery brand and size will still depend on your perception. You can always read car battery reviews to get an idea about the best brand out there. What we have given you is just a guide to narrow down your selection. It’s also a good idea to check your owner s manual, so you can determine the right battery type and brand that can fulfill your vehicle’s electrical needs. Before buying highly rated car batteries, make sure to consider your previous experience with them. A car batter brand that has served you for a long time without any problems is a good option. You can check out these car batteries on Amazon, but do take note that we may get an affiliate commission if you purchase something through our links.
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