The 8 Best Car Batteries

Find and use the best car battery so that your car always has the electrical energy it needs to start up and run optimally.

If you’re reading this, chances are you never gave much thought to your car’s battery until your car didn’t start up properly one day. How about you make a commitment to never again be the hapless victim of a dead battery?

Our review catalog and buying guide highlight the best car batteries on the market and provide useful tips for finding the right one for your vehicle. Here’s a quick rundown of our top picks:

Best Car Battery Reviews

A high-quality car battery isn’t the only device your car needs to operate smoothly. As far as engine performance is concerned, a top-notch oil filter and set of spark plugs are also essential.

The criteria we used to evaluate and select each car battery can be found in the buyer’s guide below.

1. Odyssey PC680 Battery

The Odyssey PC680 Battery is our top pick for several reasons: It’s efficient, well-built, and possibly the best deep cycle car battery out there.

More specifically, this battery is very powerful, efficient, and long-lasting, thanks in large part to its tightly packed pure lead plates that give out twice the power output of regular batteries. It can handle 400 cycles for 80% depth of discharge.

You can also expect stable performance at high voltage for extended periods, a 70 percent longer life cycle than many similarly-specced batteries, and a full recharge a very quick 4 to 6 hours. 

The PC680 has a very rugged construction that allows it to withstand punishment far better than regular batteries, with its leak-preventing absorbed glass mat (AGM) design cushioning against shock and vibration with the utmost effectiveness.

Such a design also enhances its conductivity, anti-corrosion properties, resistance to extreme heat and colds, and ability to recycle gases.

The Odyssey PC680 Battery is so powerful and beefy that it happens to be a popular choice for less conventional, high-performance vehicles such as motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, personal watercraft, and light aircraft. The RV community certainly loves it.

Bottom Line

Incredible power, ruggedness, and lifespan make the Odyssey PC680 battery a popular choice for vehicles of all types and environments, be it land, water, snow, or air. CHECK LATEST PRICE 

2. ACDelco 94RAGM Professional AGM Automotive Battery

The ACDelco 48AGM Professional is a no-hassle car battery that you can safely rely on to provide your car with the power it needs to operate at its best.

Like many of the best auto batteries, it uses AGM technology to deliver incredible results in terms of performance, durability, and longevity. Notable highlights include lengthy cycling, high rechargeability, 80 amp-hours of energy, and an outstanding 800 cold cranking AMPS.

It also utilizes oxygen recombination to minimize water loss, helping maintain performance without the need for maintenance.

ACDelco’s range of Professional Automotive AGM batteries is well-known for their longevity and durability. Their silver calcium grid, in combination with their ability to maintain pressure on the plates to minimize how much active mass the grid loses, makes them extra resistant to corrosion and extreme temperatures.

Such a design also lengthens battery life by delivering low resistance and enhanced conductivity, as well as improving acid circulation and cooling. Engineers pressure-tested and sealed the batteries with vent caps to better absorb shock and prevent leaks.

Unfortunately, some components of the ACDelco 94RAGM Professional AGM Battery (e.g. the posts and terminals) contain lead and other chemicals that can potentially cause cancer, so handle with care. Wash your hands carefully after contacting it. 

Bottom Line

As one of the best car batteries on the market, the leak-proof ACDelco 94RAGM Professional AGM Battery is far superior to your typical car battery in everything from performance to longevity. CHECK LATEST PRICE

3. Optima Batteries 8004-003 34/78 RedTop Starting Battery

Considered the best car battery by many mechanics and car owners, the Optima 34/78 RedTop is built for extreme driving conditions and can often be found under the hood of off-road vehicles and hot rods.

This innovative battery has a spiral cell design that delivers the most energetic 5-second starting burst of any car battery, even in bad weather, which isn’t surprising considering the impressive 800 Cold Cranking Amps it has on tap.

In fact, it can consistently withstand hard launches, sudden and extreme cornering, and prolonged racing. 

With regards to performance and longevity, Optima says the 34/78 RedTop can withstand vibrations 15 times better than more traditional batteries, which greatly improves its lifespan. Moreover, the fact that it’s completely leak-proof allows you to mount it in any position you want.

And for those who hate the idea of having to maintain a car battery, take comfort in knowing that this impressive unit is maintenance-free.

Bottom Line

The Optima Batteries 4/78 RedTop Starting Battery is currently one of the most popular car batteries on the market due in large part to its incredible performance in both good and harsh conditions. CHECK LATEST PRICE

4. ACDelco 48AGM Professional AGM Automotive Battery

Yet another ACDelco car battery on our list, this time the 48AGM Professional AGM Automotive Battery.

Like the 94RAGM Professional, this battery ensures that your car starts up every time you turn on the ignition. And AGM technology makes it highly receptive to charge and grants it lengthy cycling capabilities.

A well-thought-out design holds the electrolyte permanently within the glass mat separator to prevent leaks and spills. It also uses oxygen recombination to minimize water loss and deliver maintenance-free performance. 

In terms of longevity, the 48AGM Professional far exceeds traditional lead-acid batteries thanks to its ability to maintain constant pressure in each plate to significantly reduce the loss of active mass from the grid. It also comes with a 36-month free replacement plan.

One concern, however, is the presence of lead and other harmful chemicals in the battery posts, terminals, and other components, substances that can potentially cause cancer and other health issues. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling this battery.

Bottom Line

When reliable starting power and long battery life are a priority, you can’t go wrong with a quality ACDelco battery such as the 48AGM Professional AGM Automotive Battery. CHECK LATEST PRICE

5. Kinetik HC600 BLU Series 600-Watt AGM Car Audio Battery

The Kinetik HC600 BLU Series is an AGM car battery that places a strong focus on sound performance. With 600-watts and 800 cranking amps, it works wonders for most car engines and audio systems, from the low to high-end.

In fact, this small and unassuming battery packs one of the most powerful, durable, and compact audio power cells of any battery currently on the market. It can handle extremely demanding amplifiers on a consistent and much longer basis than regular batteries can.

But make no mistake, the Kinetik HC600 BLU Series isn’t a one-trick pony. In addition to its amazing sound-enhancing capabilities, it has a solid, maintenance-free build that provides your car’s engine and other electronic components with all the energy they need.

A sealed, ABS plastic-reinforced Absorbed Glass Mat design prevents leaks, easily withstands vibrations and extreme heat, and keeps discharge to a minimum.

Bottom Line

If you have a powerful car with a powerful sound system, the Kinetik HC600 BLU Series 600-Watt AGM Car Audio Battery should be on your shopping list. CHECK LATEST PRICE

6. Mighty Max ML35-12 Car Battery

The Mighty Max Battery ML35-12 is possibly the best car battery for anyone on a tight budget. This affordably-priced, sealed lead-acid battery uses AGM technology to deliver maintenance-free power whenever you need it.

Its heavy-duty, highly effective calcium-alloy grid delivers exceptional performance and solid lifetime value for float and cyclic activity, while a valve-regulated design ensures no leakage or need for maintenance and allows the battery to be mounted in any position.

The Mighty Max ML35-12 is very versatile, can be easily discharged and recharged, and works just as well in cold conditions as it does in hot ones. Not only is it suited for ICE vehicles, but you can also use it for EVs, motorcycles, golf carts, boats, garden tools, and even robotic machines.

Great performance and a long service life mean you can’t go wrong with this battery. But should you be dissatisfied with it for whatever reason, there is a one-year warranty and a 30-day refund plan you can rest on.

Bottom Line

If you need an all-around battery that works on just about anything that uses battery power, the Mighty Max ML35-12 Battery is a great pick. CHECK LATEST PRICE

7. XS Power D1200 XS Series AGM Battery

The XS Power D1200 AGM battery is a reliable, powerful, and reasonably-priced unit designed to power small to medium-sized systems.

As a 12-volt, 2,600 amp battery, it is powerful enough to ensure quick starts whenever and wherever you need it. It has a sealed, leak-proof design that’s safe for your vehicle and an ABS-reinforced plastic casing that allows it to absorb vibrations and withstand extreme temperatures.

A very compact size allows this battery to be mountable in almost any position. However, you may have to make some modifications to the terminals to achieve a proper fit in some applications.

You will also need to buy the battery posts separately, seeing as the XS Power D1200 doesn’t come with them.

Bottom Line

The XS Power D1200 XS Series AGM Battery is a well-built, highly versatile unit that consistently delivers good all-around performance. CHECK LATEST PRICE

8. DieHard Advanced Gold AGM Battery

The DieHard Advanced Gold AGM Battery makes excellent use of AGM technology to deliver great performance and longevity. It is well-suited for small and big cars and trucks, as well as less conventional vehicles such as tractors and boats.

DieHard gold batteries are particularly ideal for vehicles that undergo intense vibrations regularly. They feature enhanced electrolyte suspension systems that absorb more electrolytes and better protect internal components than the average car battery, as well as power-optimized full-frame negative and positive plates that help prevent electrical shorts.

These design features also allow the battery to withstand extreme temperatures without breaking a sweat. It is spill- and leak-proof, maintenance-free, mountable in just about any position, and has an incredible 850 CCA rating.

DieHard claims 20 times better vibration protection and two-times longer cycle life than conventional lead-acid batteries.

Bottom Line

The DieHard Advanced Gold AGM Battery is simply one of the best gold batteries on the market, offering great longevity and all-around performance for your hard-working car or truck. CHECK LATEST PRICE

Car Battery Buying Guide And Tips

This buying guide provides useful information and practical tips for finding the best car battery for your car, SUV, or truck.

What Is A Car Battery?

It’s the car battery that supplies the electrical components of your vehicles with electricity. Its primary function is to energize the engine’s starter, which in turn brings your car to  life.

This rechargeable, box-shaped power unit continues to supply the car’s electrical systems even after getting the engine to run, utilizing an alternator to deliver charging as demand for electricity increases or decreases.

Every electric accessory in a car such as the air conditioning, stereo system, windshield wipers, halogen or LED headlights, and USB chargers is powered by the battery. See how important it is?

How Does A Car Battery Work?

When you turn on the ignition, the car battery receives a signal that prompts it to convert chemical energy into electrical energy. This energy is then channeled to the starter, which kick starts the engine.

Benefits Of A Good Car Battery

You should realize by now that a top-quality car battery is essential to the smooth and reliable operation of your engine. Let’s drive the message home (pun intended) by clarifying the key benefits of a good car battery:

1. Start your car reliably. All car batteries are designed to provide the jolt of energy needed to start your car and run its electrical components, but not all of them perform that job well. A good battery ensures that your car always has enough electrical energy to operate at its best. 

2. Long battery life. Cheap car batteries degrade quickly and have poor battery life. By comparison, the best batteries have a better build quality and may last twice as long, thus sparing you the trouble (time, money, etc.) of having to replace them frequently.

3. Provide peace of mind. The last thing anyone wants is to be on their way somewhere only to have their car not start or come to a complete stop because of a dead car battery. Having a top-rated, highly durable and reliable battery addresses much of this problem.

4. Increased longevity. Although all car batteries gradually deteriorate over time, some last longer than others. The best car batteries are made from quality materials that allow them to withstand wear and tear far better than cheap batteries.

Types Of Car Batteries

There are three main types of car batteries: lead-acid, absorbed glass mat (AGM), and lithium-Ion.

Lead-Acid Car Batteries

Back in the days, car owners needed to top off the water in a car battery’s electrolyte solution. Fortunately, technological advancements have turned these old-school lead-acid batteries into maintenance-free ones that no longer require you to top off the fluid.

Lead-acid car batteries are far more affordable than absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries but less capable of holding a long charge and less tolerant of deep discharge.

Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries

AGM car batteries can handle repeated draining and recharging cycles better than conventional batteries. Due to modern cars requiring more power for their various advanced safety and convenience features, an increasing number of new vehicles now come with this type of car battery.

Because of their high performance, AGM batteries are a lot more expensive than traditional batteries, with some costing up to twice as much. They are ideal for owners who don’t use their car or truck for long periods of time, and the battery loses its charge.

Lithium-Ion Car Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are fairly new in the world of car batteries. Generally used by hybrid and electric vehicles, they are much more compact in size and lighter in weight than lead-acid batteries yet hold considerably more energy.

Car Battery Sizes

Auto batteries come in many different sizes. Not only must you make sure to pick the right-sized battery for your car, but you must also ensure that the terminals are correctly positioned. 

Check your owner’s manual or ask your mechanic when you’re not sure. The following are the different car battery sizes and their corresponding vehicle makes.

• Size 24/24F: Fits many Honda, Acura, Nissan, Infiniti, Toyota, and Lexus vehicles.
• Size 34/78: Many large Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles, as well as many 1996 to 2000 General Motors pickup trucks, SUVs, and midsize and large sedans.
• Size 35: Most Japanese makes and models, including most Toyota, Nissan, Subaru vehicles, and many recent Hondas.
• Size 47 (H5): Many Chevrolet, Buick, Volkswagen, and Fiat models.
• Size 48 (H6): Many American and European models, including those from Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac, Jeep, Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Volvo, and Mini.
• Size 49 (H8): Many European and Asian vehicles from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Hyundai.
• Size 51R: Many Japanese models from Honda, Nissan, and Mazda.
• Size 65: Large cars, trucks, and SUVs from Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln.
• Size 75: Some midsize and compact cars from GM, as well as a few Chrysler vehicles.

Top Car Battery Brands

Most of the best-known aftermarket car batteries in North America are sold under the following brands:

AC Delco

Founded in 1916, General Motors-owned ACDelco offers various automotive parts for the millions of GM vehicles produced each year. The highly-regarded ACDelco Professional AGM Automotive Battery is one of its best-sellers.

Optima

Optima was founded in 1972 and is credited with introducing the first maintenance-free lead-acid batteries for commercial and military use, as well as the first high‐performance AGM automotive batteries. The Optima RedTop is one of this innovative company’s most popular car batteries.

DieHard

Introduced in 1963 by Advance Auto Parts and marketed by Sears Holdings, DieHard offers a line of premium automotive batteries that live up to its cool-sounding name justice. The DieHard Advanced Gold AGM Battery is one of the brand’s most popular models. Find DieHard Car Batteries.

Odyssey 

Odyssey is a car battery brand that sources its batteries from EnerSys Energy Products Inc. These batteries are manufactured to strict quality standards in the U.S. and Europe, and one in particular — the Odyssey PC680 Battery — is widely regarded as one of the best auto batteries.

How To Choose The Best Car Battery

If you’re like most car owners, you’ll have to replace your car battery at least once. Choose wisely, and you’ll be certain to end up with a battery that lasts long and performs well. 

Consider the following criteria when looking for the best battery for your car:

1. Battery Life

Car battery life is affected by a number of factors, ranging from the temperature outside to how you drive. Both high and low temperatures, as well as frequent short drives, are especially hard on the battery.

If you live in a very hot or cold climate or make many short trips that don’t give your battery much time to recharge, consider going with an AGM car battery instead of a conventional lead-acid. The former is far more durable and capable of withstanding stress.

2. Manufacture Date

Car batteries lose their strength over time when they’re not used, so the newer the battery, the longer it will last. You should avoid getting a unit that’s older than six months from the date it was manufactured.

How can you tell the age of a car battery? Manufacturers engrave date codes onto the cover to indicate when the battery was manufactured. Not all of them use the same type of codes, so it’s important to have an idea of what you’re looking for.

3. Battery Size

Like many automotive parts, car batteries are not a one-size-fits-all product. Make sure the one you select properly fits your car by considering the battery type, the positioning of the terminals, and, of course, the battery’s actual physical size.

Check your owner’s manual or consult a mechanic if you’re not sure about which battery to get.

4. Technical Specifications

Size isn’t the only specification that determines whether or not a battery is right for you. Other factors to consider include the cold cranking amps (CCA), amp-hour (Ah), and reserve capacity. 

CCA refers to the number of amps a 12-volt battery can produce when the temperature drops to zero degrees Fahrenheit (-18 Celsius). It is a particularly important consideration if you live in a cold environment. 

5. Ease Of Use

Car batteries can be heavy, weighing anywhere from 25 to 60 pounds (11 – 27 kg). This heft makes lifting and carrying them difficult.

Make your life easier by going with a battery that has a plastic handle or loop. Such a novelty makes the process of installation, removal, and storage easier.

6. Warranty 

Manufacturers normally offer a free replacement period and prorated period. The former can grant you full reimbursement should anything happen to the battery, while the latter gives you partial reimbursement. 

Opt for the longest free replacement period available so that you have the utmost coverage should anything happen to the battery. But note that neglecting the battery in any way, such as dropping or improperly installing it, can void the warranty.

Taking Care Of Your Car Battery

The best car battery won’t last long if neglected, so it’s important that you properly maintain your car’s battery unit so that you don’t find yourself stranded or incurring an expensive service or tow charge.

8 Signs You Need A New Car Battery

The most important part of maintaining your car battery is keeping a pulse on its performance so that you’re not blindsided by any surprises. The following are the most common signs of a dying, dead, or faulty car battery:

1. Slow or intermittent starts. When the battery becomes faulty or less effective due to its components degrading over time, it takes longer to generate energy for the starter. Sometimes, the engine starts fine one moment and then doesn’t start the next.

2. Engine cranks but doesn’t start. The engine may even not start after it turns over. Although several different factors can cause this problem (e.g. defective starter), the battery is usually the main culprit.

3. Dim or no lights. The battery is responsible for powering all of your car’s electronic components, including the lighting, radio, and infotainment system. It won’t be able to fulfill that role if it’s dead or running low on energy.

4. Check engine light is on. While the check engine light isn’t always an indication that something is particularly wrong with your battery, the warning may turn on if it indeed has an issue. Get your battery tested to see if it’s working properly or needs to be replaced. 

5. Bad smell under the hood. Damaged or short-circuited batteries sometimes leak gas, producing a putrid, rotten egg smell. The presence of such a smell when you open the hood could indicate a leaking battery that needs to be checked ASAP and possibly even replaced.

6. Corroded connectors. Corroded battery terminals can lead to voltage issues that make it difficult to start your vehicle or any of its electronics. You have a corrosion problem if there is a build-up of a white, ashy substance on your battery’s metal parts. 

7. Frequent jump-starts. If your vehicle requires a jump-start three or more times per week, you’ve got a battery problem. Jumping your battery repeatedly will quickly shorten its life, even if it’s a brand new unit. It also puts a lot of strain on other parts of your car.

8. Battery is old. Car batteries typically last 3 to 5 years in ideal weather and usage conditions. Not only are old batteries generally ineffective at providing your car with a reliable source of energy, but they also pose a safety risk. You would be wise to have your battery tested regularly as it nears the 3-year mark.

How To Change A Car Battery

So, after jump-starting your car multiple times, you’ve determined that you need a new battery. What now?

Changing a car battery is a fairly straightforward process that most people can do themselves. All you have to do is follow this simple step-by-step process:

Step 1. Turn off the engine, raise the hood, and locate the battery. Use a combination wrench, battery pliers, or a battery wrench to loosen the nut that secures the negative (black) cable to the battery, and then detach the cable.

Note: Removing the cable requires twisting and pulling it up. If it doesn’t come off easily, consider purchasing a battery terminal puller to avoid causing any damage.

Step 2. Following the process established in step 1, detach the positive (red) battery cable from the battery.

Step 3. Remove the battery hold-down clamp using a combination wrench or a socket and ratchet. With both hands (most car  batteries are heavy), lift the battery from its try. If it has a handle, make your life easier by using that instead.

Step 4. Clean any corrosion you find on the battery using a battery-cleaning solution or a mixture of baking soda and water. While you’re at it, clean the cable connectors with a wire brush and the cleaning solution.

Step 5. Place the new battery in the battery hold-down tray and secure it with the hold-down clamp. The positive post should match the positive terminal, so make sure they match.

Step 6. Remove the caps covering the posts, and spray each terminal end with an anti-corrosion solution.

Step 7. Attach and tighten the positive battery cable (Red) and the negative battery cable (Black). Make sure to attach the former first. 

Step 8. To ensure that everything is securely installed and connected, wiggle the battery back and forth to test for looseness. Your car might not start and you risk damaging the battery if any of its components are poorly connected.

Car Battery Maintenance Tips

Most car batteries on the market are maintenance-free, meaning you don’t have to add water to their electrolyte solution. However, no matter the battery type, you have to take good care of it to ensure its optimal performance and lifespan.

Applying the following best practices will extend the life of your car battery:

1. Limit short rides. Quick, short trips don’t give your car’s battery enough time to fully charge, while long periods between drives could lead to it being fully discharged. To maintain battery power, drive your car frequently and for extended periods helps.

2. Tightly fasten the battery. Vibrations in the engine compartment can damage the battery and cause it to short circuit, so make sure it is securely installed in the mounting bracket, and inspect the battery terminal routinely to ensure it is positioned properly and tightly.

3. Remove any corrosion. Battery terminals eventually corrode, but cleaning them to prevent buildup will extend the battery’s life. You can remove corrosion by scrubbing the terminals with a toothbrush dipped in a baking soda/water solution, rinsing the solution off with cold water via a spray bottle, and thoroughly drying with a clean cloth.

4. Test the battery often. Keeping track of your battery’s condition or health allows you to be more proactive in maximizing its life. Use a car battery tester to test the battery’s  output voltage level to determine whether or not it is performing optimally and if you need a replacement.

5. Turn off electronics when idling. Consider turning off electronic functions such as the radio and air conditioner when the engine isn’t running. Doing so will put less strain on your battery power.

6. Turn off lights before existing. Accidentally leaving your headlights or interior lights on is one of the most common causes of a dead battery. Keep yourself from forgetting by placing a reminder (note, sticker, etc.) on your car remote or parking in a direction that forces you to walk past your headlights.

7. Don’t treat your car as a power source. The more things you plug into your car (tablet, phone charger, etc.), the faster your battery dies. Charge all devices beforehand so that you don’t have to depend on your car for power.

8. Take care of your whole car. As important as an auto battery is, it’s only one part of your entire vehicle. Caring for your whole car, such as taking it in for routine checkups, ensures the increased lifespan of all its components, including the battery.

Common Car Battery Myths

Like all things in life worth discussing, car batteries have their fair share of myths. These myths are very pervasive and believing them can cause your vehicle some serious damage.

Don’t follow bad advice. Here are some of the most common car battery myths debunked:

Maintenance Free Batteries Don’t Require Maintenance

While it’s true that maintenance-free car batteries don’t require you to maintain or replenish fluid or electrolyte levels, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take care of your battery.

Even the best car battery, regardless of whether it’s maintenance-free or low-maintenance, requires regular servicing to “maintain” optimal performance and longevity. Routinely check for loose terminals and connections, as well as other signs of damage.

Driving My Car Will Fully Recharge The Battery

If your battery is completely discharged, driving around might recharge it somewhat but doing so won’t recharge it fully. That’s because alternators aren’t particularly designed to transfer large amounts of power to a battery quickly.

When faced with a significantly discharged battery, using an external charger is a safer, cheaper (you don’t waste gas), and more effective option.

Disconnecting The Battery When The Car Is Not Used Is A Good Idea

If you’re going on a vacation and don’t plan on using your car for an extended period, disconnecting the battery to preserve its charge is a bad idea. 

Modern computer and electronic control systems in today’s car are sensitive and don’t like being deprived of power for extended durations, even when not used. A better idea than disconnecting the battery is to use a quality maintenance charger.

Batteries Last Longer In Hot Climates

People assume that because cold weather shortens battery life, a battery will last longer in hotter weather. Not true!

On the contrary, hot climates kill car batteries faster. Heat accelerates the rate of water loss, distortion, and corrosion. 

Car Battery FAQs And Answers

The answers to these frequently asked questions encapsulate many of the facts and tips presented in this guide. They will help address any other queries you might have about finding the best car batteries.

How Long Does A Car Battery Last?

The average car battery lasts anywhere from 3 to 5 years, but some high-quality units can last longer if properly maintained. 

Heat and extreme cold accelerate the rate of battery degradation, explaining why battery life is longer in areas with a moderate climate.

Why Does A Car Battery Stop Working?

No battery is impervious to degradation, meaning even the best auto battery is destined to wear out and die over time, both by natural and unnatural causes.

Warm and cold weather; frequent short trips or long periods between drives; corrosion at the connections; human error such as accidentally leaving the lights on; a faulty alternator, a broken fuse, and other damaged components all contribute to a battery’s death.

When Should I Replace My Car Battery?

Manufacturers and mechanics generally recommend that you replace your car battery every three years. Batteries generally lose most of their effectiveness after four or five years, potentially becoming a safety hazard.

Is It OK To Use A Cheap Car Battery?

While you can certainly use a cheap car battery, it’s better to pay a little extra money for a higher quality unit. Cheap batteries are typically made from poorer materials, have a shorter lifespan, and need to be replaced more frequently.

How Do I Know If My Battery Is Dying? 

Common symptoms of a dead or dying car battery include an engine that cranks slowly, cranks but doesn’t start, struggles to crank in cold conditions, and starts fine one day but doesn’t start at all the next.

A battery that’s older than seven years, leaks, smells bad, has low fluid and acid levels, and needs to be jump-started frequently are other signs that a replacement is long overdue.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be like everyone else. Don’t wait until your car doesn’t start before giving your battery the attention it deserves.

Not only is it important to use the best battery for your car, but you must also maintain it regularly to ensure its optimal performance and longevity.

The Odyssey PC680 Battery is our choice for the best car battery due to its high recharge rate, great cranking power, durable design, though the ACDelco 94RAGM and Optima 34/78 RedTop batteries are excellent units, as well. If you have a tight budget, consider the Mighty Max Battery ML35-12.