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7 Best Car Batteries [Buying Guide]

Get Reliable Starts And Top Performance With The Best Car Batteries On The Market

Best Overall Choice
best car batteries

Optima Batteries RedTop Starting Battery

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Best Budget Choice
best car batteries

ACDelco ACDB24R Car Battery

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Best Premium Choice
best car batteries

Odyssey Extreme Series Car Battery

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Best Car Batteries

If you drive your car until it literally cannot go another mile, you’ll likely wind up replacing the battery of your prized vehicle a few times. That’s why we’ve found the best car batteries, so that you can know exactly what you want before your car battery dies. The best car batteries will be reliable and have the appropriate cold-cranking amps (CCA) and reserve capacity to properly power your vehicle.

Types Of Car Batteries

When deciding which car battery to get, be certain that the battery will fit the specifications of your car. You’ll need to pay close attention to the terminal orientation, size, and shape. If you are unsure of what size and type of battery your vehicle requires, check your owner’s manual.

In addition, it is important to know the different types of car batteries. The two most commonly used types of car batteries that we will focus on are absorbed glass mat batteries and lead-acid batteries.

Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries can be drained and recharged more times and are used more frequently in newer vehicles. Because of their longevity, they’re often used in high-performance vehicles with a lot of electrical demands.

Lead-acid batteries are the most common and affordable type of car battery. Also known as flooded batteries, they also tend to be the most low-maintenance battery option, although they are not able to be drained and recharged as many times.

Key Features To Look For In The Best Car Batteries

First, you must make certain that you get a car battery that is the correct size for your car. The terminal locations will also need to match up to fit properly. To determine the correct size, check your owner’s manual. Then, double-check with the specifications of the battery that you want to purchase.

You’ll also want to pay attention to the battery’s weight and whether the battery has a handle. Especially if the battery is very heavy, you’ll want it to have a durable handle so you can easily and properly install and uninstall the battery when needed. You also must pay attention to the key technical specifications. The main specs to look for include reserve capacity, cold-cranking amps (CCA), and amp-hours.

Next, consider both the manufacturer date and the warranty. For the best battery life, you will want the newest possible battery. If the manufacturer date is unclear in the product description, you should be able to determine when it was manufactured based on the code on the battery. If you have trouble finding the code, look at the manufacturer’s website to determine where they place it on the battery.

Typically, batteries have around a three-year warranty. If for any reason you accidentally damage the battery, for example by dropping it or improperly installing it, the warranty may not cover the damage. Pay attention to what kind of warranty comes from the company.

Our Recommendations For The 7 Best Car Batteries

Here at AutoWise, we’ve scoured the web to find you the best car batteries out there. Regardless of the state of your current battery, it’s important to be informed about replacement options well in advance of experiencing a dead battery. Along with the buying guide, we’ve answered your most frequently asked questions surrounding finding the best possible replacement car battery for your vehicle.

Best Overall Choice

1. Optima Batteries RedTop Starting Battery

best car batteries

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The Optima RedTop Starting Battery is top-notch in every way you’d want from one of the very best car batteries. This 12-volt, lead-acid car battery has a strong starting burst with 800 cold-cranking amps (CCA) and 200 amp-load. The battery is reliable and durable, with RedTop claiming it is fifteen times more vibration-resistant than the average car battery.

Thanks to its durable design, this car battery requires no maintenance. Plus, it has fast recharging with a long lifespan because of the high reserve capacity. It is also designed to handle the elements, so if you frequently experience subzero temperatures, this battery will take you where you need to go.

This RedTop battery is compact, weighing just under forty pounds with a flexible mounting design that allows it to fit numerous car configurations. Be certain to check the specifications for your vehicle prior to purchasing this battery. For all that you need to know about the performance of the Optima RedTop, read our review when we tested this battery for 5,000 miles in subzero temperatures.

Best Budget Choice

2. ACDelco ACDB24R Car Battery

best car batteries

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This 12V car battery from ACDelco is an excellent-quality AGM Group 51 battery. Group 51 batteries are one of the most popular group sizes for the best car batteries and should fit a wide variety of makes and models.

Prior to installation, ACDelco urges users to refer to the battery’s owner’s manual for proper care and installation. This 31.5-pound batter is corrosion-resistant and has a durable design to protect it from road vibration.

The battery features a plastic handle that makes installation and removal a breeze. And reviewers comment that it comes well-packaged on delivery. Be sure to check the product dimensions with your vehicle’s battery dimensions before purchasing.

3. XS Power D3400 Car Battery

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Coming from XS Power, this 48-pound, 12V, AGM car battery is one of the best car batteries out there. It is spill-proof, vibration-resistant, and valve regulated. You can mount this battery in just about any position, for added flexibility if you decide you want to change things up from the standard OE battery mount. This battery boasts a high output of 3,300 max amps and 1,000 cranking amps.

Because it comes with M6 terminal bolts, installation is rather easy. With that being said, it does not come with battery posts which you will need to buy separately. Reviewers have expressed how well this battery operates even at freezing temperatures or with large electrical loads. Even with high-performance speakers or accessory lights, this battery should remain at full capacity.

Best Premium Choice

4. Odyssey Extreme Series Car Battery

best car batteries

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The more modern a car is, the more electricity it requires to keep up with all the new technologies. This absorbed glass mat (AGM) Odyssey battery is willing to put in the work to keep up. This 12v car battery is extreme in all the right ways. With 990 CCA and a 145-minute reserve capacity, this lead-acid car battery is a safe bet when upgrading your car battery.

The battery is made with lead plates, making it highly durable and powerful. Right out of the box, you can expect a 95% charge. It is corrosion-resistant and has a self-regulating relief valve.

While Odyssey claims that it has a universal fit, it’s important to check the product dimensions to make sure this battery will fit in your car.  It’s important to note that some reviewers have expressed difficulty when trying to claim Odyssey’s 4-year warranty through Amazon.

5. ACDelco 94RAGM Car Battery

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When it comes to car batteries, there is always the potential for battery acid leakage. With that, the ACDelco 94RAGM car battery features a unique vent-cap design to help prevent any kind of acid leakage. It is designed with a robust, puncture-resistant back for improved battery life. Weighing in at 52 pounds, the battery has 880 CCA and a 140-minute reserve-capacity.

The two plastic handles on the top of the battery allow for easy maneuvering on install. This battery is great for any vehicle that will often need to start in cold temperatures. Along with that, the battery is able to fit in most cars. As always, be certain to take the necessary measurements to ensure it fits your vehicle prior to purchasing. ACDelco includes a 3-year/unlimited mile limited warranty with each battery.

6. Optima Batteries YellowTop Dual-Purpose Battery

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Coming in at 37-pounds, this slightly more lightweight Optima YellowTop 12v battery has 620 CCAs and a 98-minute reserve capacity at 25 amps. It has dual SAE and GM terminals. If you have a car with electrically-demanding add-ons such as a high-performance stereo system, running lights, or hydraulics, this battery is an excellent option for you. Additionally, this battery is recommended for vehicles without alternators.

Because of the low self-discharge rate, this battery remains optimal through all seasons. It will easily get you through the winter. Amazon offers a 3-year warranty for this battery. Some reviewers mention that this battery will need to be charged upon arrival prior to inserting it into your vehicle.

7. Delphi MaxStart AGM Car Battery

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The Delphi MaxStart car battery is an AGM battery with 750 CCA and a 150-minute reserve capacity. The fit-type for this 58-pound battery is vehicle-specific. With that, be sure to check with Delphi to see if your car can fit this 1V, Group 65 battery.

The design of this up-to-date battery can handle the high electrical demands of newer cars. With 20 times the vibration resistance of other competing batteries, this durable battery is able to withstand wear and tear. Along with that, the battery features fortified welds, straps, and posts.



One Of The Best Car Batteries Will Keep Your Car Running At Its Best

No one wants to be stranded because of a dead car battery. Whether you’ve come to this guide to replace an already dead battery or you are prepping for when the time inevitably comes, we hope that you can find the perfect battery from our list of the best car batteries to fit your specific needs.

 

 



Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best car battery charger?

Our recommendation for the best car battery charger is the Noco Genuis10. Keep this convenient battery charger in your car at all times to revive your battery whenever needed. To read more about car battery chargers, check out our extensive buying guide ranking the best car battery chargers.

What is the reserve capacity on a car battery?

The reserve capacity is how long a fully charged battery can continue to operate without the vehicle’s alternator recharging the battery. This allotted time is listed as the reserve capacity. Batteries with a higher reserve capacity will keep the battery alive longer if, for instance, if you accidentally leave your car lights on.

What does CCA stand for?

CCA is an acronym for cold-cranking amps. CCA measures how many amps a battery is able to successfully produce within 30 seconds at 0-degrees Fahrenheit.

The more CCA, the better the car battery will perform at arctic temperatures. When it’s cold, a car battery with a larger CCA will start more easily.

Does cold weather affect your car battery?

Yes, the cold weather does affect your car battery. The chemical reaction in a car’s battery is sped up in high temperatures and slowed down in colder temperatures. This means your car’s battery will die more easily in the cold. Once it hits subzero temperatures, your battery will need more energy to get started.

To keep your car’s battery as protected as possible during cold weather, park your car in a garage if possible. Along with that, keep your battery clean, especially the battery terminals. When purchasing a car battery, look for batteries with a higher CCA. The higher the CCA, the better the battery will perform in below-freezing temperatures.

How do you remove a car battery?

For all the information you need, check out our comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to properly and safely remove a car battery. The basic steps are:

Step 1: Gather Tools And Set Up Work Space

Step 2: Remove The Battery Cables, Connectors, And/Or Fasteners

Step 3: Lift The Battery Out Of The Car And Set It In A Safe Spot

Step 4: Clean The Battery Tray And Connections

Step 5: Place and Secure New Car Battery

Step 6: Test Your New Battery

How do you clean car battery terminals?

Corrosion can eventually kill a car’s battery. With that, knowing how to clean your car’s battery terminals is a must to keep your battery in good working order. For more information on the steps below, be sure to check out our comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to clean car battery terminals.

Step 1: Look For Signs Of Corrosion

Step 2: Gather Supplies

Step 3: Locate Your Car Battery

Step 4: Disconnect The Battery Terminal

Step 5: Clean The Battery Terminals And Battery Posts

Step 6: Reconnect The Battery Terminals

How often should you change your car battery?

As a general rule-of-thumb, it is recommended to change your car battery once every 3 to 5 years. The longevity of your battery depends on many factors. Your battery may last for more or less time than the recommended lifespan.

How can you tell when a car battery needs replacing?

If your car takes multiple attempts to get started or if it’s just being sluggish in general, it might be time to replace the car battery. Along with that, if you notice a bad odor or a battery leak, you should get your battery checked.

Sometimes, your check engine light will go on when it is time to replace your battery.

What should I do with my old car battery?

Whatever you do, don’t just throw them away in your household trash can. It can be very damaging to the environment, and there is an easy solution!

Especially with lead-acid car batteries, it is very important to properly dispose of the old batteries. Most auto-parts stores will take your old battery and properly dispose of it. Research your local recycling center, as sometimes they will also take old batteries.

Regardless of if you bring your battery to an auto shop or a recycling center, once you remove your battery, place it in a plastic bag and keep the battery upright.

What is the best car jump starter?

If you ever need to jumpstart your car, we recommend keeping the NOCO Boost Plus GB401 in your car at all times.





Joybeth Sullivan
About Joybeth Sullivan

Joybeth Sullivan is an accomplished content creator. She does it all as a writer, photographer, and videographer. Her work has been published in local and international outlets. She graduated from the University of Georgia in May of 2020 with a dual-degree in English & Film. Today, she is based out of Denver, CO. When she isn't writing, you can find her on long drives in the mountains with her husky, Newman, riding shotgun.

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