Aug 1, 2019
All cars have a battery which acts as a storage device for the electrical power needed to start and run your car. If you are not able to start your car or the battery is not recharging as you drive, then you may need a replacement. But, the big question is, how do I choose the right battery for my car? What do I need to look for?
Follow these steps which will help you find the best car battery:
Car batteries are sorted by group size, which indicates the measurements as well as the orientation of the battery terminals/posts. But where can you find it? If your car battery has not been replaced, then the group size number can be found on it’s label (either on the top or side of the case). You can also check your owner’s manual in the specification section, or simply look online.
Vehicles need a certain amount of amperage to start, especially in those freezing cold months, we experience in the UK. If your battery doesn’t have enough amperage for the cold weather, it’s not going to start. Again, this is located on your battery’s label, in the owner’s manual or online. The minimum cold cranking amperage can be exceeded, however never go below the recommended rating!
Most car batteries are known as a conventional lead-acid battery. The cells inside are made of negative and positive lead plates in battery acid in a case. These battery types have been around a long time as they are reliable and least expensive type.
Enhanced flooded batteries (EFB) are one step up from the common lead-acid design. These batteries are sturdier and give DOUBLE the cyclical stability of the standard battery. Commonly used along with stop-start technology. These batteries are more expensive but expect it to last longer than average.
Absorbent glass matt batteries (AGM) are the highest quality batteries available. Made to withstand the most aggressive on and off-road use you can imagine. With high demand electrical components like DVD players, they can recover from the most severe battery discharges. These batteries are the most expensive on the market and are found in high-performance, luxury cars.
All you need to do now is to pick a recognised battery manufacturer. Even if the quality of the battery may or may not be any better, choosing a recognised brand name will have better customer support in the long run! Make sure you pick a grade that is right for you, if you aren’t planning on changing your vehicle anytime soon, select a battery that is designed to last longer. If you’re getting ready to sell or trade-in your car, the minimum battery-grade will get you by until then.
If this all sounds a bit much, don’t worry. Here at MyCarNeedsA.com, we can help with that! You can enter your reg number and we will provide quotes from our local mechanics who will be willing to do all this hard work for you!
