The Best Car Batteries
You know as well as we do that battery is what keeps you vehicle operative.
It is an essential part of your car, so pick a new battery will require some research.
The majority of the car batteries are designed to work for several years.
However, more expensive batteries have prolonged lifespan and high-performance.
When choosing a battery, make sure that it is compatible with your car and that it has a long warranty period.
Check our list of top ten car batteries and bookmark it, to know what to buy when the car needs it.
Highest Rated Car Batteries (by Customer Reviews)
- 1Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Battery
- 2Kinetik HC800-REV 800 Watt 12V Car Battery/Power Cell
- 3Odyssey PC925 Automotive and LTV Battery
- 4Odyssey PC680 Battery
- 5Optima Batteries 8040-218 D35 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
- 6ACDelco 94RAGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 94R Battery
- 7Optima Batteries 8012-021 D34 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
- 8Optima Batteries 8014-045 D34/78 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
- 9Optima Batteries 8002-002 34 RedTop Starting Battery
- 10Optima Batteries 8016-103 D34M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery
1
Optima Batteries 8052-161 D31M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Battery
This battery from Optima works in recreational cars and is designed to work even in bad weather conditions.
This unit is vibration-resistant and 900 cold-cranking amps.
The unit provides three times more recharging than similar batteries.
It is suitable for boats or RV battery.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Vibration-resistant
- Powerful
Cons
- Expensive
Jake's TakeThis battery can withstand long periods of no charging at all.
It works great in all weather conditions, but it is a bit expensive.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
2
Kinetik HC800-REV 800 Watt 12V Car Battery/Power Cell
This Kinetik battery is a budget-friendly option.
It has a system power of 800 watts and 750 cranking amps.
The battery is smaller in size but provides high performance.
It is suitable for smaller vehicles.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Can be used for sound extras
Cons
- Moderate power
Jake's TakeThis battery comes at a reasonable price, but it is a nice quality.
It recharges excellent and lasts long.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
3
Odyssey PC925 Automotive and LTV Battery
This Odyssey battery features 3-10 years of high-performance service life.
It has a more extended cycle life and high stable voltage.
The recharge time is four to six hours for a fully-charged battery.
The battery has a non-spillable design.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Limited 3 and 4-year full replacement warranty
- Fast recharging
Cons
- Battery life decreases over the years
Jake's TakeThe fast recharging time makes this battery reliable and useful.
The warranty period is long, which is always positive when buying expensive items.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
4
Odyssey PC680 Battery
This Odyssey battery model PC680 has a sturdy construction, to withstand vibration and constant pounding.
The battery features tight packaging with pure lead plates and a non-spillable design.
It has 520 cranking amps and fast recharging time.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Durable battery
- It comes pre-charged
Cons
- Non-returnable item
Jake's TakeBefore you buy this battery or any battery, check the specification to make sure it fits your vehicle.
It is a standard battery with great performance and longer cycle life.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
5
Optima Batteries 8040-218 D35 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
This Optima battery is very resistant and durable in all weather conditions.
It has 98 minutes reserve capacity for constant performance, which makes it reliable.
The battery has 620 of cold cranking amps and weighs over 35 pounds.
It is suitable for accessories like running lights, high-performance stereo/AV system, winches, or hydraulics, and seasonal vehicles.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Longer reserve capacity
- Versatile unit
Cons
- High price tag
Jake's TakeThis battery is versatile and can be used for racing vehicles without a charging system, dedicated drag racers, and vehicles with inverters, winches, or other accessories.
However, the price tag is a bit higher.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
6
ACDelco 94RAGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 94R Battery
This ACDelco battery is powerful and expensive.
It features silver calcium stamped alloy which increases cycle life for the highest performance.
It weighs over 50 pounds and has a 3-year limited warranty.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Calcium lead positive grid for improved conductivity
- Puncture resistant back
Cons
- Limited replacement options
Jake's TakeThis battery is an investment that will pay for itself in the long run.
However, make sure that your vehicle is compatible with the battery.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
7
Optima Batteries 8012-021 D34 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
This Dual purpose battery from Optima has 750 cold-cranking amps and a C2O capacity of 55 Ampere hour.
It comes with a reserve capacity of two hours and can be used in all weather conditions.
The unit features a three times longer life span than similar batteries and is maintenance-free.
The battery offers 300+ cycles of discharges and recharges.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Long reserve capacity
- Durable and high-quality
Cons
- Pricey
Jake's TakeThis battery with yellow top from Optima is suitable for many years of continuous use
Moreover, it works excellent even if you leave your car in the garage during the harsh winter.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
8
Optima Batteries 8014-045 D34/78 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
This battery from Optima model 8014-045 D34/78 has a low discharge rate, so it is suitable for seasonal use.
The battery case is made of polypropylene for durability.
It weighs over 40 pounds and has 750 cold-cranking amps.
The C20 capacity is 55 Ampere hour.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Low discharge rate
- Spill-proof design
Cons
- Limited warranty
Jake's TakeOptima cannot go bad with batteries.
Keep in mind that Optima batteries with the yellow top are suitable for systems that require lots of energy.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
9
Optima Batteries 8002-002 34 RedTop Starting Battery
The red-top Optima battery model 8002-002 34, features 800 cold-cranking amps and C20 capacity of 50 Ampere hour.
It has 100 minutes of reserved power capacity, so you will never be surprised in unwanted situations.
The propylene case has a spill-proof design and is durable in all weather conditions.
This battery is suitable for massive use by hot rods and off-roaders.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Durable battery
- Strong starting burst
Cons
- The performance decrease over the time
Jake's TakeThe red top batteries from Optima are suitable for standard engine ignition.
You can use it for a variety of vehicles and RVs.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
10
Optima Batteries 8016-103 D34M BlueTop Starting and Deep Cycle Marine Battery
The blue top Optima battery is for marine use and the model 8016-103 D34M works as a boat battery or RV battery.
It has 750 cold-cranking amps with 870 amperes.
The battery is easy to mount and weighs over 40 pounds.
It is maintenance-free and has a fast recharging time.
Check the current price on Amazon >>
Pros
- Durable – three times more recharging cycles than similar batteries
- Strong-cranking power source
Cons
- Overpriced
Jake's TakeIn the long run, this battery will cost you less than more affordable ones.
It will last longer, but the initial investment is expensive.
>> Click here to see pricing, ratings, and reviews on Amazon.com <<
Car Batteries Buying Guide
The entire, complex system such as a vehicle or boat, depends and relies on the battery.
Therefore, when its time to buy a new battery, you should pay close attention to what you are getting.
Sometimes, your car can crank, but it won’t start.
We have all been there and faced the unpleasant situation of the vehicle won’t start.
To prevent that, you will need a good and durable battery.
Batteries also power all electrical systems in hour cars, including stereo, lights, GPS, cameras, etc.
Our buying guide will help you to choose the most suitable battery in your price range and for your needs, by showing you more about batteries and their performances.
Things to Consider When Buying a Car Battery
When the time comes for the battery replacement, you should do a quick research of the most common batteries for your car and read a few user reviews.
Here are the few things to pay attention to when buying a new car battery.
Compatibility
You may think that compatibility is obvious factors, but you would be surprised how many people get the wrong battery.
Some authorized dealers don’t offer a replacement option.
Therefore, it is necessary to check whether the battery will be suitable for your car, model and the year of production.
The safest way to get the right battery is to ask your mechanic to recommend the one.
However, if that is not possible, we recommend analyzing your car specifications and comparing it with the battery information.
Batteries are divided into several categories which features a numerical mark.
Follow our guide and get the appropriate battery.
- 24/24F (top terminal): Nissan, Acura, Infiniti, Toyota, Lexus, Honda,
- 34/78 (dual terminal): Chrysler vehicles, General Motors pickups manufactured from 1996 to 2000, sedans, SUVs
- 35 (top terminal): Mostly Japanese cars, such as newer Honda models, Subaru, Toyota, Nissan.
- 47 (top terminal): Volkswagen, Fiat, Buick, Chevrolet,
- 48 (top terminal): Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Volvo, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Jeep, Volkswagen, Audi
- 49 (top terminal): Hyundai, and Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi
- 51R (top terminal): Mazda, Nissan, Honda
- 65 (top terminal): Ford, Mercury sports cars Fits
- 75 (side terminal): GM medium cars, Chrysler
However, use our guide just as a starting point and compare the car requirements with the battery specification.
Consult with the mechanic if you are still unsure.
Getting the wrong battery might help you start the car, but it can damage your car.
Battery Specifications Explained
You don’t have to be an expert to understand the expected battery performance after reading the specifications.
Understanding several terms and measurements will do the trick.
Cranking Ampers and Cold Cranking Ampers
Cranking ampers shows how much power your battery can provide at 32 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 seconds at 1.2 volts.
Cold-cranking ampers () show the same, but at 0-degree Fahrenheit.
If you live in an area that faces long and cold winters, you should pay closer attention to CCA.
The CCA numbers are more significant for diesel cars.
Therefore, pick the one with higher CCA.
Also, newer cars with computers need less CCA power to start.
However, if you are unsure and facing a dilemma, your best call is to consult with a mechanic.
Reserve Capacity
Reserve Capacity (RC) shows you how much minutes your battery can operate when it experiences the malfunction in the charging process.
The average RC is 90 minutes, but the higher end batteries come with the two hours of reserve capacity.
The RC is significant, for example, when you forget to turn off the lights, and you drain the battery completely.
You will have 90 minutes for a jumpstart and recharging the battery.
Battery Life
The number of recharging cycles that don’t affect the performance of a battery is battery life.
The temperature affects battery life, in a sense the high temperature can cause damage.
Therefore, if you live in a tropical area, expect a shorter lifespan of your battery than stated in the product specifications.
For those reasons, try to get the one with the highest number of battery cycles.
Freshness
The battery deteriorates over time, so you should get the battery that as fresh as possible.
Our advice is to buy the battery manufactured in the last six months.
That way, you will ensure maximum performance.
To check for the manufacturers’ data, pay attention to the codes in the form Letter/number. The letter indicates the manufacturing month and the number shows the year.
Maintenance
Batteries come as a low-maintenance and a zero-maintenance type.
There is a significant difference between the two types.
Low-Maintenance Battery
The low-maintenance battery comes with the loose cap, and occasionally you will have to add water to ensures optimal performance.
These batteries are more suitable for people living in hot climates because you can use water to cool the battery and prolong its life.
Zero-Maintenance Battery
The batteries with zero-maintenance have the sealed cap, that prevents leaking and spilling because of the vibrations.
Those are common choices today, but we recommend checking the battery from time to time, just to make sure that the cap is sealed.
Warranty
Batteries come with a limited warranty.
Some dealers offered a replacement and probation period, but you should read the requirement carefully.
Also, batteries ship in a sealed package, but if you notice issues with the packaging, you should ask for reimbursement, because the battery can be damaged.
When is the Time to Get a New Battery?
As we stated earlier, your vehicle relies on the battery.
So, inspect the battery from time to time to see if you should start looking for a new one.
We will go briefly through some indicators that show that your battery is slowly dying.
Battery Age
If you bought a battery more than three years ago, start searching for a new one.
Check Engine Light and Slow Start
When the battery isn’t working as your car needs it, it can cause issues to the engine.
Also, if you notice a slower start repeatedly, chances you will need a replacement battery soon.
We advise you not to wait for the battery to die completely, rather replace it on time.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a new car battery, there are things to pay attention to get the best one.
Make sure that the battery fits your car, model and year of origin.
For example, cranking amps and cold cranking amps shows you the expected performance of a battery in different weather condition.
The higher the numbers are, the batter the battery is.
There are some small differences with the suitable batteries for you and the common weather conditions.
For example, if you live in a hot climate get the low-maintenance battery.
Oppositely, people in colder climates can take zero-maintenance battery but should look the one with higher CCA.
Always consult your mechanic about the compatibility and your car requirement.
What's your take on Car Batteries? You think they're just a luxury or a must-have item? Don't hesitate to share your comment below with your opinion!
