Best car battery brands

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When people ask the most important vehicle component, the fastest answer you get is “the engine.” True, without the engine, your car won’t move. But what people don’t quickly realize is that without the car battery, the engine is useless. So once your battery starts failing, you may need a new battery. 

However, it’s sometimes confusing picking the best replacement car battery since many are in the market. So we have compiled a list of excellent car battery brands. These car battery brands produce different batteries for different cars and purposes. So whether you need a starter battery or a regular battery, one of these brands could be what you need.

Best car battery brands

Batteries are not a one size fits all thing. There are different batteries built for different cars. Follow as we show you some of the best car batteries manufacturers.

1. Optima

Optima batteries are one of the leading automotive battery manufacturers today and have been in production for over 40 years. They lead as manufacturers of auto, marine, and commercial batteries. Wonder how they stay on top after so long? Optima batteries are durable, reliable, and work in all conditions and orientations. So whether you drive an SUV, truck, or other regular cars, Optima batteries can serve you. 

Optima batteries can last twice the lifespan of a conventional lead-acid battery. They also utilize a sealed casing feature making it maintenance-free. All Optima batteries are built with a unique six-pack design and spiracle AGM technology, with most models having a 3 years free replacement warranty.

There are three types of batteries from this brand. They include the red top, yellow top, and blue top batteries, each built for specific purposes. For example, the Optima batteries redtop is built to give a quick, energetic start to your car in only 5 seconds–for normal engines, though. 

The yellow top battery, on the other hand, is suitable for powering car accessories and one of the best AGM car batteries that have flooded the market recently. So for modern cars loaded with accessories, the Optima yellowtop is suitable for you.

The Optima blue top batteries are used for a dedicated start, deep cycling, or both. Two types of Optimal blue batteries were made to serve this purpose–dark grey case and light blue case. The dark grey case is ideal for starting a vehicle, while the light grey case is built for both starting and deep recycling.

Pros

• Can be used by a wide range of cars 
• Works in all conditions and orientation (hot and cold climate)
• Durable
• Sealed casing helps in preventing corrosion
• Sealed casing makes it maintenance-free
• It comes with a replacement warranty

Cons

• A bit expensive 
• Heavy as it may reduce the speed of smaller cars

2. Acdelco

Acdelco is one of the oldest car battery producers and somehow has been able to stay on top. This must be for a reason. Acdelco came into existence in 1916 with Grand Blach, Mich, United States as its headquarters. They produce AGM batteries that are reliable, of good value, and high spec. 

Since General Motors own Acdelco, they make OEM parts for General motors. In contrast, they make aftermarket parts for non-General motors. Their batteries are built for various vehicles such as trucks, military, passenger, and commercial vehicles.  Acdelco batteries for non-commercial cars come with a three-year warranty.

They are popularly known for producing high-performance batteries and generally meet required standards for batteries. Acdelco batteries feature a strong terminal, helping them withstand corrosive conditions. They can also retain charge for many years, thanks to their large reservoir.

Among many, the Acdelco advantage battery is its top battery line. It features a high cycling capacity and is spillproof. It features an absorbed glass mat design built with a valve-regulated recombinant technology. Because of this feature, the battery can last three times the lifespan of traditional batteries.

Pros

• Durable
• High performance 
• Can be used by a wide range of vehicles 
• Doesn’t require maintenance 
• Can hold a charge for long
• Able to withstand corrosion

Cons

• Expensive than conventional batteries

3. Odyssey

Another top car battery manufacturer is Odyssey, known for producing high-quality and durable batteries. Odyssey batteries are a product of EnerSys Energy. While Odyssey has its headquarters in Reading, US, they are sold worldwide. They have car batteries built for marine, trucks, heavy-duty, fleet, PowerS ports, and recreational vehicles.

Their long life span, extended life cycle, ability to withstand extreme temperature and vibration makes the battery an exceptional choice. They feature an AGM design, hence no need for watering, and come mostly with a four-year replacement warranty. Odyssey batteries, just like Optima, come in three lines. They include the Odyssey extreme series, performance, and pro series.

The Extreme series has a deep recycling capacity and life (can last 400 cycles with only 20% charge left according to manufacturers). This makes them ideal for import and luxury cars. The Extreme series group model 35 is commonly fitted to Toyotas and Hondas and has a cold cranking amp rating of 850.

Meanwhile, the Odyssey Performance series has a high power holding capacity. Hence, making it a good fit for accessory-loaded vehicles. Their pro series, on the other hand, charges faster than conventional batteries. Thus, an ideal choice to start and stop your car. 

Pros

• Used for different conditions
• Built for a wide range of vehicles
• Long lifespan
• Ability to withstand extreme temperature
• Deep cycling capacity
• Can hold a charge for long
• Tolerant to vibrations

Cons

• Expensive

4. Duracell

Duracell is a popular name in the automotive industry. Since 1920, they have existed and are known for their reliability, quality, and experience in production. Their batteries cover many automobiles, including vehicles and marine and domestic use. 

Duracell batteries can be used on trucks, vans, electric cars, mobile homes, buses, yachts, motorboats, camping caravans, agricultural and construction machines, etc.  Because of their solidness and strength, Duracells can withstand extreme working conditions.

This battery also comes in various types meant for specific purposes, amongst which are the starter, advanced, extreme, EFB, and extreme AGM Duracell batteries. Their advanced batteries deliver the right power to start your car and are ideal for the latest vehicles. 

Their extreme EFB is built for small and medium vehicles and LCV, giving adequate power to start and stop your car.  In contrast, the Duracell Extreme AGM is an ideal choice for vehicles with complex start and stop functions.

Pros

• Strong
• Can be used for a wide range of vehicles
• Used for different purposes
• Can withstand extreme conditions
• Reliable
• Durable

Cons

• Expensive than traditional batteries

5. Bosch

Bosch has a top reputation in producing auto parts like oil filters, brake rotors, car batteries, etc. Bosch is one of the most sought-after car batteries and will find it in many cars mainly because they offer some of the most affordable car batteries yet works well. 

If Bosch has been in production since 1886 and is still one of the most used car batteries, it tells something. They have experience in this field of production and offer high-quality batteries. Bosch batteries can be used on trucks, e-vehicles, military, commercial, and passenger vehicles.

Bosch has four lines of batteries built for specific purposes. They include the S3 value Performance, S4 quality performance, S5 premium power, and S6 high-performance AGM battery. For older vehicles with fewer electrical accessories, the S3 is a perfect fit. For mid-size vehicles with average electrical accessories, the S4 is an ideal choice.

The S5 is built for luxury class vehicles, including top-quality domestic cars, imported vehicles, and other vehicles with loaded electrical accessories. The S6 batteries offer a lot of power and have excellent starting ability in extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold.

Pros

• Built for a wide range of vehicles
• Work in extreme temperature
• Affordable
• Durable

Cons

• Expensive than standard batteries 

6. Interstate

Interstate is one of the most trusted battery brands in the United States of America.  And one of the most affordable car batteries you can find on the market. They offer batteries for heavy-duty lawns, agricultural and automotive trucks, RVs, marine and garden autos. Interstate car batteries are available in five lines meant to serve different needs of car owners.

They include the M, MT, MTP, MTX, and MTZ. The interstate M batteries deliver great power needed to start your car and are an ideal choice for car owners looking for value at an affordable price. While the interstate MT batteries are built to work in hot weather, the MTP is ideal for those who live in cold climates below freezing temperatures.

The MTX interstate AGM batteries deliver high-quality performance and extended battery life for vehicles that have a set up of an AGM battery. The Interstate MTZ is their top-end battery and offers a strong starting power and performance to vehicles loaded with accessories.

Pros

• Affordable option
• Capable of serving the needs of many car owners
• Premium performance
• Works well in all kinds of extreme temperatures 
• Reliable and durable

Cons

• Price is more than a traditional battery

7. DieHard

Another excellent brand of battery you will find in the market today is DieHard. Since its inception in 1967, they have been concerned with making durable batteries. Particularly batteries that have an extended lifespan than a vehicle. Have they accomplished this? Not entirely, but they are thriving.

Their battery producers during production utilize the latest technology that ensures the battery matches the power needed by today’s vehicles. They are durable, powerful, and reliable. DieHard batteries are built for various automobiles such as small engines, marine, trucks, cars, Powersports, and heavy-duty agricultural automobiles.

DieHard car batteries are available in five lines. They include platinum AGM, gold, silver, and red DieHard batteries built to meet different vehicle needs. And can work in diverse conditions, including freezing climates, thanks to its capacity and all-around performance.

Pros

• Durable
• Reliable
• Powerful
• All-round performer
• Works well in extreme temperatures

Cons

• Expensive option

8. Napa

Napa, called Napa auto parts, stands as one of the best retailers for auto parts. This brand offers vehicle owners durable batteries ranging from Lithium-ion batteries, Absorbed glass mat, lead-acid wet cells, and lead-acid gel cells. 

Napa offers four lines of batteries which are power, legend, legend premium, and legend premium AGM Napa batteries. Napa power batteries deliver high performance with a reliable capacity to start and reverse your car. It comes with a free maintenance warranty and features high-quality construction.

Napa legend is famous for its extended lifespan and incredible ability to start your car. Its performance is consistent, courtesy of its diverse internal reinforcement components. For drivers looking to maximize their starting performance, the Napa legend premium is an ideal option. Its build also makes it able to work under extreme climates. 

Napa legend premium batteries also have a large reserve capacity, which ensures there is power even in emergencies. The highest battery in the Napa battery line is the legend premium AGM. It has a very high tolerance to vibrations hence, providing good power to start the car. It’s notable spill-proof which makes it safe to use.

Pros

• Creating starting power
• Durable
• Features absorbed glass mat AGM technology 
• High reserve capacity
• High vibration resistance 

Cons

• May contain lead and other toxic substance 

9. Ever Start

Everstart is one of the battery products of Johnson’s controls. They share some of the technology of Johnson’s premium brand batteries but at more affordable prices.  While this manufacturer makes AGM batteries, you will get good value for money in their wet cell models. Everstart offers a 12-36 month warranty depending on your model choice.

One of their most reliable models is the Everstart Maxx 35. Lab test had shown that this flooded lead-acid battery performed better than some AGM car batteries twice its price. You will find this Everstart battery Maxx series in many sizes. However, it works better for sizes used in cars and crossovers. 

The everstart Maxx 35 has up to 640 cold-cranking amps and comes with a 36-month full replacement warranty. Careful drivers will use this battery for long and won’t need to make a replacement. However, only a few drivers can achieve this.

Pros

• Great performance
• Good cold-cranking amps
• Affordable 

Cons

• Won’t last as long as most premium brands

10. Xs Power

Xs Power batteries have been in existence since 2005. Their batteries are built for high performance, particularly for drivers competing in stereo contests. They produce AGM batteries which happen to be one of the best in the industry. 

Their high-performance quality has made this battery one of the most expensive AGM car batteries on the market. But despite the prices, people still go for it since it delivers incredible performance. All models from this XS Power come with a 36 months warranty starting from the date of purchase.

Pros

• Great quality performance
• Ideal for those in a stereo contest

Cons

• One of the most expensive batteries in the market.

Types of car battery 

There are different types of automotive batteries built for different purposes. Using one for what’s it’s not intended for could reduce battery performance, life, or practically destroy it. So here are different battery types available for every car owner and their use case.

Flooded lead-acid battery (wet cell)

The flooded acid batteries also called starting lighting ignition(SLI), are among the oldest battery models ever used. They are basically used to start a car or power its accessories.  Before now, you will find it in almost every car. However, with modern cars having many electrical accessories or more technological gadgets, this battery is no longer feasible to use.

Wet cell batteries feature six cells with a liquid electrolyte solution of sulfuric acid and water. You will need to top some of these models occasionally to keep it working. It is always kept in a vertical position to prevent water from spilling. One would need to pay close attention to its remaining power during use because

using it when it’s below 50 % reduces its life. Older cars with fewer electrical components will find this car battery useful. However, if you use modern vehicles loaded with many electrical or heavy-duty appliances, don’t use them.

Absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery

AGM batteries are like flooded lead-acid batteries but are valve-regulated acid batteries. While they are better than the wet cell battery, they are more expensive. They are best suited for modern vehicles loaded with electronics. 

They look like the flooded lead-acid batteries but use separator fiberglass, which keeps the electrolyte solution in place by absorbing it. An AGM car battery comes sealed; hence don’t spill water, so you don’t need to place them vertically. Compared to flooded batteries, AGM is better as it can charge faster and last longer. 

AGM isn’t affected by deep discharge; hence, you can use more than 80% of its capacity without affecting battery life. And a very suitable option for cars with an automatic start/stop technology. It’s worthy to note that an AGM battery will not work to its full potential if outfitted with a car built for flooded lead-acid car batteries.

Please note that most manufacturer offers two types of AGM batteries. One is the standard AGM, while the other is the premium AGM batteries. While both will work for the same vehicles, premium AGM batteries are ideal for demanding conditions.

Deep cycle battery 

Deep cycle batteries are also called marine batteries. They are built with a lead-acid solution but can be flooded or sealed. Their cells utilize a denser active substance and thicker battery plate. Thus, they can sustain low power for long. AGMs are ideal choices for boats and recreational vehicles.

What to consider when buying a car battery

Before buying a battery, here are a few things to consider. This ensures you get value for your money and prevent unnecessary anger. Sometimes, the batteries are good, but you use them for the wrong cars or reasons.

Battery group size or case size

Vehicle manufacturers have a specific battery size to fit into the space allocated for batteries. The numbers are sometimes two (26, 38, 59) or letters mixed with numbers (H5, H8). Getting the correct size will ensure your battery fits into the allocated space and helps reconnect cables properly. 

Your recommended battery size should be in your owner’s manual. However, if you can’t find it there, Google it using your car’s model or check your previous battery.

Cranking power and reserve capacity

Cold Cranking power refers to the starting performance of the battery in cold temperatures. It’s an excellent way to measure how much power your battery can retain in a short while. Whereas reserve capacity refers to how long the battery will take to deliver 25 amps at 25°C until its voltage reduces to 10 volts.

The CCA and reserve capacity practically state how powerful the battery is. The vehicle manufacturers clearly state the cold-cranking amps and reserve capacity recommended for every model. You should see the recommended cold-cranking amp rating and reserve capacity in your owner’s manual. Otherwise, use your previous battery as a guide.

If you do not follow your manufacturer’s recommendation for vehicle CCA and Ah minimum, the battery will work fine. However, your battery will wear out quickly. It’s better to go over than below the recommended CCA or Ah.

Type of battery and vehicle’s age 

Every vehicle has a specific car battery suited for it. Vehicles loaded with fewer electronics will do well with flooded lead-acid batteries. For cars that are 10 years old or more and driven regularly over short distances, you will do fine with the regular car batteries. But if you want the battery to last longer, AGM might be a good option.

Recent cars with many electronics should opt for AGM as replacement batteries. AGM charges faster and retains charge longer than a regular battery. And even if you use more than 80% of its charge, it won’t affect the battery life.

Cars that need lighter batteries to move faster, like sport and track cars, may find lithium-ion batteries practical. Aside from shedding weight, they utilize fail-safes that ensure the battery does not discharge completely. 

While some AGMs are also light, lithium batteries will last longer being used in such conditions. Lithium batteries also hold charge for more extended periods while sitting idle than wet cell batteries.

Price

Every car battery has a different price depending on the manufacturer. Even for flooded lead-acid batteries, the price isn’t the same for every brand. The major factors affecting price are the CCA, size, reserve capacity, and warranty. Knowing these will let you know how much to budget. Brands offering a 3-4 years full replacement warranty will usually cost more.

Previous battery that came with your car

What was the standard factory battery for your car? If your car comes with a flooded battery, you might choose to upgrade. This won’t affect its performance negatively, but you will pay more. AGM or lithium batteries are usually more expensive. But be sure the car is also set up to work with AGMs.

In contrast, if your car comes standard with an AGM, do not replace it with flooded lead-acid batteries. Most cars standard with AGM is mostly new vehicles with a lot of electronics. Using anything below might decrease battery performance and shorten the battery’s life.

If your vehicle has an automatic start/stop feature and comes standard with flooded acid batteries, please upgrade to AGM. Flood acid batteries cannot withstand heat. Whereas AGMs can withstand heat, keeping your battery for more extended periods. AGM can also utilize the smallest reserve charge without recharging it and still work fine and last long.

Maintenance

Some car batteries will require you to maintain the battery sometimes by adding water. For some, they are sealed and, therefore, maintenance-free. Flooded lead-acid batteries will require topping with electrolytes, whereas AGMs are maintenance-free; that is, they are sealed. So know the one you can cope with 

Warranty

Some batteries do not work as promised by manufacturers. Consider brands that offer replacement warranties. Should anything go wrong within the warranty period, you are safe.

Expiration date

Every battery comes with life’s expectancy. Some are built to last 3-5 years, others 10 years. So do well to check the production date of whatever battery you’re buying. If in 2022 you buy a new battery manufactured in 2019 with a life expectancy of 4 years, you are probably investing badly. It won’t be long before it expires.

Pro tips

• If your car is built for AGM batteries, stick to AGM. Do the same for wet cells or lithium-ion batteries. Else they won’t work as they should
• Ensure your battery terminals are clean. This helps prevent rust or corrosion. Use a toothbrush dipped into water mixed with baking soda, then rinse with water and allow it to dry well
• Drivers who go through bumpy roads should ensure their batteries are well-tightened. Too much vibration causes a battery to go out of position damaging its internal circuits.

How do you know when you need a new car battery?

Many symptoms show your battery is failing and needs a new one. However, the most obvious is when your engine starts cranking slowly. Other symptoms of a failing battery include dim headlights resulting from the inability of the battery to power all electrical accessories.

Excessive corrosion around battery cables could also mean your battery is due for a change. In other cases, once the lifespan has elapsed, you will need a new battery. Check the expiration date to tell when to replace it. 

Some batteries last three years, some four, and others up to ten years, depending on battery type and maintenance level. For batteries more than three years old or more, do a battery test annually; it’s one of the ways to be sure of your battery’s condition.

Final words

We have carefully listed some battery manufacturers that make good batteries. Knowing the best car battery brand will make your search easy and the purchasing process effortless. However, ensure you know your battery type before opting for any car battery brand.

FAQs

Which brand of car battery is the best?

Optima, Oddysey, Duracell, Aldeco, etc., are some vehicle battery makers you can rely on. Their batteries are strong, perform well, and are durable. They can also cover a wide range of vehicles and are used in different conditions. Just know the kind of battery your car needs and go for one of the good brands that offer it. 

How long does a car battery last?

Car batteries can last between 3-10 years, depending on the type and how well it is maintained. Flood batteries have a shorter life due to the heavy electrical accessories in modern cars they power and can last between 3-5 years. On the other hand, an AGM battery properly cared for can go more than ten years.

What is the longest car battery brand?

Optima battery is one of the best car batteries with the longest performance. Their redtop battery, for example, has a 100 minutes reserve capacity and 800 cold-cranking amps. So it works well in cold climates.