5 keys to choosing the right car battery

You probably already know that it is impossible to set a standard lifespan for a car battery. Its useful life can range from 4 to 5 years, depending on the quality of the battery, how the vehicle is used, the climate… But the truth is that when the battery says “that’s it,” it usually happens unexpectedly or at the worst possible moment.

Whether winter has taken its toll on your car battery or it has simply reached the end of its useful life, there are some tips worth keeping in mind when choosing a new battery. Let’s look at them.

1.- Amperage, cranking power and size

It is very important that the new battery has, at the very least, the same capacity (measured in ampere-hours) and cranking power (amps) as the one you are replacing. You can find this data in the vehicle manual or on the battery itself. We often focus only on capacity, but cranking power determines the battery’s ability to deliver its peak energy output at the moment of starting. The higher it is, the greater the cold-start capacity.

If you choose a battery with the same capacity but lower cranking power, the car will run correctly, but the battery will wear out sooner; and vice versa. Be careful, though, because in many cases a battery with greater capacity or higher cranking power is also physically larger, and you may find it doesn’t fit in the space.

Besides size, you also need to consider the position of the positive and negative terminals, since the cables usually only reach for one mounting position.

2.- Battery type: maintenance-free is best

Whenever possible, the best option is a maintenance-free battery, although it’s true that very few batteries that require maintenance are still available. This will spare you from having to check the electrolyte level in the cells and top them up when necessary.

Maintenance-free batteries use a special system that recombines the gases generated during use, turning them back into water that returns to the battery. This prevents the level from dropping and means you don’t have to worry about topping it up.

3.- A reputable brand means a guarantee of quality

With car batteries, the saying “cheap is expensive” also applies. As a general rule, a battery from an unknown brand may be attractive because of its lower price, but this type of battery tends to last less. Simply put, it discharges more quickly with use and does not withstand temperature variations as well.

A good option can be a “white label” battery. But look carefully at the price, because the savings often aren’t worth it. Especially if you don’t really know who is behind that “second brand.” It’s best not to trust too readily when you’re being pushed to take a battery that, according to the seller, is made by well-known brands such as Varta, Bosch or Tudor… “but they just change the stickers and you save money.”

4.- Batteries for cars with start-stop

If your car has an automatic start-stop system, the battery has to be designed for it, since engines with this system need more powerful batteries. Also, be careful, because they cannot be disconnected from the car to fit the new one without the proper equipment.

Check your vehicle manual, because if your car has an energy recovery system in addition to start-stop, it will also need a special battery.

5.- Battery warranty

Be wary of any battery that doesn’t come with a warranty, whether from the manufacturer or from the store where you buy it. There are imported batteries designed for markets with less demanding regulations, and in these cases the battery may not come with adequate warranty coverage. All batteries should offer at least two years of warranty, although some manufacturers offer up to three years.

Related information

• Look after your car battery in winter
• Five mistakes that shorten your car battery’s life
• How is battery voltage measured?