I don’t think I get overwhelmed easily, but when I helped my buddy try to buy a new battery for their car last weekend, I thought my head might explode. There was an entire row of options to choose from, and I didn’t know where to start. If you’ve ever wondered if a lithium-ion or AGM battery has a longer lifespan, or struggled choosing the correct car battery for your vehicle, this blog is for you.
Different Car Battery Types
Selecting the best battery for your vehicle involves considering several factors, including the type of auto you drive, your driving habits, and the climate in which you live.
Lead-Acid Battery
Lead-acid batteries are known for their reliability and affordability, which is why they are the most commonly used for automobiles. They fall into two main types: flooded and sealed.
Flooded lead-acid batteries use a liquid electrolyte that requires regular maintenance. You may need to add distilled water if the electrolyte solution is low to maintain an adequate charge. These battery types are widely used, but may die quicker than other style batteries.
Sealed lead acid batteries are maintenance-free and leak-proof, making them a more convenient and safe option. Sealed lead-acid batteries are slightly more expensive than the flooded kind, but they tend to last longer and are slightly better suited for vehicles with a higher electric demand.
Most vehicles equipped with either type of lead-acid battery are flexible enough that you can upgrade them with a more powerful and dependable type if needed.
Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Battery
Vehicles equipped with a factory-installed AGM battery require the same type of battery when it’s time for a replacement. AGM batteries use fiberglass mats that absorb an electrolyte solution, offering several advantages over traditional flooded or sealed lead-acid batteries. They are popular with modern car owners due to their resistance to vibration, higher starting power, and longer life. AGM batteries are ideal for cars with high electric demands or for vehicles that utilize start/stop ignition systems.
Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Battery
Automobiles with factory-installed Li-ion batteries must replace the old battery with a new one of the same type. Lithium-ion technology has gained popularity since it’s used mostly in electric vehicles (EVs). However, conventional cars are also benefiting from the reliable and consistent power delivery. Lithium-ion batteries are more lightweight and have a longer lifespan compared to the lead-acid battery types. Although lithium-ion batteries can be more expensive than lead-acid or AGM batteries, they charge quickly and are highly efficient.
Gell-Cell Battery
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, consider a gel-cell battery, since they perform well in hot and cold climates. Gel cell batteries are a variant of lead-acid technology, but they contain a thickened electrolyte solution to reduce leaks or spills. Since the electrolyte is a thick gel, the battery doesn’t have to be installed upright, unlike a typical lead-acid battery. Gel cell batteries perform well in extreme temperatures and are virtually maintenance-free; however, they may be more expensive and have a lower power output compared to AGM battery types. Gel cell batteries usually work best in specialty vehicles or applications where extreme temperature resistance is a priority.
Choosing The Correct Car Battery
If you are looking to buy a replacement battery, you may feel overwhelmed with all the options. Once you determine which battery type your vehicle requires, it’s time to consider other characteristics to find the perfect fit.
Different Battery Sizes
Manufacturers sort car batteries by size. The Battery Council International (BCI) created a classification system called The BCI Group Sizes. This system helps you easily identify the correct battery size for your vehicle. Since car, SUV, and truck batteries vary in shape and size, it’s important to choose one that fits your specific vehicle make, model, and year. You can usually see the battery group size printed on a label (located on the battery’s top or side) of your current battery. If you are still unsure which size your car needs, try reading your owner’s manual.
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)
All vehicles require a specific amount of power to start the engine in cold weather. This power amount is measured by CCA, or cold cranking amperage. A battery’s CCA rating measures the amount of electric current it can discharge for 30 sustained seconds at a temperature of 0°F, while maintaining a voltage of 7.2 volts. To find your vehicle’s minimum CCA rating, you can:
- Inspect the label on your current battery
- Read your vehicle’s manual
- Consult your auto technician or a reputable online resource
It’s okay to choose a car battery with a higher CCA rating, since it can improve vehicle performance in extreme conditions. However, it’s not okay to install a battery with a lower CCA rating than the auto manufacturer’s recommendation.
Is Your Car Battery Dying? Let’s Talk About Lifespan
Nothing lasts forever, and your car battery is no exception. These lifespan estimates are generalizations; your specific timeframe and needs may vary. Typically, the lifespan of a lead-acid battery is three to five years. The lifespan of an AGM battery is generally four to six years. The lifespan of a lithium-ion battery may be 10 years or more, depending on usage and maintenance. So, how do you know if your car battery is dying? Here are a few common signs to watch for:
- Electronic devices are glitchy
- Flickering headlights
- Hard starts
- Need a jump to turn the engine over
Car Battery Maintenance in Kirkland, WA
Fisher’s Auto Service offers a quality alternative to quick-lube, chain-store tire shops, and dealership service departments. We provide the additional convenience, integrity, and personal attention of a locally owned business in Kirkland, Washington. If you are experiencing issues with your car battery and wonder if it is nearing the end of its lifespan, we can help. Whether your car uses a traditional lead-acid battery or a newer AGM or lithium-ion battery, we can conduct a diagnostic inspection to determine the issue.
Make An Appointment
Feel free to call us at (425) 823-4441, visit our website, or stop in to make an appointment. We are open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
We look forward to seeing you!