You probably already know this, but your car needs a battery to function correctly. If your battery dies, the car won’t start, and various electronics like the dome lights, radio, and even security features such as door locks or alarms won’t work properly. Therefore, it’s crucial to keep your car’s battery in excellent condition, especially if your vehicle sits unused for extended periods. A trickle charger can maintain the battery’s charge, or, in a pinch, a portable jump starter can help restart your car. However, batteries do wear out and will eventually need to be replaced. Knowing the best car battery brands can make this process smoother, so let’s dive in.
AC Delco has been in business for over a century and is highly recommended for GM vehicles. You can find these batteries at retailers like AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Amazon, and some Walmart stores. They’re reliable, fairly priced, and typically come with a solid warranty of 18 months or more, depending on where you buy them. A standout series from AC Delco is the Advantage line.
Bosch offers mid-range batteries in both quality and price. While they have some budget-friendly options, their higher-end batteries are still reasonably priced with multiple tiers to suit various vehicles. However, Bosch batteries aren’t available at all retailers, but you can find them online or at Bosch service centers. Notable series include the S4 to S6 and T4 to T6 lines, and their four-year free replacement warranty is exceptional.
Dakota specializes in Lithium batteries, boasting an impressive warranty of up to 11 years for some products. Although they are more expensive, their reliability is top-notch. You might have difficulty finding Dakota batteries at local stores, but they are available on Amazon.
DieHard, famously associated with Bruce Willis in a marketing campaign, offers long-lasting and reliable batteries compatible with a wide range of vehicles. You’ll pay a bit more for their lead-acid and AGM batteries, but the cost is worth it. Their warranties typically cover from two to four years after purchase.
EverStart is Walmart’s in-house battery brand, known for being affordable, versatile, and well-reviewed. They fit a variety of vehicles and come with a multi-year warranty, which is convenient if you live near a Walmart. If you need a battery urgently, EverStart is a solid choice, but consider other brands if possible. Notable series include Maxx and Platinum AGM.
Interstate has been around since the early 1950s and is sold at places like Costco and other retailers. The brand is well-recognized, offering decent warranties ranging from 18 months to 48 months for their higher-end products. If available locally, Interstate batteries are a good option, although they are manufactured in various facilities. Key series to consider are the MTX and MTZ AGM lines.
Ford Motorcraft, produced by Clarios, is a legendary brand, especially if you own a Ford. These OEM batteries are available at retailers like O’Reilly Auto Parts and Walmart. Priced competitively, they offer a 36-month free replacement warranty and are compatible with many Ford vehicles. Notable batteries include the BAGM and VMAX variants.
Odyssey is somewhat underrated but highly reliable, especially the Extreme series. Their batteries have long shelf lives and come with a four-year full replacement warranty. They are available at NAPA, Advance, Walmart, Amazon, and other retailers.
Optima has been in the battery business for over 40 years, catering to cars, trucks, RVs, and marine applications. They also offer battery chargers. Although not cheap, Optima batteries are extremely reliable and come with excellent warranties. Some worth noting are the REDTOP and POWERSPORTS series.
XS Power may be newer, but it has already made a name for itself by providing powerful batteries for various commercial and military applications. You can find them at third-party retailers and online stores like Amazon and Walmart. They specialize in AGM and Lithium batteries, focusing on high-performance use. Warranties generally range from one to three years, with a 60-day risk-free guarantee.
When choosing battery brands, we considered a few important factors:
– The battery should last for years, ideally beyond five years, with high-quality materials and design.
– Reliability is key. While we can’t monitor every issue, these brands generally have positive reviews and can handle different temperatures and climates.
– After-purchase warranties are important; the best brands offer extended coverage.
– Compatibility is crucial. Batteries come in various sizes, and you need to ensure the one you buy fits your vehicle.
Signs you need a new battery include an old battery, failing terminals, or your car not starting. Other issues might indicate the need for a replacement, especially if you’re experiencing multiple problems simultaneously.
Most retailers carry a limited selection of car batteries. If your car is over ten years old, you may need to order your battery and wait. Most locations should have what you need otherwise.
Buying a battery involves an extra charge, typically $10 to $20, which is refunded when you return your old one for recycling. Never throw your old battery in the trash; it must be recycled properly. If you prefer professional installation, choose a retailer that offers the service, like Walmart’s auto department, Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, or similar locations. If you’re comfortable installing it yourself, you can buy online and pick up in-store or have it shipped to your home.