How to buy the Best Car Battery - Reviews and Buyer's Guide

If it is time for a car battery replacement, you have many choices in price, types of technology, specifications, and power from which to choose. Depending on the type of car you have and where you live, you can choose one that offers characteristics like good cold starting capability, resistance to heat, and long storage times. This review explores a few of our favorites from some of the more popular BCI groups. This list is a good place to start when choosing your next car battery.

Best Choice

Exide Edge FP-AGM51R Flat Plate AGM Sealed Automotive Battery

The Best Car Battery

Affordable price for a good quality battery and 48 months of warranty. Exide uses exclusive SureLife Graphite Technology to extend the battery’s capacity and to perform at higher electrical loads for longer periods.

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Comparison Table

Before we get into a more in-depth exploration of our favorite batteries and different battery groups, here is a quick reference to the specifications of the batteries featured in this review.

Image	Product
Best Choice	Exide Edge FP-AGM51R Flat Plate AGM Sealed Automotive Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 440, Reserve Capacity (RC): 75, Amp-Hours (AH): 45 Battery Group: 51R Type: AGM Warranty: 48 Best for Stop-and-Go Traffic Check Price	Check Price
Best Value	ACDelco 48AGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 48 Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 760, Reserve Capacity (RC): 120, Amp-Hours (AH): 70 Battery Group: 48 Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best for Cold Starts Check Price	Check Price
Best Choice	Delphi BU9065 MaxStart AGM Premium Automotive Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 750, Reserve Capacity (RC): 150, Amp-Hours (AH): 75 Battery Group: 65 Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best for Vibration Resistance Check Price	Check Price
Best Choice	Optima Batteries 8020-164 35 RedTop Starting Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 720, Reserve Capacity (RC): 90, Amp-Hours (AH): 44 Battery Group: 35 Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best for Performance Cars Check Price	Check Price
Best Value	Odyssey Battery 94R-850 Performance Automotive Battery w/SAE Terminals Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 850, Reserve Capacity (RC): 150, Amp-Hours (AH): 80 Battery Group: 94R Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best for Storage Check Price	Check Price
Best Choice	ACDelco 49AGM Professional AGM Automotive Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 900, Reserve Capacity (RC): 160, Amp-Hours (AH): 95 Battery Group: 49 Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best for Powerful Starts Check Price	Check Price
Best Choice	Delphi BU9047 MaxStart AGM Premium Automotive Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 600, Reserve Capacity (RC): 100, Amp-Hours (AH): 60 Battery Group: 47 Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best for Harsh Environments Check Price	Check Price
Best Value	Optima Batteries 8004-003 34/78 RedTop Starting Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 800, Reserve Capacity (RC): 100, Amp-Hours (AH): 50 Battery Group: 34/78 Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best Spill-Proof Design Check Price	Check Price
Best Choice	Optima Batteries OPT8022-091 8022-091 75/25 RedTop Starting Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 720, Reserve Capacity (RC): 90, Amp-Hours (AH): 44 Battery Group: 75/25 Type: AGM Warranty: 36 Best for SUVs and Trucks Check Price	Check Price
Best Choice	NORTHSTAR NSB-AGM24F Pure Lead AGM Automotive Battery Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 840, Reserve Capacity (RC): 160, Amp-Hours (AH): 76 Battery Group: 24F Type: AGM Warranty: 48 Best General-Purpose Battery Check Price	Check Price

Car Battery Reviews

Now, let’s explore some of our favorite batteries from different BCI groups. All of the batteries in this review are Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) type batteries. AGM batteries have the acid contained in an absorbent glass mat for better contact with the lead plates, extending the term of use. We only chose this type of batteries for our list because they are more powerful than flooded lead-acid batteries and have a longer life.

1. Exide Edge FP-AGM51R – Best for Stop-and-Go Traffic

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This Exide Edge group 51R Battery is used for cars with high electrical demands from amenities like heated seats, electronic equipment, and onboard computer systems. It is an excellent choice for stop-and-go traffic, and it is made with durable case materials. Because of its ability to withstand heavy loads, manufacturers Miata, Acura, and Honda use this as one of their preferred battery types for recent model years. This battery has 45 amp hours and 75 minutes of reserve capacity. Exide offers a 4-year warranty, but with care, this battery can last much longer. It has 440 cold-cranking amps, which is good for starting on cold mornings.

This Exide battery made the list because of its affordable price for a good quality battery. Exide is a reliable brand that uses exclusive SureLife Graphite Technology. This technology extends the battery’s capacity and allows it to perform at higher electrical loads for longer periods. This gives you better protection against failure under many conditions. It is an excellent choice for older vehicles and for maintaining performance at new levels for a long period.

• Excellent cold starting ability

• Made for modern cars with heavy electronics

• Long lasting

• Good performance for many years

• Heavy to lift and carry

2. ACDelco 48 AGM Professional – Best for Cold Starts

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BCI group 48 batteries are commonly used in Chevrolet, GMC, and many more popular American car and truck brands. ACDelco is a trusted brand, and it is also affordably priced. Their professional batteries have a reputation for long life and excellent performance. This one offers 70 amp-hours of power, 760 cold-cranking amps, and a reserve capacity of 75 minutes.

ACDelco Professional series batteries use a high-density negative paste to improve the battery’s performance. They also use a calcium-lead positive grid with low resistance and maximum electricity production. This makes it efficient and helps to increase battery life. Their durable envelope separators help the battery remain cool and increase acid circulation. All these improvements in technology result in maximum cold-cranking amps and excellent starting capability. Many professionals rely on the ACDelco professional battery series for emergency vehicles where starting capability is critical.

• Excellent cold starting ability

• Superior technology

• Efficient design

• Durable case

• Spill-proof and maintenance-free

• Can be prone to fast discharge when using cell phone chargers

• Some users report poor storage capabilities

3. Delphi BU9065 MaxStart – Best for Vibration Resistance

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The Delphi MaxStart series is a preferred brand for those who like to do a little off-roading. It has excellent vibration resistance and durability, which means it can withstand a few bumps and still keep going. This BCI group 65 battery is commonly used by popular manufacturers: Ford, Dodge, Mercury, Lincoln, and others. The battery has 75 amp hours, 750 cold-cranking amps, and a long reserve capacity of 150 minutes.

This battery made the list for many reasons. It is made with fortified posts, strong carry straps, and heavy-duty welds. Its vibration resistance is a perfect choice if you frequently travel roads that are dirt, gravel, or other rough pavement. It is also able to withstand the demands of today’s electronic-laden vehicles. Delphi batteries are made for long life and reliability when you need them the most.

• Good for cars and trucks loaded with accessories

• Excellent vibration resistance

• Twice the average life of conventional flooded batteries

• Some users report self-discharge when stored

4. Optima 8020-164 35 Starting Battery – Best for Performance Cars

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The Optima RedTop series will give you a strong starting ability and capability to produce extra power during fast Acceleration. That’s why car manufacturers such as Mazda, Nissan, and hobbyists who own hot rods like this battery. It offers 44 amp hours, has 720 cold-cranking amps, and a reserve capacity of 90 minutes. One of this battery’s key features is a quick recharge time. It can get back up to its maximum capacity with only a short burst from the alternator.

The unique SpiralCell design of this battery allows it to deliver its power quickly when you need it. It is especially helpful in extreme climates and cold temperatures. It has a reputation as a truck battery and as the power behind some of the top performance vehicles. Optima SLA batteries have an excellent reputation for long life and reliable performance.

• Trusted brand for high-performance vehicles

• Excellent cold cranking ability

• Fast recovery after discharge

• Known for its long life

• Durable case and posts

• Not made for deep-cycle use or vehicles with heavy electronics

5. Odyssey 94R-850 Performance Battery – Best for Storage

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Group 94R batteries are known for their ability to deliver excellent starting capability and their reliability in vehicles with start-stop technology. This battery of choice for manufacturers includes Mercedes, BMW, Volkswagen, and Audi. They are also used for marine purposes and boats. This is a high-performance battery with 80 amp hours and can produce an impressive 850 cold-cranking amps. It has a long reserve capacity of 150 minutes. It is a little higher priced than some of the other batteries on the list, but its performance justifies the extra expense.

This battery can withstand storage with an open circuit for up to two years. It also has a 100% recharge in as little as four to 6 hours. This makes it an excellent choice for those who must leave their car or boat in seasonal storage. According to the manufacturer, this battery has a 70% longer discharge cycle than other deep cycle batteries.

• Excellent choice for vehicles with on-board accessories

• Long storage life

• Powerful starting ability in cold weather

• Long overall battery life

• Maintains proper power levels over a long period.

• Unusual post design may not accept all connectors or jumper cables

6. ACDelco 49 Professional AGM – Best for Powerful Starts

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ACDelco BCI group 49 battery is the battery of choice for Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and BMW brands. It is also used for many other passenger cars, trucks, and vans. It has a powerful 95 amp-hour capacity, 900 cold-cranking amps, and 160 minutes of reserve capacity.

ACDelco makes durable batteries with superior design, a top of the line batteries for luxury-class vehicles and performance cars. One of the most notable features reviewers find is it has a low self-discharge rate when stored for as long as a month without being started. This makes it excellent for those who travel and park their vehicles in long-term storage. Overall, this battery receives excellent reviews for both starting ability and long life.

• Spill-Proof, maintenance free design

• Powerful starting ability

• Excellent for storage

• Reported life extends well beyond warranty

• Charges quickly

• Problems with ECU not registering a battery replacement in some cars

7. Delphi BU9047 MaxStart AGM Premium – Best for Harsh Environments

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Delphi batteries are corrosion-resistant, have excellent vibration resistance, and can withstand harsh environments. This battery from the MaxStart series is no exception. BCI group 47 batteries are used in cars, trucks, and vans made by manufacturers Kia, Volvo, Ford, Chevrolet, and BMW. This battery offers 60 amp-hours of power, 600 cold-cranking amps, and a reserve capacity of 100 minutes. The Delphi MaxStart is an affordable option, but it also offers excellent performance and is considered a good value.

The Delphi MaxStart series is a well-designed battery with strong welds and fortified posts, and excellent vibration resistance, making it perfect for those who like to take the road that is off the beaten path. It is excellent for areas where it may be exposed to saltwater, winter road salt, or other conditions that may cause other batteries to corrode.

• Known for its reliability and durability

• Common battery used by a wide range of manufacturers

• Venting system prevents gas buildup

• Maintenance-free and spill-proof design

• Fast discharge to low if lights accidentally left on

8. Optima Redtop 8004-003 34/78 SLI – Best Spill-Proof Design

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This starting battery is appropriate for both group 74 and group 34 battery replacements. Group 34 batteries are commonly used by manufacturers, such a Dodge, Ford, and Chevrolet. Group 78 batteries are used by Chevrolet, Buick, and many others. This battery has 800 cold-cranking amps and a 50 amp-hour capacity. Its reserve is 100 minutes. It also has dual SAE and GM posts.

This Optima battery life features an excellent spill-proof design and can be mounted in any position except upside down. They are vibration resistant and able to deliver maximum starting power in the harshest winter weather. It is the battery of choice for hot rods and other high-performance vehicles. Optima’s SpiralCell Technology creates an all-around excellent user experience and gets great reviews. It has power when you need it, and it also recharges quickly. The efficient design also allows it to have excellent storage capabilities, even under less-than-optimal conditions. Optima makes its batteries under strict manufacturing conditions to assure quality.

• Reliable starting performance

• Recommended for high-performance vehicles

• Efficient design

• Durable case and materials

• Accepts charge easily

• Not made for heavy deep-cycle use

9. Optima RedTop OPT8022-091 75/25 – Best for SUVs and Trucks

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Optima RedTop batteries have excellent starting capabilities and fast power delivery. BCI groups 75 and 25 are one of the most common batteries used by General Motors. A group 75 battery is typically used in Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, and many GMC models. Group 25 is the battery of choice for many Toyota, Dodge, and other cars and trucks. This one has 44 amp hours and a reserve capacity of 90 minutes. It has 700 cold-cranking amps, which is enough for starts in any condition.

Optima uses special technology that allows its batteries to have excellent conductivity. Its Lead plates are coated with lead oxide to increase the battery’s efficiency and reduce resistance. The result is a battery that can discharge quickly for engines that require extra power for starts. Optima’s unique manufacturing process assures superior vibration resistance and allows it to withstand extreme temperatures. Optima batteries have durable cases and a spill-proof design. It is a trusted brand and is an excellent choice if you have a car or truck that requires one of these two battery sizes.

• Reliable in cold weather

• Powerful starting capability

• Excellent design and durability

• Good for rough roads and off-roading

• Manufactured under strict quality standards

• Not the best for heavy electronics use

10. Northstar Pure Lead Group 24F NSB-AGM24f – Best General-Purpose Battery

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Northstar is a top battery manufacturer that uses state-of-the-art technology in every battery it makes. BCI group 24F batteries are the most common batteries for many types of applications. This is a deep cycle marine battery perfect for trolling motors, wheelchairs, and off-grid power systems. They are also used as a sump pump backup power and for many other purposes. This battery group is used in Honda, Toyota, and other small passenger cars and trucks. It has 876 amp-hour capacity, 840 cold-cranking amps, and a reserve of 160 minutes. Northstar is a brand that is a little more costly than others on the list, but its reputation makes it worth the extra expense.

This battery will withstand over 900 cycles at a 50% discharge depth, and it has a faster recharge than many other available batteries. This battery uses an exclusive plastic case material made for heat resistance and avoids cracking and breaking. It can withstand they have these forces of rough terrains and is a favorite choice for emergency vehicles. This is an excellent choice for vehicles that need to power a long list of onboard electronics. Northstar makes batteries that can withstand harsh conditions for many years of life and deliver extra power when you need it.

• Durable case and spill-proof design

• Excellent deep-cycle capability

• Fast recharge rate

• Low self-discharge

• Excellent vibration resistance

• Can drop below required load for starting in some vehicles

Car Battery Buyer’s Guide

Now you have our top picks for some of the most common batteries in different BCI groups. Some of them are best for starting, and some of them are perfect for deep-cycle use and electronics. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. Now, let’s explore some of the more common questions you might have about car and truck batteries.

What does group size mean on a car battery? Why is it important?

The group size on a battery is a standard that is set by the Battery Council International (BCI). These standards refer to the physical dimensions of the battery, post locations, common specifications, and battery group characteristics. Every group is made for a certain type of vehicle and purpose. The group can tell you information about the cold-cranking amps, size, and where the positive terminal is located. You must always make sure to get the right BCI group for your vehicle listed in the owner’s manual.

How to choose a battery holder and how do you use it?

A battery holder’s purpose is to keep your battery securely in place and make sure that it does not move around. It is important to get a battery holder designed for your battery tray and the battery group size you purchase. The battery tray holder typically has a bracket that fits over the top of the battery between the two posts and screws into holes in the battery holder. It is important to install the battery holder according to the manufacturer’s directions and ensure the battery doesn’t move when it is in place.

What are the different post types, and what are dual posts?

Batteries have different types of posts made to accept different types of terminal connectors. One of the most common types of battery posts found on cars is the universal, or U terminal. It is a tapered cylindrical post that allows for a round terminal connector, also identified as an SAE post. A JIS post is the same shape, only smaller.

Another type of terminal you may find on certain automobile batteries is the NB terminal. This type of terminal uses a nut and bolt. It is a square or rectangular piece of metal sticks up from the battery with a hole in the middle, so you can attach the nut and bolt of the connector. These are typically used for vehicles used on rough terrain to provide a secure connection that will not slip off. You will also sometimes find T8 threaded terminal.

These are the most common types of battery posts, but there are certainly many others. Some manufacturers, for example, General Motors, have their own exclusive battery post design. A dual post battery has two types of battery posts. These are usually a standard SAE and a specialty post. This allows you to use the battery on a wider range of vehicles.

What is battery capacity?

The battery capacity is a measure of the amount of energy stored in the battery. It is expressed as amp-hours. The amp hours are measured as the amount of time the battery can maintain the required voltage for its purposes. Battery capacity can be affected by temperatures and the amount of load placed on it.

What are the types of car battery warranties?

You may hear several different types of warranties and claims found on batteries. Here are some of the most common warranties and what they mean.

Limited Warranty

A limited warranty only covers their workmanship and materials used in the battery. A limited warranty will not apply for user errors, such as improper installation, improper storage, lack of maintenance, or exposure to conditions for which the battery was not designed.

Warranty for Commercial Vehicles

Battery warranties for commercial batteries are longer and have a certain mileage attached to them. For instance, they may be warranted for 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. They are limited warranties and do not cover abuse, but they also allow for a little more flexibility because of the frequency and use of commercial vehicles.

Free Replacement Period

The free replacement period usually begins at the time of purchasing a battery and extends for a certain amount of time. This is usually between two or three years from the time of purchase for most batteries. During this time, the battery manufacturer will replace the battery at no cost if it should fail due to manufacturing defects. Just as with a limited warranty, it will not cover failures caused by improper use and usage conditions.

Money Back Period

The money-back period is the time after the batteries purchase when the manufacturer or distributor will give you a full refund if your battery should fail. This type of warranty covers the manufacturer’s defects and will not cover the product’s misuse or abuse.

Conclusion

Now you have some of our top picks for batteries in different battery groups. Which battery is right for you depends on the type of vehicle and what is recommended by your auto manufacturer. These batteries have excellent cold-cranking amps and will be reliable starters in cold weather. This list represents top manufacturers that use advanced technology above and beyond many of the standard batteries found today. If you need a car battery replacement, these car batteries give you an excellent place to begin your search.

Eric Strong

Eric Strong works in the automotive repair industry more than 12 years. His work included repairing electrical systems in various vehicle systems. A hybrid electric car battery replacement experience expanded his understanding of automotive battery technology.