For every driver, beginner or not, having a smooth driving experience is always a priority. But it really is such a hassle to have broken or damaged parts, especially if it’s the battery. A car battery is probably among the most crucial vehicle parts that need proper care and maintenance. However, there are times that fixing and using an old one is not really a good idea.
When you are on the point that there’s no hope for using an old car battery, finding a replacement is the next step. But what if you do not know what look for? Simply follow this guide. Listed below are the top things you need to consider when buying one.
Battery Freshness
Battery freshness is usually indicated by a code on the battery, which consists of a letter and number. The letter stands for the month, and the number stands for the year of manufacture e.g. B/4 stands for February 2014. For this, you can also ask the seller in case you don’t know how to check such. So prior to buying one, always opt for a car battery that is not older than 6 months from the manufacturing date.
Reserve Capacity
This refers to the amount of time that the battery can run on its own power without the engine and before discharge. Having a high Reserve Capacity helps the car through different situations, such as a noncompliant engine, alternator failure and accidentally leaving lights on. That said, do not forget to check the battery’s reserve capacity prior to purchasing.
Maintenance
There are two types of batteries: those that need maintenance, and those that are maintenance-free. Maintenance-free batteries are sealed, and they have a liquid electrolyte running inside the battery and require no replacement. Non-sealed car batteries, on the other hand, need servicing every six months or so.
Warranty
Vehicle batteries come with warranties that guarantee replacement within a specified period of time. Keep in mind that the offered warranty is still valid for a long period of time prior to purchasing anything. You should also confirm whether the warranty offered is a full replacement warranty or a prorated warranty.
Brand
You need to consider the brand when choosing a vehicle battery. This is important because some brands are known to provide quality products, while others offer counterfeited products. Therefore, you need to research extensively to find the right one. Find a brand that has a good reputation in the market so you can guarantee to get quality batteries.
Battery size
Before you start looking for a new vehicle battery, you need to check your car’s manual to determine its correct battery size. You may end up making the wrong choice if you do not know the right battery size for your automobile. Surely, you don’t want to acquire a battery with an incorrect size that’ll deteriorate at a high rate.
Storage Capacity
All kinds of cars have a power requirement as per which the battery is chosen. This determines the storage capacity of the battery, which is marked in Ampere-hour or Ah. Higher Ah means that the battery has the capacity to sustain load for extended periods.
Right grade
It is necessary that the battery has a higher grade designed to last longer than others. But if you are going to be selling or trading it soon, select the minimum battery grade that will get you by in the meantime.
Minimum cold-cranking amps
In a cold setting, your car needs a particular number of amperage in order for it to start. If your battery doesn’t have sufficient amperage to turn over in cold weather, it won’t start, and you’ll be stranded. This is why before you buy a car battery, make sure that you check how many amps it requires, so you can avoid such circumstances.
Having a dead car battery is such a nuisance, especially if you’re someone who uses your car every single day. But with a lot of brands and types out there, it can really be confusing to find the right car battery replacement for your vehicle. But by taking things explored above into consideration, your search for the right battery replacement will be a whole lot easier and faster. Just make sure to find a reputable seller that offers quality car batteries for reasonable rates so you can have the peace of mind you need while on the road.
