I spend a little over $200 on batteries and they only seem to last a couple years. I do live in Canada where winters are cold but is it worth getting a more expensive battery? Thanks.
@bluegrassdan
Hi. I don't know if this will answer your question but I live in MA and with the Honda Accord I had, I got the biggest battery that would fit. I was told by many people that getting a huge battery for a small engine isn't a bad idea because the car can charge up the battery but also if a cell or something goes bad, it would still start the engine and plus you wouldn't be straining the battery. They also said that if my alternator or belt failed, the bigger battery would allow me to travel further than the OEM size or if I needed to leave my flashers or lights or other accessories on without the engine running, they would stay on longer with the bigger battery. I put a 850 CC amp battery in my Honda and had no battery issues until I traded it in for something bigger and with AWD.
Harsh climates are very hard on batteries (no matter the type). AGM batteries generally do better in the cold than Lead Acids. But my advice would be is find the best priced battery with the longest warranty.
Oh, I personally currently run Diehard Platinum AGM batteries in my truck. They were still made in the USA when I bought them (unlike Optima, I don't recommend Optima).
Here is Scotty's video on choosing a battery.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eb244DpjGY&ab_channel=ScottyKilmer
Another tip would be to drive frequently so that the alternator can keep the battery charged up. You can also buy a battery that has a higher CCA rating. I believe scotty said that he did that in one of his videos.
Hello,
Depending on your type of vehicle you could look at replacing the current battery with an AGM type battery, They operate better at lower temperatures, See your local garage or a good auto store for details.
I've included a link for your information.
All the Best.
Walmart batteries last me 5 years.
Always buy the more powerful version.
A good tip to keeping your battery lasting longer besides driving is to invest in a trickle/float charger. Make sure you charge it up with a decent half hour drive minimum without using a lot of electrical accessories, then when you park it if you have access to a 120v outlet get a trickle charger such as a BatteryTender or a simple one from harbour frieght works for mine. Plug it in but connect the battery first. Definitely keeps your battery in tip top shape. Batterys hate deep discharges. Also spray terminal protector on the posts once a year or put some petroleum jelly on them to keep them from sulfating.