Toyota RAV4 2010 137,000 miles automatic 4 cylinder
what is the best brand battery should I get and I live in Wisconsin how high can I go on the cold cranking number (600 or 800)?
Wisconsin's cold weather is very hard on batteries. AGM batteries generally do better is cold climates than lead acids. I like the Diehard platinum AGM (is still made in USA to my knowledge). Interstate batteries also have a good reputation. Optima batteries are now made in Mexico and their quality is hit and miss. But the main thing I would recommend is find the battery with the best warranty for the best money.
@_aragorn_7 thank you very much
As a car audio install nut I agree with
Good luck!
@ambush
Thank you very much
@ambush
Agree on Optima... I've heard since they moved manufacturing to Mexico, the lifetime of their batteries has decreased, and early failures has increased, and yet they still charge a premium for the things as if they were still made in the US. Stay clear of Optima.
I believe nearly all batteries are made by the same three manufacturers: East Penn, Johnson Controls, and Exide. I think that the branding probably means less than it used to because of this fact. I prefer JC batteries because they still include water caps for refilling and may last longer if you maintain the water level, whereas East Penn batteries are sealed. I've had good luck with the Duralast brand, but I also noticed that Advance Auto is now selling Die Hard and I may try one of theirs again. For the cheaper batteries, Wal Mart Everstarts are excellent, but they are the sealed type, made by East Penn. If you have a high-powered sound system you can go with one of the more exotic brands advertised on the Interwebs, but be prepared to pay for it.
My opinion on CCA is go for the highest you can find for the battery that fits your car, especially since you live in a cold climate. Also, pay attention to the type of battery recommended for your Rav 4... if it either recommends a flooded battery or Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) stick with the recommendation because your charging system is tuned specifically for that type of battery. Good luck!
I am from the great white north and it gets to -30 and -40 celcius here and I've always had regular batteries and never had any problems or issues starting and they lasted for years. It is very important to clean them though. A dirty battery is no good.
@suzuki thank you very much I appreciate your time to answer.
I am also in Wisconsin. Right now I like going to Orilley's and buy the biggest best battery they have for your vehicle. They come with a three year full replacement and will put it in for you. Stay away from the Gel battery get the traditional battery. 725 seems to be the CCA for the size battery you want. Many people do like the Interstate battery and is all over WI. WSE is spot on that a few companies make all batteries and they slap their name on them. Now is a great time to be buying as there are a lot of sales with winter coming.
Hope this helps a bit
