Even though car batteries last for a very long time, it comes a time when you will need to replace it with a new one, for optimal performance. In this article, we want to discuss the important considerations that should guide your shopping. Remember, not just any replacement battery will be ideal for your car.
The first important thing you will need to do is to check the battery itself and the car’s wiring system. It is wrong to assume that the battery is dead. We have car diagnostic equipment that will tell where the problem is. It could be an electrical short that is draining the battery, or you have a dead starter. Once you have ruled out all these possibilities, you can now confidently go for a new battery. Here are important considerations that should inform your purchase decision.
Size of the Battery
There are different battery sizes, and when replacing yours, make sure it is the right size that will perfectly fit in the battery tray. A smaller battery or larger one will mean a loose tightening and vibrations when driving. Wor
se is that it can topple over and get physical damage or even damage other car components.
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)
Cold Cranking Amperes (CCA) refers to the power a car battery can deliver at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in cold regions, you need to consider a battery with the highest CCA. This is because the cold temperature makes the engine and transmission oil thick and also dips the battery’s CCA.
Reserve Capacity (RC)
Reserve Capacity is the total time the battery can put up maximum amperage before discharging. Buy a battery with the highest RC, especially if you live in cold regions. High RC will also come in handy when you have a stubborn engine or alternator failure. You will also crank up the engine easily even after forgetting the lights on.
The above three are the most important considerations when buying a car battery. Besides these factors, also make sure you buy from a reputable battery brand with an extended warranty, just in case it develops problems when using it. Read customer reviews also and find out what other buyers are saying about a particular battery model.
