What To Look For When Purchasing A Car Battery
As much as we’d like to be able to run on the car battery that comes with our vehicle forever, it is just not going to happen. Inevitably, whether you purchase a new or used car, you will have to buy a new battery for it at least once over the course of your ownership. Buying the right battery is key to keeping your car running smoothly. Here’s what you should look for next time you’re in the market.
How Old Is the Battery?
It is not a good idea to buy a battery that was manufactured more than six months ago. You can find the manufacture date on the battery itself, but it is written in code:
- The letter indicates the month (A = January, B = February, etc.).
- The number indicates the year (12 = 2012, 13 = 2013, etc.).
What Is the Group Size of the Battery?
The group size describes the battery’s terminal orientation and dimensions. The group size should match the one on your old battery. If it does not, it is not likely to fit in or work with your vehicle. It’s always a good idea to note what is currently being used in your car before you shop for a new one. If possible, bring the old battery in with you.
What Are the Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)?
CCA measures the amperage your battery will produce at freezing (32°F/0°C) within 30 seconds. A higher CCA means the battery will start more reliably in cold weather. This number should not be confused with the cranking amp (CA) number, which is less accurate.
If you live in a warmer climate, CCA may not be a major concern. However, in colder regions, it’s one of the most important numbers to check before buying a new battery.
What Is the Reserve Capacity?
The reserve capacity is one of the most important aspects of your battery selection. This number tells you how long the battery can continue to run if your vehicle’s alternator fails. It is measured by the amount of time (in minutes) a car battery can maintain 25 amps while holding a steady voltage of at least 10.5 volts.
Battery Recycling Matters
The majority of lead-acid batteries are recycled since most states require it by law. That’s why you should always bring your old battery with you when buying a new one. Retailers like Batteries Inc. Orlando will recycle it properly for you.
Old batteries are sent to reclaimers who remove plastic parts and purify the lead. The reclaimed materials are then used to manufacture new batteries. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, today’s batteries contain anywhere from 60% to 80% recycled plastic and lead.
Electric and Hybrid Car Batteries
If you’re replacing a battery in an electric or hybrid car, the process is very different. In these vehicles, the battery is both the power source and the fuel tank. These batteries are more complex and often much more expensive to replace, requiring specialized expertise.
Get the Right Battery in Orlando
When it’s time to replace your battery, don’t leave it to chance. At Batteries Inc. Orlando, we stock new, reconditioned, and specialty batteries to fit cars, trucks, golf carts, RVs, boats, and more. Our team can help you choose the right option for your vehicle and recycle your old one responsibly.
