5 Best Car Batteries in Canada Worth the Investment | Buyer’s Guide
Having problems starting your car or have you stayed a while before replacing your car battery? It's time you shopped for a new one. This guide takes you through the nitty-gritty of purchasing a long-lasting car battery. You’ll learn how car batteries work, what to look for when shopping for one, what types of batteries exist and their differentiating features. We’ll also cover the TOP 5 Best Car Batteries on the market.
What You Will Learn from This Guide:
Auto parts purchases can be intimidating for the average buyer who has little or no knowledge about vehicles. It is even more daunting when you need to purchase sensitive auto parts like car batteries. It is a significant investment and a critical part of a vehicle hence, the need to make an informed decision.
How it Works
Automotive batteries supply electrical current to a number of components to enable them to start the car, play music, and light up, among other functions. They achieve this by converting chemical energy into electrical energy. The electrolyte or acid reacts with the lead plates in the battery to generate electricity that powers up the engine when driving and result in the carrying out of other functions. The cells have a predetermined useful life hence, the need to be replaced at some point. Here are some types of car batteries you will find in automotive shops.
Types of Car Batteries
SLI Car Batteries
Most car batteries feature this construction- the start, lighting and ignition batteries. It means that they are designed to power the lights, ignition, radio, and other functions. SLIs usually have a short charging cycle and can only provide power in short bursts of time.
Valve-Regulated Lead Acid Batteries
They are commonly referred to as VRLA batteries and are ideal for car owners looking for low maintenance batteries. This is because VLRA batteries have sealed safety valves that prevent any loss of fluid.
They come in two designs- Gel and AGM (absorbent glass) batteries.
Gel cells use silicon plates to form a thick putty-like gel thus, also known as silicone batteries.
AGM batteries, on the other hand, have fiberglass mesh between the plates that acts as the electrolyte.
VRLA batteries are used in large mobile electrical devices and off-grid power systems where a large amount of power is required at a low cost.
Flooded Batteries
They are also called wet cell batteries as the plates remain suspended in an electrolyte that contains water, lead, and sulfuric acid.
Flooded batteries are more affordable than other types of batteries, but they don't last as long as VLRA batteries.
The electrolyte in the cell lasts until the battery expires, so the user does not need to keep on topping it up.
Deep Cycle Batteries
This kind generates power for a long time hence, ideal for small boats, golf carts, and electric vehicles.
They have thicker plates than their counterparts, which increases their capacity.
Deep cycle batteries are not the best for cars because of the high discharge rate.
Lithium-Ion Battery
The battery is specially designed for electric and hybrid vehicles as it is light and stores more energy.
Porsche 911 2010 model is an example of a car that uses the lithium-ion battery.
The main drawback of this battery is that it has a short lifespan.
What to Look for when Buying
- Reserve Capacity
It is the amount of time the battery can continuously supply the minimum voltage required to run the vehicle when the fan belt or car alternator fails. A cell with a good RC rating should enable the car to run on the battery alone when the alternator is not working. It acts as the vehicle's emergency mode that helps you to continue driving the car instead of getting stuck. The RC is displayed in the form of minutes on the product information.
- Sealed vs. Non-Sealed Batteries
Sealed batteries don't require lots of maintenance compared to non-sealed batteries. However, they are not the best for warm climates as it is difficult to add water to cool them. Non-sealed batteries have caps that allow motorists to add water hence, ideal for places that experience high temperatures.
- The Power Requirement
It is measured in Cranking Amps (CA) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). Cranking Amps refers to the amount of energy needed to start a car at 32 degrees Fahrenheit while Cold Cranking Amps is the battery's ability to start a vehicle at zero degrees. As such, CCA batteries are ideal for cold climates and CA for hot places.
- The Age of the Battery
It is displayed in the form of a code that has a number and a letter. The figure represents the year of manufacture, and the letter represents the month.
As such, if the battery is labeled C/17, it was manufactured on March 2017.
Avoid buying batteries that are older than six months from the date of manufacture.
- The Warranty
Choose a battery with the longest replacement period. The warranty period is labeled on a prorated basis and a free replacement period.
For example, if the battery has a 24/48 code, it means that the free replacement period is 24 months and the prorated warranty lasts 84 months.
The further discussion address the TOP 5 Best Car Batteries to make choosing one less of a hassle.
TOP 5 Best Car Batteries
ACDelco ACDB24R Advantage AGM Automotive BCI Group 51 Battery
This AGM-powered battery is entirely spill-free, and you don't need to add water. It uses a valve-regulated recombinant feature that ensures it lasts long, i.e., up to three times the life cycle of regular car batteries.
The ACDelco ACDB24R Car battery is also fitted with negative and positive fully framed power path plates that generate higher cranking amps and reduced self-discharge rates for convenient storage.
Its leaf-proof valve system prolongs life and enhances safety.
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ACDelco 94RAGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 94R Battery
The ACDelco 94RAGM Battery has a professional-grade build designed for advanced diesel engines.
It has a CCA rating of 800 to deliver high-quality performance irrespective of the weather. Its AGM sealed design gives it a durable outer structure that ensures sustainability while making it an efficient shield against vibration and shock.
The use of calcium lead plates maximizes conductivity while reducing resistance.
The ACDelco 94RAGM Battery is perfect for sports cars and heavy trucks.
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DieHard 38217 Advanced Gold AGM Battery - Group 49
DieHard AGM battery is ideal for trucks, RV, sea vehicles, and other recreational cars.
Its internal components are coated with a temperature-resistant cover and are heat-sealed. As such, the battery can survive extreme weather conditions and deliver optimal performance.
The cell also has a vibration protection feature that allows the owner to use it on a sports watercraft and off-road vehicles.
Compared to the previous model (50634), the 38217 Diehard battery delivers two times the cycle life.
And, with its fully coated positive and negative plates, you are less likely to experience electrical shorts.
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Optima Batteries 8002-002 34 RedTop Starting Battery
Optima's red top designs are known to deliver exceptional cranking abilities in extreme weather conditions.
The Optima 8002-002 battery does not disappoint with its 800 amp rating, which provides optimal starting power in bad weather. It is fifteen times more resistant to vibration, and its SpiralCell technology enhances endurance.
The spiral technology feature ensures the battery is fitted with spiral wound cells that have lead plates layered with lead oxide. As a result, the plates have precision controlled batteries that tolerate extreme temperature and humidity.
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Odyssey 34/78-PC1500DT Automotive and LTV Battery
The battery is designed to deliver optimal performance for the modern vehicle. With its deep cycling capability, up to 850 CCA, and 1500 PHCA, the Odyssey 34/78 battery can withstand any extreme weather.
The plates are made of pure lead hence, pack more resistance.
And, with up to 400 cycles, the battery delivers exceptional power compared to conventional batteries.
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Best-Selling Car Batteries in Canada | Comparison Table
Most Popular
Optima Batteries 8014-045 D34/78 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
- 12-Volt, 750 Cold Cranking Amps, Size: 10" x 6 7/8" x 7 13/16" tall, Weight: 43.5 pounds, Dual SAE & GM Post
- Reserve capacity of 120 minutes for constant performance
- Optimal starting power even in bad weather. Case Material: Polypropylene
- Fifteen times more resistant to vibration for durability
- This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
Products with 5 star rating
Other Popular
ODYSSEY PC925 Automotive and LTV Battery
- Cold Crank Amp (CCA)- 330
- Better warranty: Limited 3 and 4 year full replacement warranty - not pro rata
- Longer service life: With 3-10 years of service life, ODYSSEY batteries save consumers time, money, and aggravation
- Longer cycle life: 70 percentage longer cycle life compared to conventional deep cycle batteries, up to 400 cycles at 80 percentage depth of discharge- high stable voltage for longer periods of time
- Faster recharge: The highest recharge efficiency of any sealed lead battery on the market, capable of 100 percentage recharge in 4 - 6 hours.Reserve Capacity:52 minutes
Optima Batteries 8003-151 34R RedTop Starting Battery
- 12-Volt, 800 Cold Cranking Amps, Size: 10" x 6 7/8" x 7 13/16" tall, Weight: 37.9 pounds, SAE Post
- Reserve capacity of 100 minutes for constant performance
- Optimal starting power even in bad weather
- Fifteen times more resistant to vibration for durability
- This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
Optima Batteries 8071-167 D51 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
- 12-Volt, 450 Cold Cranking Amps, Size: 9 5/16" x 5 1/16" x 8 15/16" tall, Weight: 26 pounds, SAE Post
- Reserve capacity of 66 minutes for constant performance
- Optimal starting power even in bad weather
- Fifteen times more resistant to vibration for durability
- This item is not for sale in Catalina Island
Odyssey PC680MJT Automotive and LTV Battery
- Cold Crank Amp (CCA) - 170
- Better warranty: Limited 3 and 4 year full replacement warranty - not pro rata
- Longer service life: With 3-10 years of service life, ODYSSEY batteries save consumers time, money, and aggravation
- Longer cycle life: 70 percentage longer cycle life compared to conventional deep cycle batteries, up to 400 cycles at 80 percentage depth of discharge- high stable voltage for longer periods of time
- Faster recharge: The highest recharge efficiency of any sealed lead battery on the market, capable of 100 percentage recharge in 4 - 6 hours
- Mounting flexibility: Non-spillable design
Delphi BU9094R MaxStart AGM Premium Automotive Battery, Group Size 94R (Reverse Terminal)
- Extended cold cranking amps delivery means more power for today's demanding electronics
- Group 94R (reverse terminal) battery with 800 CCA (cold cranking amps) and 140 R. C. (reverse capacity)
- 20x the vibration resistance of conventional batteries
- Superior vibration resistance, optimized component compression , and fortified posts, straps and welds
- Superior corrosion resistance sealed housing with manifold venting system
FAQs
How to Get the Right Fit?
It is imperative to choose the right size of car batteries as they have different sizes. The battery should fit securely while generating ample power for the vehicle. The manufacturer's manual should help you find the right size.
Between Lead Acid, AGM, and Gel car batteries, which is the best?
It depends on the application. Gel cell and AGM batteries do not degrade as hydrogen corrosion is reduced significantly. However, Gel batteries are ideal for deep cycles applications and tend to last long in hot weather while AGM batteries are great for long life cycles. Lead acid batteries comprise SLI and deep cycle batteries. The latter is perfect for long-term delivery of energy while the former is ideal for generating quick bursts of power for a short time.
How can I Diagnose a Dead Car Battery?
These signs show that your battery is dead:
- The engine cranks without starting
- Difficulty when cold cranking
- Starts and stops unexpectedly
- Low level of fluid
- Bloated battery case and leaks
How do I Charge my Battery?
- Look for a suitable battery charger. For example, if your car has an AGM battery, use a smart charger
- Clean the terminals
- Disconnect the battery (start with the negative terminal to avoid shock)
- Place it on a flat surface and connect it to the charger (match the positive and negative terminal)
- Connect the charger to the power outlet
Do Car Batteries Need Maintenance?
Yes, they do. Here are some maintenance tips:
- Check the level of the fluid (should cover the plates)
- Replace damaged terminals
- Avoid under or over-charging the battery
- Don't leave the lights on for extended period if the engine is not running
- Clean the battery case
- Do not jump-start the battery when it is flat
How Do I Recycle my Old Battery?
Your retailer should help you dispose of it appropriately. But, you can also use an old battery to get a refund when buying a new car battery.
Can a Car Battery be Overcharged?
Yes, when it is charged beyond the required charging time. Usually, it causes it to die, and in extreme scenarios, leads to a fire. Flammable hydrogen builds up in the sealed cells of the battery, which makes the casing to swell. An electrical spark can ignite the gas, leading to an explosion.
Can a Car Battery Recharge Itself?
No, it can't. However, the alternator can start the vehicle and generate ample power for the electric components in the car when the engine has been turned off.
Can a Car Battery Die while Driving?
A car battery may stop running when driving when your vehicle has a faulty alternator. Usually, the process is slow and progressive as the lights get dim, the fan runs slow, the spark plugs stop running, and the car eventually stops.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- They can be stored for prolonged periods
- They are reliable
Cons:
- Environmental concerns
- Frequent corrosion if you are using lead acid batteries
- Increased resistance can develop sulfation
- Batteries emit acid fumes that are toxic to humans
Tips & Life Hacks
You can easily light a fire using the car battery terminals. You can use steel wool or a small piece of wood, connect it to the negative terminal and engage the positive terminal to create a fire. It is a great hack when lost and want to light a fire.
You can also use the car battery to light up a room using a headlight. Plug the headlight wires to the positive and negative car battery terminals to light it. The light is pretty bright and illuminates a room in the event of a power outage.
Conclusion
With this guide, you are confident to purchase the right car battery for your vehicle. Keep in mind that the type of vehicle affects the kind of battery you will buy. If you are looking for a battery that will help your car start, then the Optima Batteries 8002-002 34 RedTop Starting Battery is perfect. However, if you are looking for one with a long life cycle, AGM batteries are great alternatives.
