Car batteries wear out over time. When you’re ready to replace your battery, it’s important to purchase one that fits your car and the way you drive. Learn more about the best Honda Accord batteries to know what type of battery you should invest in. Here are five important elements to consider when buying a new car battery.
What Is Your Car’s Battery Group Size?
Unlike engine oil, car batteries have to fit in a specific position. Most Honda cars use a Size 35 battery, but you can check your car’s manual to make sure. If you don’t have access to the manual, go online to find a reference guide.
What Brand Should You Buy?
Your car’s manual may also suggest a particular battery brand. If you can’t afford that brand, look to the specifications for the battery to find an alternative brand. It’s not always wise to go with a cheap brand to save money. Modern cars rely on batteries for electronics and accessories, not just to start the engine.
How Old Is the Battery?
When you purchase a new car battery, you should check the manufacturer’s date. Look for a two-digit alphanumeric code. The letter represents the month the battery was manufactured. A is for January, B is for February, C is for March through L for December. The number represents the year, 0 to 9 for the current decade. The code K7 would indicate the battery was manufactured in November 2017. In 2020, the numbers reset at 0 for the current year.
What Is the Battery’s Reserve Capacity?
The reserve capacity is how long in minutes the battery can run your car if the alternator fails. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended RC range for your make and model. Go with the minimum level recommended by the manufacturer. RC is like an emergency road kit just in case.
Do You Understand the Battery’s CCA Rating?
In cold weather, your battery may need more power to start your car because of thickening engine oil. The cold-cranking amp rating is that measure of electrical power at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a colder climate, you might want to consider purchasing a battery with a higher CCA rating. Don’t confuse CCA with cranking amps (CA). The CA rating measures the electrical power at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The CA rating will be higher than a CCA rating. If you live in a warm climate, you should use the recommended CCA rating from the owner’s manual.
Check the Battery Warranty
Always buy a new car battery for your vehicle because installing a used battery can be hazardous. Maintain your battery to make it last longer. Check your battery’s power every year to know when it’s depleting. Replace it before it fails. Before purchasing your battery, make sure to get one with a good warranty, one that lasts at least two years or more.
Whether you want to learn how to replace brake pads or need to buy a new battery, get more information about parts for your vehicle when you shop with an aftermarket car parts company.
