Are you considering replacing your battery? If so, this information will help you make an informed decision.
Here are top 5 features you should pay attention to when selecting a battery:
- Battery type: When choosing a new battery, you should consult the user manual for your vehicle and check the specifications of the previous battery (data specified on the label) to determine the battery’s type, because an incorrect selection will likely cause issues with the starter, alternator and electronics in your vehicle. There are five types of batteries used in vehicles: calcium, hybrid, gel, AGM, and EFB.
- Capacity: installing a battery with a lower energy capacity than the battery to be replaced is unacceptable. At the same time, the capacity of the new battery must not exceed the value specified in the vehicle manual by more than 5%. It is crucial to be aware of this specification, as a significant increase in capacity may lead to issues with the electrical system or overheating of the starter.
- Polarity: there are two types of battery terminal layouts – ‘left hand positive’ (LHP) and ‘right hand positive’ (RHP). It is easy to determine if you turn the battery to face you: if the positive terminal is on the left, then it’s a left hand positive (LHP) battery, and if the positive terminal is on the right, then it’s a right hand positive (RHP) battery. In vehicles manufactured in CIS countries, LHP batteries are typically used, while European manufacturers tend to use RHP batteries.
4. Starting current: bear in mind that for normal operation of the starter, the starting current figure should not be lower than that of the previous battery. This will help protect the vehicle from starting problems in case of temperature fluctuations or if the plugs are not replaced in a timely manner. If the starting current of the previous battery is 450 A, we recommend purchasing a battery with a capacity in the range of 450-800 A.
5. Date of manufacture: when purchasing a battery, pay attention to the date of manufacture as well as the energy reserve. This can be checked at the retailer’s premises when the battery is being sold. Make sure you keep the warranty card. In the event of a warranty claim, the battery is subject to review only if the buyer has the warranty card.
The service life of a battery and how promptly the engine is started depend on compliance with the conditions of battery operation. Thus, it is important to select the right battery from the variety available. Consider all the points mentioned above, and the operation of your vehicle will not be a problem.
