Buying a car battery means being thwarted with multiple numbers and even more brands and products. But fear not, because we will make this process a million times easier.
If you want a battery that’s going to support you through the cold, you need to compare Cold Cranking Amps to other products. But here’s the dilemma, the higher the amps, the more the price.
However, many other factors also go into it like construction, reserve power, warranty, etc. And to relieve you of all this thinking, we have listed the best car batteries for cold weather here. And this is the only review that you need to follow to know all about batteries.
Top 10 Best Car Battery for Cold Weather:
As this is a list of batteries that last in the cold, we might exclude some of your favorite ones if we deem them appropriate only for warmer conditions.
1. Optima Batteries 8002-002 34 RedTop Starting Battery
Optima is the most innovative brand when it comes to batteries. Their constant technological advancement shows that they know how to adapt and improve. And such is the case with their Redtop Batteries, which focus on cold weather specifically.
During very low temperatures, one of the reasons your car battery fails is due to the liquid in it freezing. And in order for it to work, you need a powerful start, that is, you need a high cranking ampere. And that’s exactly what this one has.
At 800 CCA rating, this Optima RedTop Battery has enough power to boost start your car even at a negative temperature. And that is only further proven with the 100-minute reserve power, making this just the perfect device for your car during the harsh weather.
Capacity isn’t the only thing this has going for itself; this has many other interesting features as well.
For one thing, this is extremely resistant to vibration. And if you’re unaware, vibration kills your battery faster as it makes the component within collide. Hence, the vibration resistance on this, which is almost 15 times the traditional devices, is a noteworthy attribute.
You must have heard how batteries need maintenance over time; well, not this one! No need to water it or do any kind of maintaining work on this as this runs smoothly on its own.
And unlike conventional batteries, you don’t have to worry about carefully placing it exactly to the spot. This gives you the space to mount it in any way you want.
Moreover, this high-quality battery is for all cars, SUVs, trucks. But its specialty is its high-power start, which you may not want in hot weather. It’s specifically for the cold terrains. And it doesn’t matter if you’re going off-road into the tough terrains, the powerful device with its solid technology and construction will have your back.
KEY FEATURES
- Powerful start with 800 cranking amps
- No need for maintenance
- Highly resistant to vibration
- Technology and construction appropriate for cold weather
- Can be mounted in various positions
- Compact design, specially designed for cold seasons
2. Optima Batteries 8014-045 D34/78 YellowTop Dual Purpose Battery
If the previous one was too strong for your tastes, this Optima YellowTop battery is the perfect product for you as it is more balanced. This car battery not only has a high cranking amp but also has deep cycle traits.
What does that mean for you? It means you can use it to start your vehicle while also running for a longer time overall. Not only that, if your battery is drained, it can also be charged and discharged as needed.
These are also great for cold weather as they have 750 cold-cranking amps, which is much higher than what you see in flooded batteries. But they are outstanding due to their durability.
You can run these cold-weather batteries for longer with constant power. This has a high reserve capacity as well. 120 minutes with a high cranking amp is almost the dream combination you look for in a battery. If you thought AGMs are amazing, then Optima’s Spiral cell tech even tops that.
The unique technology of this device makes it more expensive and better. What we love about this is you get the lifetime of a flooded battery whilst enjoying the benefits of AGM. This has a 3x longer life than the usual ones. AGMs weren’t known for their longevity, and Optima has changed that notion.
And of course, the best part is still that it needs no maintenance. Keeping an eye and living in fear of when to add water are aspects we are happy to leave behind.
KEY FEATURES
- Has both deep-cycle characteristics and cold cranking amp
- CCA rating of 750 with 2 hours of reserve capacity
- Powerful construction and long-lasting
- Unique Spiral cell technology
- Sturdy design ensures best value
3. NORTHSTAR Pure Lead Automotive Group 27F Battery NSB-AGM27F
For Northstar, simply building a good battery isn’t enough. They wanted to build the best car battery for freezing weather. And their cranking devices are of nothing less. Clearly, one of the most dominating brands in the industry, Northstar is known for its heavy and powerful batteries.
This isn’t a small and cute little device that will sit prettily on the front of your car. It packs a punch. With cold-cranking amps of 840A and pulse cranking amps of 1650A, it has the power to boost start your car during the coldest of times.
But where this is truly outstanding is it has 2 hours and 38 minutes of reserve capacity. While reserve capacity is a feature we seek more in batteries that are run in warmer conditions, having this along with the CCA is a bonus. As a result of it, we can tell this device is a lasting one.
It’s durable, not only owing to the features but only due to its construction. The pure lead AGM technology not only makes this a durable device but also very powerful and efficient. We appreciate its fast charging features. It’s a big device, but it charges quicker than your regular AGM batteries.
Speaking of size, don’t assume it won’t fit into your OEM space. It follows all the standards and will fit into your vehicle like it’s meant to. And on top of that, the housing on this is also strong and heat resistant. It’s properly sealed, but don’t worry, it has an AGM build, so no need to check water level or fear liquid leakage.
KEY FEATURES
- Charges faster than regular AGM
- Powerful, pure lead AGM technology
- High cranking amps and good reserve capacity
- Fits into OEM space and well-constructed
4. Odyssey 65-PC1750T Automotive and LTV Battery
What we love about Odyssey is they’re a brand that is always up for the challenges. They understand the days of high cranking amps, quick recovery, and deep cycle characteristics being separate batteries are gone.
Modern times require all these facilities in the same car battery, and Odyssey is even steps ahead of that to give you the complete package.
Their Group 65 battery is one of a kind because of the sheer power it boasts. With 950 CCA, this is way ahead when it comes to being dependable in the cold. On top of that, it also has extreme weather tolerance placing it among the good car batteries for cold weather.
And what we love about this is even with high cranking amps, this performs way better than an average deep cycle battery would. Be it longer service life, shelf life, or cycle life, this device tops the chart in all the features that make a deep cycle car battery special.
It has a service life of 3 to 10 years and a very decent warranty too. When buying batteries, warranties can tell you a lot about the product. Premium products have a longer warranty, and no other brand has better offers than Odyssey in this aspect, which shows how confident they are of their work.
One of the most time-saving features of this is that it takes about 4-6 hours to recharge back to 100%. And unlike devices that die when not used, this has a shelf life of 2 years if left unconnected.
KEY FEATURES
- Has very high CCA
- Longer service life and warranty
- Can withstand extreme weather
- It takes 4-6 hours to charge back to 100%
5. Delphi BU9065 MaxStart AGM Premium Automotive Battery
Delphi is a much-loved US brand because they have something for everyone. Their diverse collection of cold weather batteries goes to show how they understand the demanding needs of their customers and consequently adapt to those. And thus, enter one of the best-rated car batteries for cold weather!
If you’re tired of your OEM failing you in the winter, this Delphi is the perfect replacement and well-balanced to serve you justly. This is a battery with high chill cranking amps and even better reserve capacity.
But more than the individual features of this, we like the combined product, which comes for a more reasonable price that you can afford. Reasonably priced batteries are a bargain because they don’t have the safety net of a good warranty, and hence, many choose to go for more confirmed purchases.
It is exceedingly resistant to vibrations and has a noteworthy cycle life. The outstanding vibration resistance comes from its durable construction. Delphi is a brand that prides itself on producing corrosion-resistant housings. Their housings are among the best as they sealed and have venting systems too.
Accompanied by the Maxstart AGM battery tech, which gives it its high cranking amps, this device is a proper battery that has ticked all the boxes. And the best part is, in doing so, it hasn’t raised the price and kept it within reason.
KEY FEATURES
- Corrosion-resistant and sealed housing
- Power starts at 800CCA
- High vibration resistance
- Exact fit replacement to OEM battery models
6. ACDelco 94RAGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 94R Battery
ACDelco is the brand to go to when you’re looking for any car parts and accessories. They are one of the biggest brands that have been in the business for over a century. Using all their experience and innovation, they have made their 94R battery.
This is a car battery that’s going to last. It has a solid configuration with its enhanced cycle life and improved performance. Not only that, but the robust construction also allows increased acid circulation. As a result, the battery stays cool for an extended period of time.
However, what really proves this to be worthwhile is its maintenance-free use. As this uses absorbed glass mat technology, you don’t need to add water or place it carefully in fear of spillage and leakage. On top of that, you don’t need to be concerned with acid damage, either.
Furthermore, ACDelco Professional AGM Battery was designed to last, and hence, it has a solid housing and lasting battery. The leak-proof valve system also ensures your device is safe to use. And when it comes to power, this can deliver tat to. It has high-density plate oxides to make sure you get that power boost you need during the freezing temperatures.
One of the best parts of ACDelco is almost all of the components are manufactured by them, so you get the most authentic and original product that you can imagine. That is the case for their batteries, too, as all the components that go into are crafted specifically to enhance the car battery’s quality.
KEY FEATURES
- Enhanced performance owing to the robust construction
- Uses original parts and components for best results
- High power delivery to adapt to the cold
- Doesn’t require adding water
7. Optima Batteries 8004-003 34/78 RedTop Starting Battery
We keep coming back to Optima and their red tops because very few can actually compare to a device that has been specifically contoured to meet the shortcomings of freezing weather.
Their red top batteries aren’t only adept at starting smoothly during the winter, but the whole construction makes them highly tolerant to extreme weather, thus, placing them among the best-rated car batteries for cold weather.
Firstly, it weighs under 39 pounds, so unlike the heavy wielders, this one is much lighter and fits practically in any position. You can mount it however you like, as long as the terminal positions are placed correctly, you’re good to mount it as you prefer.
But don’t take away anything from its power just because it is slightly smaller. It has 800 CCA and is more powerful than regular batteries on any given day. The power is perfect for giving you a car that boosts on bad weather days. That’s exactly why it is known as the ultimate starting battery.
Now, like the previous ones, this, too, has the Optima spiral cell tech that is designed to give you that enhanced performance that you only get from their products. It prevents leaks and makes it stronger.
This one is also very quick to recharge and has double the life of the regular alternatives. That’s not all. This device is also extremely resistant to vibration, which explains the longer life.
KEY FEATURES
- Optima’s very own reliable SpiralCell technology
- Lightweight; weighs 38.8 pounds
- 800 battery CCA; get that power-driven starting burst
- Quick charging and doubled longevity
- Powerful battery can withstand extreme cold
8. Odyssey PC1200MJT Automotive and LTV Battery
We have been reviewing products that you will need during extreme weather conditions, but if you’re looking for a moderate solution that will serve well even during the warmer days, you need a more all-around device. And that’s exactly why we have included this Odyssey battery model.
It not only has the CCA but it is also conditioned to not overpower and heat up during the summer. This has a cold cranking amp of 540, which is still considerably high to give you that starting burst that you need during the winter.
But in doing so, it doesn’t cut down on any reliability points, as you can tell from their warranty standards. As we mentioned previously, this brand has some of the best warranties offered in the whole industry. This, in turn, goes to show how reliable and durable their products are.
This battery model has 3-10 years of service life and a 70% longer cycle life. And even though the cycle life is long, it’s still just as quick to recharge. You can get back to 100% charge in a matter of a few hours.
However, all these advantages come for a price. As you’d expect, their products charge a heftier price than their competitors. However, the reliability that you’re receiving, in turn, is worth the expenditure, in our opinion.
Finally, it was designed to not slip or leak, and it does so because of its professional construction. As a result, there is a strong vibration resistance in this as well. The housing design protects the car battery from impact and keeps it cool.
KEY FEATURES
- Chill cranking amps of 540
- Has longer cycle and service life
- Charges in quick time
- Non-slipping and vibration resistant
9. ACDelco 48AGM Professional AGM Automotive BCI Group 48 Battery
What we love about ACDelco is they make the machines and assemble them in the same place. Hence, when it comes to testing, laboratory, or field, they can do it much more efficiently, which is why their products are always of that more solidity and cost-effective.
They make some of the best devices for the most reasonable prices. And when you’re looking for the best-rated car batteries for cold weather that are budget-friendly, you can always count on them. This car battery of group 48 is among their best when it comes to charging and power.
And this has a heftier price tag in comparison to the traditional batteries, but if you compare to the AGM ones, this is certainly reasonable.
Moreover, what we love about this is, it’s a starting battery with a high life cycle. With 760 cold-cranking amps, this certainly has enough oomph in it to give you the power burst that you need to pull off from a cold start.
It was also constructed, keeping all the nuances in mind. The calcium lead positive grid allows for improved conductivity, while the ergonomic design promises no leakage.
Also, this is absolutely maintenance-free and will require no overseeing on your part. No leaking or spilling will occur within the solid framing of the car battery. Thanks to their advanced oxygen recombination process, this has no water loss and doesn’t need to be maintained.
KEY FEATURES
- Longer life expectancy with sealed AGM design
- Has significant starting burst power
- Doesn’t need to be maintained
- Optimum performance and extended battery life due to advanced mechanics
10. ACDelco ACDB24R Advantage AGM Automotive BCI Group 51 Battery
The last product on our list is anything but the least. This is a smaller battery that has the starting power and is also capable of giving you lasting performance. With battery terminals at the top, this is a very standard car battery for those looking for small powerhouses.
We recommend this to those of you who are looking for an affordable battery for your vehicle. Along with that, if cold starts are an issue only for a short time, then you might want a battery that doesn’t have exceedingly high amps that could sprout trouble when the weather is hotter.
For them, this device would be a perfect choice as it has enough power to start but can also stay cool during the warmer days. As this uses the much appreciated AGM battery technology, using this is easy and doesn’t require maintaining. You don’t need to add water or be wary of slips.
Another advantage of this is, it also doesn’t leak. The design is durable and protects the car battery from vibrating too much. The housing is also corrosion-resistant, making the device appropriate for a longer life cycle.
Moreover, the only possible concern that you may want to look into is whether it will fit your vehicle. This is a smaller device for smaller fitment and should be bought by making sure it mounts properly. Although no leakage or spillage will occur, you should be careful not to mount it improperly.
KEY FEATURES
- Corrosion-resistant build ensures reliable performance
- Leak proof and spill proof
- No need to check or add water
- Durable and long-lasting performance
Best Car Battery for Cold Weather Buying Guide
We often get questions about batteries with people wanting to know what kind of battery they should buy if buying batteries with higher cold cranking amps could damage their vehicle, or what is a good car battery for cold weather?
For you guys, we have devised this complete guide so that you get all your answers. Some of the aspects we have covered while reviewing the individual products. But those will be restated because we will be covering everything.
Buying car batteries can be confusing as you get all these numbers and codes thrown right at you. And the funny part is, you don’t need to be concerned about all the numbers and only need to know a few of them.
Also, this review is done, keeping in mind that your car supports 12V batteries. Most cars nowadays use 12V. Only retro cars, which are older than time, use 6V. So, you don’t need to worry about the correct voltage.
Fitment
Before you go checking into the specifications, you have to make sure that it properly fits your car. For this, you need to check the size and shape. You even need to check the height of the device is of a larger height. When the dimensions and proportions match, only then can you go to check the other features.
You can easily match it by checking the group number, more popularly known as the BCI number. This will tell you whether the car battery will fit in your car’s battery tray. Your BCI number also specifies the terminal positions. So, just matching it will make sure the battery is a perfect fit.
Terminal Positions
Terminal positions are either on the top or on the side. There isn’t much you can do if you find a desirable battery, but the battery terminals are positioned in an awkward place where your car can’t mount it properly. That is why the terminal position needs to be checked early on.
Not only that, the positive and negative ends should also be checked. There are fixed cables for each terminal. You can’t attach the wrong cable. So even if they are placed correctly, if the ends are switched, then you can’t use the car battery.
These are rather basic things that won’t trouble you if you choose products that are direct replacements. But still, it is better to check than ending up with a product that you can’t use later on.
If you are stuck on the road with a drained car battery, consider reading our guide on jump starting a car. A drained battery can be caused by leaving the headlight bulbs on overnight, running the dash cams 24/7, having a parasitic drainer in the vehicle, or as simple as having a broken stock speaker that needs to be replaced with a car speaker with sound quality.
Cold Cranking Amps
CCA is the most important specification if you’re looking for batteries that help with cold starts. And CCA is a measure of the power the battery can deliver at 0°F for 30 seconds. And the power, in turn, is shown in amps. So, the more the cold cranking amp, the higher the starting burst your car gets.
But it’s not like it will use all its power even when it isn’t needed. That is why higher CCA won’t damage your car.
So, you might be wondering what the average CCA should be? But we can’t answer that because it will depend on the region you’re residing in. There was a time when 550A was considered a very high CCA, but now we even see as high as 1000CCA.
Of course, the price increases as your CCA increases. But the general idea is if you live in a moderately cold area, you should go for CCA equal to your car’s engine displacement. And if you live in a really cold area, your CCA should be two amps for each cubic inch of engine displacement.
This is the usual measurement that is considered. But the trend is always going for as high as you can afford and fit.
Reserve Capacity
This is the other number you will see on batteries. And this one is also of importance. If you’re looking at CCAs, then you may not concern too much with reserve capacity. Reserve capacity is more important when you’re buying a battery for warmer zones.
And reserve capacity is the measure of the minutes the battery can offer in case your charging system fails. The actual measure of reserve capacity is the number of minutes the battery can power 25amps at 80°F. You don’t need to look too much into reserve capacity when buying a battery for cold temperatures.
Battery Types
When we say traditional batteries, we are actually referring to flooded batteries, as these have a mix of liquid electrolytes. And the liquid consistency of the batteries needs to be maintained over time.
You need to add water when the liquid drops. This means you need to be aware of the battery at all times. These are also more susceptible to environmental changes. The liquid might freeze in winter, and you might be unable to start your vehicle. But they are also cheaper.
- AGM is a relatively newer technology in which brands are regularly updating with their research and study. There are many advantages of AGM batteries
- AGM battery requires no maintenance and has a longer battery life.
- Also, they won’t leak like flooded batteries as the liquid in it isn’t sloshing. So, you won’t have to be worried about leakage.
- These are also resistant to vibration as they have better construction.
- They also recharge quickly compared to other batteries.
Vibration Resistance
You may buy the battery with the longest life expectancy and still end up with a dead battery sooner than expected. While the main cause of that is undercharging the battery, vibration is just right up there too.
Due to the car’s movements, car batteries vibrate a lot more, and this can kill it as the vibration causes a collision and cracks the cell connector and separator. You’re at more risk of cracking the plates if you’re off-road for a longer period.
So, if you do plan on being off-road, then you ought to buy a device that is constructed to face the tussle.
Warranty
A norm in the vehicle battery industry is better batteries have greater warranties. It can range anything from 1 year to 4 years. Premium batteries will have 4 years guarantee. But they won’t replace the battery in such cases and only fix it.
Therefore, make sure to check the warranty before purchasing it.
Final Thoughts
The final piece of advice when buying the best car batteries for cold weather: remember to consider what the general weather of the whole year is like.
With that, we think we have covered all the major products and topics and hope this was helpful.
Make sure to check every criterion we have laid down here in the battery buying guide so that you do not end up getting anything other than an authentic cold-weather battery for the car.
What Is The Difference Between A Maintenance-Free Battery And One That Needs To Be Refilled?
A maintenance-free battery is one of the many types of sealed lead-acid batteries that are pre-sealed and will not need to be refilled with water or electrolyte, which makes it easier for people who don’t want the hassle of topping off their car’s battery when needed.
This type also doesn’t have removable vent caps on top so unfortunately, you can’t add fresh air while charging due to these safety features in place but this does help reduce risk from overcharging as well as corrosion issues involving spilling liquid onto nearby road surfaces if your vehicle tips over too far.
How Long Does It Take To Install A New Car Battery?
Installation time will depend on many factors including whether it’s a straightforward installation that doesn’t require any cutting or modifications such as replacing an existing battery in working order with one of similar size and power output, and if you’re installing it by yourself without assistance from someone else like a mechanic for instance.
In this case, installation should take around 30 minutes or less depending on what type of tools are used during the process. However, some installations can be more complex than others so they could last up to two hours.
How Does A Car Battery Work?
A car battery is what makes the whole operation of your vehicle possible. It provides power to the starter motor, and it also supplies electrical energy to all of the other systems in your car including headlights, wipers, heating systems, etc.
The main job of a car battery is keeping enough charge on hand at any given time so that when you turn the key in the ignition switch or press down on the gas pedal, for instance, there’s sufficient voltage present to keep everything running smoothly without interruption for as long as necessary.
If it malfunctions or runs out of juice before an alternator can solve this problem by producing more electricity with its own internal generator then things will eventually start shutting off one after another.