New Car Battery Guide & Special

A dependable battery is essential not only to prevent needing an inconvenient jump start but also to prevent the alternator from overworking. When a new battery is needed, car owners want to find an affordable option that will be reliable and long-lasting- the experts of Best Auto in Longmont have provided some helpful tips for deciding on a new car battery.

Guide to Choosing a New Car Battery

Amperage Ratings

• Cranking Amps (CA): amperage measured at 32F
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This is the most significant measurement, and should carry the most weight when comparing factors for choosing the best battery. It rates how much amperage is sustained for 30 seconds at 0F, without going below 7.2 volts.
• Reserve Capacity (RC): duration 25 amps is held at or above 10.5 volts
• Amp Hour (AH): The amperage capacity, usually just provided for deep-cycle batteries. (Deep-cycle batteries are used in boats, golf carts and show cars.)

Battery Types

Lead Acid:

• Flooded: Within this most common type of lead acid design, most are sealed and require no maintenance but some, especially in classic cars, are conventional and need to be refilled occasionally.
• Gel: Instead of using water for the electrolyte base like in flooded types, gel batteries use a thickened gel which helps keep the plates covered and stop a leak should the exterior break.
• AGM: Absorbed Glass Mat batteries are the most efficient, separating the electrolyte with fiberglass to keep it in constant contact with the lead plates- even upside down!

NAPA’s Legend series employs the superior AGM design to resist freezing longer and provide a longer lifespan than conventional flooded or gel batteries.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMh): Used in hybrid vehicles, these batteries charge fast but also discharge fast when the car is idle. Composed of a hydrogen-absorbing alloy and nickel oxyhydride for the negative and positive sides.

Lithium Ion (Li): More efficient than NiMh batteries and capable of holding longer static charges, lithium batteries are used in high performance vehicles but are not suitable where the temperatures drop below freezing.

Best Auto of Longmont is running a special on qualifying NAPA batteries now through February- buy a high-performing new car battery and get a $20 Visa Prepaid Card! Don’t get stranded in freezing temperatures this winter- come in to get your battery tested and save on a new one if needed.