#Shop optima batteries code#

Some flooded batteries are offered in North and South versions, each engineered for the specific challenges of the different climates. Be sure the tender is suitable for your car’s battery. If you must store a vehicle for weeks or longer, a battery tender can help ensure that the battery will be ready to start the vehicle when needed.

In addition to routine inspections, Barron advises car owners to keep their batteries fully charged and to avoid leaving their vehicle parked unused for long periods of time. AGM batteries will perform well in the heat, but the life span will be hampered due to high temperatures, says Jeff Barron, research lab manager for Interstate Batteries.īarron says that while some traditional batteries, known as “flooded,” can have their water replenished (with distilled water) to extend their service life, AGM batteries are sealed. H e adds, “We have seen that most of the AGM batteries excel in our heat-focused life testing, based on 15 weeks of continuous testing at over 160 degrees.”īut there are even challenges with AGM batteries. “While AGM batteries can also be affected by high heat, they tend to perform better overall than other sealed batteries in our tests.” “If you live in an area with extreme temperatures and are looking for a maintenance-free battery, consider getting an AGM,” Galeotafiore says. That’s when the battery has been significantly drained to 10.5 volts or below, such as when the lights are left on overnight. There’s one clear trend: Many of the highest-scoring are pricey absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries, known for having a long service life and being able to tolerate deep discharges. It also means you shouldn’t assume that buying the same battery model you’re replacing will get you the same results. This makes it impossible to make simple recommendations by brand or model. Among those that we have tested, there’s significant variation in which is the top performer from year to year, and from size to size. (Learn more about how we test car batteries here.)Ĭar batteries come in many sizes. This simulates the summer temperatures a battery can face in the engine bay. If you live in a hot region or have particular concerns about summer performance, pay special attention to the battery life score in our ratings.īattery life is measured by repeatedly discharging and recharging at a test temperature above 167° F for 15 weeks or until performance drops to unacceptable levels. (The letter I is skipped.) When it comes time to replace your battery, buy one that’s less than 6 months old-preferably 3 months or newer.Ĭonsumer Reports tests 150 batteries in total each year in its lab (including five examples of each rated model), charging and discharging them thousands of times to find out how long they’ll last. A is for January, B is for February, and so on.

#Shop optima batteries code#

A battery made in July 2023 will have a numeric code of 7/23 or an alphanumeric code of G3 or G-3. The manufacture date can be found on a sticker affixed to the top or side. The battery’s age is also a strong indicator that it’s time to consider a replacement.

Doing so tests its ability to hold voltage while being used, and the results will let you know when it’s time to start shopping. Galeotafiore recommends having your car battery load tested annually after it’s 2 years old if you live in a warmer climate or after it’s 4 years old if you live in a colder climate. Fortunately, most batteries no longer require checking electrolyte levels, saving a step. AAA says that excessive vibration can shorten battery life. Inspections should be part of an owner’s routine maintenance, but it’s especially important to check before taking a long road trip.ĭuring an inspection, the mechanic should check the battery’s charge, the condition of the terminals, and how securely the battery is mounted in the engine bay. Car batteries typically last three to five years, according to AAA, spanning from 58 months or more in the furthest northern regions of the U.S., down to less than 41 months in the most southern regions.