Here at Hub City Ford, we know a thing or two about car batteries. At our Ford car dealership in Lafayette, we help car owners find the right batteries to fit their vehicles. And there are some things that you should know about car batteries before you go about trying to select one on your own.
Before you even rush out to get a new battery, check all of the connections to ensure that they are all secure and that no corrosion could be impairing their connectivity. If that all checks out, here are some things to consider when choosing a new battery for your vehicle.
Battery Type
These days, most vehicles use either the traditional lead-acid battery or an absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery. However, nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries or lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are used in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Lead-acid batteries are cheaper than AGMs, but they typically don't last as long and might not hold a charge well after being drained. AGMs are designed to handle higher power demands from all the electronics that you plug in, but they are, on average, about 40% more expensive than lead-acid batteries.
Cranking Amps and Cold Cranking Amps
Cranking amps and cold cranking amps can tell you how your battery is doing. Cold-cranking amps measure the battery's starting power in cold temperatures and, therefore, are helpful for those living in cooler climates. Cranking amps measure starting power in warmer temperatures.
You should never buy a battery with lower amps than what's recommended in the owner's manual. The higher the amps, the more starting power your battery has.
The Reserve Capacity
Reserve capacity refers to how long your battery takes to deliver the maximum amount of amperage before fully discharging. Your battery has more power to get through things like lights being left on while you're shopping and the higher it's minute rating.
Car Battery Warranties
Battery warranties vary by manufacturer. Some offer prorated warranties (which mean you only get partial reimbursement) while others offer a free replacement for the duration of the warranties life. Be sure to read the fine print before buying a battery so you know exactly what you are getting.
Contact Your Ford Car Dealership Lafayette
Let us replace that dead or dying battery for you! As a preferred Ford car dealership in Lafayette, Hub City Ford can help you get a battery that is just the right fit.
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