Types of car batteries

In a previous article, we discussed several ways on how you can extend the life of your car battery, as it does serve as one of the most important components of your vehicle. It serves as the power source of your car’s starter as well as other essential features like your infotainment system, headlights, and other electronic equipment. Despite that, the time will still come when you’re going to need a replacement. 

Aside from familiarizing yourself with the different kinds of batteries, it is also important to choose the right brand when it’s already due for replacement. Ideally, you should go with the brand that originally came with your vehicle, however, if it’s not available in your area, then make sure to choose a battery that fits the specifications in your owner’s manual. So without further ado, here are the different types of car batteries for you to choose from.

A lead-acid battery is by far the lowest to maintain among the bunch. Unlike other batteries, this one is sealed, which means it cannot be serviced as it can only be replaced with another unit once it finally reaches the end of its life span. This type of battery works in short bursts that provide power to the starter motor.

Lead-acid batteries can be recharged too, however, do not overcharge it or plug it in for a short period of time without fully charging, as both of these practices could affect the longevity of your battery.

Pros:

• It's the most affordable car battery
• Powerful
• Easily rechargeable
• It has a high power output capability

Cons:

• It’s heavy
• Cannot be serviced since it’s sealed

Some modern cars nowadays come out of the showroom with an SLI battery. From the word itself, it powers all the electronics including the interior and exterior lights, infotainment system, and other technological features that are in need of power assistance. Scientifically speaking, an SLI battery is made up of 6 galvanic cells oriented in a series format which forms a system and provides 12V of electric potential. 

It is also worth noting that SLI batteries have a continuous cycle of charge and discharge whenever the vehicle is in use.

Pros:

• An SLI battery is effective in a car for 3 to 6 years.
• It can also be serviced and properly maintained as it is not sealed like a lea-acid battery.

Cons:

• SLI batteries have a very short charge cycle count. 

Aside from Mazda, other car manufacturers nowadays are equipping their vehicles with a start-stop system. What it does is it turns off the engine when at a stoplight in order to improve your car’s fuel economy. With that, some brands require a special power source for their start-stop system, and the Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery happens to be one of those qualified batteries.

Pros: 

• Low maintenance
• Fast charging
• High power output
• Advanced deep cycle capabilities

Cons:

• It costs more than your average battery

Lastly, is the lithium-ion battery which happens to be used on local PHEVs like the Mitsubishi Outlander and the Nissan LEAF. Compared to the other batteries the Li-ion battery significantly stores more charges. Regardless of the use, its life span remains long which should last by about 5 to 10 years. You can also purchase a lithium-ion battery for your car’s electrical system. These batteries are lighter compared to the standard lead-acid variety. 

Pros:

• It weighs less than other conventional car batteries of the same power.
• It lasts longer than other batteries.

Cons:

• It’s expensive
• It requires more care 
• Needs to warm up in order to reach peak energy potential