Best Car Battery Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to Powering Your Ride

Best Car Battery Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to Powering Your Ride cars.truckstrend.com

In 2017, just as today, a car battery was the unsung hero of your vehicle, providing the crucial jolt needed to start your engine and powering all essential electrical components when the engine is off. A failing battery could quickly turn a routine commute into a roadside headache, making the choice of a reliable power source paramount. For vehicle owners in 2017, selecting the "best" car battery wasn’t just about finding the cheapest option; it was about investing in dependability, performance, and longevity.

This comprehensive guide delves into the landscape of car batteries as it stood in 2017, highlighting the top brands that earned their reputation for quality and performance. We’ll explore the key specifications that mattered, the leading contenders in the market, essential considerations for making an informed purchase, and practical advice to ensure your battery served you well. Whether you were replacing an aging unit or upgrading for better performance, understanding the best options available in 2017 was key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly.

Best Car Battery Brands 2017: A Comprehensive Guide to Powering Your Ride

Understanding Car Batteries: Key Specifications to Look For (in 2017 Context)

Before diving into specific brands, it’s essential to grasp the fundamental metrics that define a car battery’s performance. These specifications were just as critical in 2017 as they are now, guiding consumers toward the right battery for their vehicle and climate.

• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This is perhaps the most crucial rating, especially for those living in colder climates. CCA measures the number of amperes a 12-volt battery can deliver at 0°F (-18°C) for 30 seconds while maintaining at least 7.2 volts. A higher CCA rating means better starting power in cold weather, which drains battery capacity. In 2017, vehicles with larger engines or those operating in harsh winters typically required higher CCA ratings.
• Reserve Capacity (RC): RC indicates how long (in minutes) a fully charged battery can deliver 25 amperes at 80°F (27°C) before its voltage drops below 10.5 volts. This rating is vital as it represents the battery’s ability to power essential accessories (like lights or radio) if your alternator fails or if you accidentally leave lights on, giving you a "reserve" of power to get to safety or restart the vehicle.
• Battery Size/Group Number: Batteries come in various physical sizes and terminal configurations, standardized by the Battery Council International (BCI) group numbers (e.g., Group 34, 65, 24F). In 2017, as today, fitting the correct physical size and terminal layout was non-negotiable for safety and proper installation. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a reputable battery retailer’s fitment guide would provide the correct BCI group number.
• Battery Type: While advancements continue, in 2017, three primary types dominated the market:
  
  • Flooded Lead-Acid (SLA): The most common and traditional type, these batteries contained a liquid electrolyte solution. They were affordable and reliable but sometimes required maintenance (checking and topping off water levels).
  • Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM): A more advanced version of lead-acid, AGM batteries used fiberglass mats to absorb the electrolyte, making them spill-proof, vibration-resistant, and capable of deeper discharge cycles. They offered superior performance, especially for vehicles with advanced electronics (start-stop systems, though less common in 2017 models, were beginning to emerge).
  • Gel Cell: Less common for automotive starting batteries in 2017, these used a silica-based gel to suspend the electrolyte. They were excellent for deep cycling but generally had lower peak power output than flooded or AGM batteries and were more sensitive to overcharging.
• Warranty: A battery’s warranty, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years, was a strong indicator of a manufacturer’s confidence in their product. A longer free-replacement period and a prorated period offered greater peace of mind.

Top Contenders: Best Car Battery Brands of 2017

In 2017, several brands stood out for their reliability, performance, and widespread availability. These brands often sourced their batteries from a few major manufacturers (like Johnson Controls, now Clarios, and EnerSys), but their branding, quality control, and distribution networks gave them distinct market presences.

1. Optima Batteries

• Reputation in 2017: Optima was synonymous with premium AGM technology. Known for their distinctive Spiralcell Technology and vibrant casing colors, they were a top choice for enthusiasts, off-roaders, and those seeking superior performance and durability.
• Key Features (2017):
  • Spiralcell Technology: Tightly wound cells for increased surface area, leading to higher cranking power and faster recharging.
  • Vibration Resistance: Up to 15 times more resistant to vibration than traditional flooded batteries, making them ideal for rough terrain or high-performance applications.
  • Spill-Proof & Maintenance-Free: Sealed AGM design meant no leaks and no need to add water.
  • Deep Cycle & Starting Power: Their YellowTop models offered excellent dual-purpose capabilities, suitable for vehicles with heavy accessory loads. RedTop was purely for starting.
• Common Models (2017):
  • Optima RedTop: Designed for starting power, best for everyday vehicles.
  • Optima YellowTop: Dual-purpose, ideal for vehicles with accessories or deep-cycle applications.
  • Optima BlueTop: Marine and RV applications, often dual-purpose.
• Pros: Exceptional reliability, high CCA, excellent vibration resistance, long lifespan, fast recharging.
• Cons: Higher price point compared to flooded batteries.

2. Interstate Batteries

• Reputation in 2017: Interstate had a long-standing reputation for reliability and widespread availability through their vast dealer network. They were a go-to for dependable replacement batteries for everyday vehicles.
• Key Features (2017):
  • Broad Range: Offered batteries for almost every vehicle type, including automotive, marine, and commercial.
  • Solid Performance: Known for consistent starting power and decent reserve capacity.
  • Good Warranty: Typically offered competitive warranties, reflecting confidence in their products.
  • AGM and Flooded Options: While their flooded batteries were most common, they also offered high-quality AGM batteries (e.g., MTZ line) for demanding applications.
• Common Models (2017):
  • Mega-Tron Plus (MTP): Their flagship flooded battery line, known for high CCA and RC.
  • Mega-Tron II (MTZ): Interstate’s AGM offering, providing enhanced performance and durability.
• Pros: Very reliable, widely available, good customer support through dealer network, suitable for various climates.
• Cons: Can be slightly more expensive than some entry-level store brands.

3. DieHard Batteries (Sears/Advance Auto Parts)

• Reputation in 2017: In 2017, DieHard batteries were primarily associated with Sears, though they were also expanding their distribution. They had a strong legacy as a reliable and powerful battery choice for decades.
• Key Features (2017):
  • Strong Cranking Power: Often boasted high CCA ratings for dependable starts.
  • Durability: Built to withstand various conditions.
  • Variety: Offered different tiers (Gold, Platinum, Advanced Gold) to cater to various needs and budgets. The Platinum line, in particular, was a highly regarded AGM battery, often compared to Odyssey.
• Common Models (2017):
  • DieHard Gold: Standard flooded battery, good balance of performance and value.
  • DieHard Platinum: Premium AGM battery, offering deep-cycle capabilities and superior vibration resistance. (These were manufactured by EnerSys, similar to Odyssey).
  • DieHard Advanced Gold: Often a step up from the Gold, with enhanced features.
• Pros: Excellent performance, especially the Platinum AGM line; strong brand recognition; good warranty.
• Cons: Availability could be tied to Sears retail locations (though expanding).

4. ACDelco

• Reputation in 2017: As the original equipment (OE) supplier for General Motors vehicles, ACDelco batteries had a solid reputation for meeting OEM specifications and offering reliable performance in the aftermarket.
• Key Features (2017):
  • OE Quality: Designed to meet or exceed GM’s rigorous standards.
  • Broad Coverage: Available for a wide range of vehicles, not just GM.
  • Flooded and AGM Options: Offered maintenance-free flooded batteries and AGM versions (Professional AGM) for superior performance.
• Common Models (2017):
  • ACDelco Professional: Their most popular flooded battery line, known for reliability.
  • ACDelco Professional AGM: For enhanced performance and durability.
• Pros: Trusted OE quality, reliable performance, good value.
• Cons: May not always lead in CCA ratings compared to premium aftermarket options.

5. EverStart (Walmart) & Duralast (AutoZone)

• Reputation in 2017: These were the dominant private-label brands for major retailers. While not manufacturers themselves (often made by Johnson Controls/Clarios), they offered accessible, affordable, and surprisingly reliable options for the average consumer.
• Key Features (2017):
  • Affordability: Generally offered excellent value for money.
  • Widespread Availability: Easy to find at Walmart and AutoZone stores nationwide.
  • Solid Performance: Competent CCA and RC ratings for most standard vehicles.
  • Good Warranty: Often came with competitive warranties, making them a safe bet.
• Common Models (2017):
  • EverStart Maxx: Walmart’s top-tier flooded battery.
  • EverStart Platinum AGM: Walmart’s AGM offering.
  • Duralast Gold: AutoZone’s premium flooded battery.
  • Duralast Platinum AGM: AutoZone’s AGM offering.
• Pros: Excellent value, easy to purchase and return, reliable for daily driving.
• Cons: Less "premium" perception than specialist brands, though performance often comparable.

6. Odyssey Batteries (EnerSys)

• Reputation in 2017: Odyssey was known as a high-performance, military-grade AGM battery brand. Often considered alongside Optima, it catered to demanding applications where extreme durability and power were required.
• Key Features (2017):
  • Extreme Temperature Tolerance: Exceptional performance in very hot or cold conditions.
  • Deep Cycle & High Cranking Power: Capable of both delivering high CCA and enduring deep discharges.
  • Long Lifespan: Often touted for their extended service life.
  • Vibration Resistance: Highly resistant to mechanical vibration.
• Pros: Unparalleled durability, extreme performance, long cycle life.
• Cons: Very expensive, often overkill for a standard passenger vehicle.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your 2017 Car Battery

Beyond brand reputation, several practical considerations helped consumers in 2017 select the right battery:

• Vehicle Type and Manufacturer’s Recommendations: Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended BCI group size, CCA, and RC. Modern vehicles, even in 2017, were becoming more sensitive to battery specifications.
• Climate: If you lived in an area with harsh winters, prioritizing a battery with a high CCA rating was crucial. For extremely hot climates, good reserve capacity and heat resistance were important to prevent premature failure.
• Driving Habits: If you primarily made short trips, your alternator might not fully recharge the battery, making a battery with good reserve capacity or a maintenance charger more important. Vehicles with extensive aftermarket electronics (e.g., powerful sound systems, added lights) benefited from AGM batteries with deep-cycle capabilities.
• Budget vs. Performance: While premium AGM batteries offered superior performance and longevity, they came at a higher price. For many drivers, a reliable flooded battery from a reputable brand provided ample power at a more affordable cost.
• Warranty and Customer Support: A strong warranty provided peace of mind. Consider the length of the free-replacement period and the prorated period. Also, assess the ease of making a warranty claim through the retailer or brand.
• Installation: In 2017, replacing a battery was a common DIY task for many. However, some vehicles, especially those with complex electronic systems or batteries located in hard-to-reach places (like the trunk), might have benefited from professional installation to avoid electrical issues or lost computer settings.

Maintaining Your Car Battery for Longevity

Regardless of the brand, proper maintenance significantly extended a battery’s life in 2017:

• Keep Terminals Clean: Corrosion build-up on terminals impedes current flow. Clean them regularly with a wire brush and a baking soda/water solution.
• Check Fluid Levels (Flooded Batteries): For traditional flooded batteries, periodically check the electrolyte levels and top off with distilled water if needed.
• Use a Battery Charger/Tender: If your car sits for extended periods or makes only short trips, a smart charger or tender prevents deep discharge and maintains optimal charge.
• Avoid Deep Discharge: Repeatedly draining the battery completely shortens its lifespan.
• Regular Testing: Have your battery tested annually, especially before winter, to assess its charge and health. Many auto parts stores offered this service for free.

How to Replace Your Car Battery (Brief Guide)

In 2017, replacing a car battery was a straightforward process for most vehicles, but safety was paramount:

1. Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Ensure your vehicle is off, the parking brake is engaged, and the car is in park (or neutral with the brake on).
2. Gather Tools: You’ll typically need a wrench (usually 10mm or 13mm), a battery terminal cleaner, and possibly a battery terminal puller. A memory saver tool could be used to preserve vehicle computer settings.
3. Disconnect Negative Terminal: Always disconnect the negative (-) terminal first (black cable). Loosen the nut with your wrench and remove the cable.
4. Disconnect Positive Terminal: Next, disconnect the positive (+) terminal (red cable).
5. Remove Hold-Down Clamp: Loosen or remove the battery hold-down clamp.
6. Remove Old Battery: Carefully lift the old battery out. Batteries are heavy!
7. Clean Tray and Terminals: Clean the battery tray and the cable terminals thoroughly.
8. Place New Battery: Set the new battery into the tray, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (positive and negative terminals match the cables).
9. Secure Hold-Down Clamp: Fasten the hold-down clamp to secure the battery.
10. Connect Positive Terminal: Connect the positive (+) cable first, tightening the nut securely.
11. Connect Negative Terminal: Connect the negative (-) cable last, tightening the nut securely.
12. Apply Anti-Corrosion Grease: Apply a thin layer of anti-corrosion grease or terminal protector to both terminals.
13. Dispose of Old Battery: Take your old battery to an auto parts store or recycling center. They are often required to accept it.

Best Car Battery Brands 2017: Illustrative Price Table

Please note: Prices for 2017 are illustrative and represent typical retail ranges for common models of the specified brands in that year. Actual prices varied by retailer, specific model, and region.

Brand Name	Typical Models (2017)	Battery Type	CCA Range (Approx.)	RC Range (Approx. Minutes)	Typical Price Range (2017 USD)	Key Feature/Benefit
Optima Batteries	RedTop, YellowTop	AGM	720-800+	90-140+	$180 – $280+	Extreme vibration resistance, high cranking/deep cycle
Interstate Batteries	Mega-Tron Plus (MTP), MTZ AGM	Flooded, AGM	650-850+	100-150+	$110 – $220	Widespread availability, reliable everyday performance
DieHard Batteries	Gold, Platinum (AGM)	Flooded, AGM	600-850+	90-145+	$100 – $250	Strong legacy, powerful options (especially Platinum)
ACDelco	Professional, Professional AGM	Flooded, AGM	600-775+	90-130+	$90 – $180	OE quality, dependable for GM and other vehicles
EverStart (Walmart)	Maxx, Platinum AGM	Flooded, AGM	600-750+	90-120+	$80 – $170	Excellent value, very accessible
Duralast (AutoZone)	Gold, Platinum AGM	Flooded, AGM	600-750+	90-120+	$90 – $180	Good value, wide availability
Odyssey Batteries	PC Series	AGM	725-1000+	120-180+	$250 – $400+	Military-grade durability, extreme performance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Car Batteries in 2017

Q1: How long did car batteries typically last in 2017?
A1: On average, a car battery in 2017 lasted between 3 to 5 years, depending on climate, driving habits, and maintenance. Extreme temperatures (both hot and cold) and frequent short trips could shorten its lifespan.

Q2: What’s the main difference between CCA and RC?
A2: CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) measures the battery’s ability to start your engine in cold weather. RC (Reserve Capacity) indicates how long the battery can power essential accessories if your alternator fails or the engine isn’t running. Both are important for different aspects of battery performance.

Q3: Could I use an AGM battery if my car came with a flooded battery in 2017?
A3: Yes, in most cases, you could upgrade to an AGM battery. AGM batteries offered superior performance, better resistance to vibration, and were spill-proof. They were generally a direct replacement for flooded batteries of the same BCI group size, though they were more expensive. For vehicles with complex charging systems, verifying compatibility was always a good idea.

Q4: How did I know if my car battery needed replacing in 2017?
A4: Common signs included slow engine cranking (taking longer to start), dimming headlights when idling, flickering dashboard lights, the "check engine" light illuminating, or the battery light on the dashboard. A professional battery test (often free at auto parts stores) could confirm its health.

Q5: Was it safe to install a car battery myself?
A5: For most vehicles, yes, it was generally safe to install a battery yourself if you followed proper safety precautions (wearing eye protection and gloves, disconnecting the negative terminal first, etc.). However, some modern vehicles even in 2017 had complex electrical systems that might require professional installation to avoid losing computer settings or to reset the battery management system.

Q6: What was the best way to dispose of an old car battery in 2017?
A6: Car batteries contain hazardous materials and should never be thrown in the trash. In 2017, the best way to dispose of an old battery was to take it to an auto parts store, a recycling center, or a hazardous waste collection facility. Most retailers selling new batteries were required by law to accept old ones for recycling.

Conclusion

In 2017, choosing the best car battery was a critical decision that directly impacted your vehicle’s reliability and performance. While advancements continue, the core principles of battery technology and the reputable brands that stood out then remain relevant. Brands like Optima, Interstate, DieHard, ACDelco, EverStart, Duralast, and Odyssey consistently delivered quality, each catering to different needs and budgets.

By understanding key specifications like CCA and RC, considering your vehicle’s requirements and climate, and investing in a brand with a proven track record, consumers in 2017 could confidently select a battery that ensured dependable starts and reliable power. Proper maintenance and timely replacement were, and still are, key to maximizing your battery’s lifespan and avoiding unexpected breakdowns. Ultimately, a well-chosen and well-maintained battery was, and always will be, the heart of your vehicle’s electrical system, keeping you on the road and ready for your next journey.