High-Quality Vs. Value Car Batteries

Car batteries tend to last for years. We rarely think about them until they start to fail, and when they do, they need to be replaced right away to avoid breaking down.

You might think that any old replacement battery will do. However, there are several types of automotive batteries, and prices and quality levels vary greatly. This blog looks into the differences between high-quality OE specification batteries and value car batteries.

Are All Car Batteries The Same?

Not at all. While every battery has the same function, each vehicle will have different energy requirements that have to be met. Your car’s battery provides power to various electrical devices when the engine is not running. It also supplies the necessary current to allow the starter motor to get the engine started.

If the battery is failing, it won’t charge correctly and may not have the power required to power the starter or other electrical devices. Some cars have stop/start devices, regenerative braking systems, and other complex electronic equipment. These must be supplied with an exact amount of power to function correctly.

You will also need to choose the right replacement battery type and size to ensure that your vehicle functions as the manufacturer intended.

What Defines A High-Quality Car Battery?

•  Solid warranty period
•  Long service life
•  High-quality construction methods and sustainable manufacturing
•  Reliable operation in all conditions

GMB has been manufacturing OE equipment for 80 years. We are one of the world’s top 5 auto parts manufacturers, and our automotive batteries are designed to meet OEM standards.

We use AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology which can meet the complex energy needs of modern vehicles. Another defining feature of GMB batteries is their consistent performance in rough road conditions, under high power demands, and during extreme temperatures. 

What Defines A Value Car Battery?

• Lower pricing due to cheaper construction materials
• Shorter service life
• Variable performance in extreme conditions
• Often use old battery technology

Several brands of value car batteries claim to offer the same specifications as OEM equivalents. This is rarely the case in practice.

These value car batteries are designed from cheaper materials to achieve their lower price point. They do not have to meet any OEM manufacturer quality or performance requirements, and they may not be able to cope with the vehicle’s power demands.

A value car battery is just a euphemism for cheap. The small savings you make during purchase will cost you more in the long run, as these batteries tend to have a shorter service life.

Some value car batteries are designed using old lead-acid technology. These batteries are not as long lasting as an AGM battery. They are also less safe in an accident, due to the liquid acid they contain. AGM batteries also put out slightly higher voltage than lead acid batteries. This difference is not much, but modern vehicles need the higher voltage provided by an AGM battery for their electronics to function properly.

How Much Do Car Batteries Cost?

The pricing depends on the size, design, and battery technology: 

Electrical systems — Advanced onboard electrical devices and stop/start technology put an extra strain on the battery. This requires a higher capacity battery, which can increase the price.

Battery Design — Flooded or Lead-Acid batteries are more common on older cars and tend to cost less. Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are maintenance-free and more common in modern vehicles but tend to cost more.

Battery Size — Each vehicle has a recommended battery size. Your subcompact hatchback’s battery will be smaller than a full-sized SUV.

At GMB, we stock a full range of OE-approved batteries in L2 to L6 sizes. A typical AGM-type automotive battery costs between $150 and $300.

Can I Replace A Car Battery Myself?

Yes. It is a relatively simple task to replace a car battery.

Replacing the battery on most cars is straightforward. To loosen clamps and terminals, you will need a ratchet set or screwdriver. Wear protective gloves to avoid battery acid burning your skin.

Remove the red and black terminals and any securing clamps. Install the new battery in the same way, and do not mix the terminal connectors.

Should I Buy A High-Quality Or Value Car Battery? 

Buying a value, aka cheap battery, may end up costing you more. Always stick to OEM specification replacement batteries. They will perform as the manufacturer intended and tend to last far longer than poor quality alternatives.

GMB stocks a full range of OE-specification batteries for many vehicle types. Never settle for subpar or unproven ‘value’ battery brands. GMB has been an industry-leading OE and Aftermarket automotive product manufacturer since 1943. We have locations on both the east and west coasts of the US, in California and New Jersey. Look at our range of products and contact us to order your replacement battery today.