It’s a fact that sooner or later, a car’s battery will die, even in the most reliable of vehicles. When that happens, we hope that you’re not too inconvenienced (ideally, you’re at home and therefore not stuck somewhere). While you may decide to pay someone to remove the old one and install the new unit, battery replacement is a fairly easy DIY job. You can read about the procedure in our article Servicing and Replacing a Battery.
When the time comes, it’s also fairly easy to visit www.CARiD.com on the device of your choice and purchase a new battery which will be delivered right to you. To assist you in that process, we have created this FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) article, based on some of the queries we’ve gotten from customers. Read on to find out everything you might need to know about selecting your new battery.
Q. CARiD offers both Replacement Batteries and Performance Batteries. What is the difference?
A. The Replacement Batteries category has batteries closest to the Original Equipment (OE) battery installed by the vehicle manufacturer. If you are looking for a larger or different style of battery, or are working on a custom build, we suggest starting your search under the Performance Batteries category.
Q. Why would someone choose a performance battery over a replacement battery?
A. For the vast majority of applications, the replacement battery category will suit most customers’ needs. For vehicles with modified or replacement performance engines, or significant upgrades to its electricals (sound systems, additional lighting), a larger and more powerful “performance” battery may be needed.
Q. Where do I find these batteries on CARiD?
A. The easiest way is to type the word “batteries” in the search bar. In the results, you’ll see both “batteries – replacement” and “batteries – performance”. For replacement batteries, you can also click on “Parts” in the top menu, then “Starting & Charging Parts”, then “batteries”. For performance, the string is “performance / starting & charging / batteries”. See the illustrated strings below.
Q. Most batteries on CARiD are identified as AGM. What does that mean?
A. AGM stands for Absorbed Glass Mat. Compared to older-style FLA (flooded lead-acid) batteries with liquid electrolyte which can spill, an AGM battery holds its electrolyte in a sponge-like mat, therefore, electrolyte cannot spill out, even if the case cracks. AGM batteries also offer faster charging, low maintenance (no need to top up w/water), greater starting power, resistance to vibration, and overall longer service life. They can be shipped fully charged and ready to install (not the case for FLA batteries), so our customers prefer them and they are the primary type of battery we offer.
Q. How do I know what size battery to buy?
A. Batteries come in many different sizes and different terminal positions. CARiD has done the hard work for you: once you key in your vehicle’s year, make, and model, the results will show batteries intended to fit your vehicle. In some cases, you may see more than one type of battery and will need to check your vehicle’s specs.
Q. Can I specify the battery I want without entering a year, make and model first?
A. Yes, you certainly can. Once you are at the Replacement Battery category, use the Refine Search menu on the left. Start by selecting “Batteries” under PART TYPE. From here you can select Terminal Polarity, Terminal Location, AMP Hour Capacity, and Reserve Capacity. You can also choose a battery by brand, also from the Refine Search menu.
We trust that you have found this FAQ document helpful. If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us via phone, email, or live chat. A knowledgeable sales associate will be happy to answer your questions!