Are you planning to buy a new battery? Well, there are many things you need to consider – and one of these is the price tag.
Whatever your budget may be, this article aims to answer a very popular question that many ask: How expensive is a car battery?
Table of Contents
How Much Does a Car Battery Cost?
Traditional car battery prices range anywhere from $60 to $300. However, rechargeable EV batteries can cost a whopping $4,000 to $20,000.
The following factors influence such costs:
1. Type of Battery
Battery costs can vary according to your preferred size, technology, performance, and/or warranty.
- Size
There are three battery group sizes, namely 24, 65, and 75. Larger batteries – or those that come in a unique size – would be more expensive than the smaller/traditional batteries.
- Technology
Lead-acid flooded or wet-cell batteries are the cheapest in the market. Given the price tag, it’s not surprising that they have a shorter lifespan. Moreover, they don’t perform as well as the other types in extreme temperatures.
On the other hand, dry cell or absorbent glass mat batteries tend to last longer. They provide more juice, which is why these AGM batteries are more expensive than lead-acid ones.
The same can be said with gel batteries. They can survive extreme conditions and don’t require as much maintenance work.
Lithium-ion batteries, which work to circulate electrons, are used to power electric vehicles (EVS.) Being rechargeable EV batteries, they can cost thousands of dollars.
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- Purpose
The most common type of battery is SLI, which is short for starting-lighting-ignition. It aims to deliver a burst of power so the car would start. Because of their limited functioning, SLI batteries cost less.
Deep cycle batteries, on the other hand, cost more than SLI. After all, they work to release power at a slower, albeit longer, duration.
The most expensive battery – according to purpose – is the dual-purpose variant. They can start the car – and deep-cycle it when need be. They are made of thin and thick plate technology, so they cost more than the first two.
- Cold-Weather Performance
You’ll need a battery with a higher cold cranking amps rating if you live in a cold area. Expectedly, the higher the said rating, the pricier the battery.
- Brand
Some battery brands are more expensive than others. For example, Optima, Delphi, Odyssey, and ACDelco – considered more reliable by many – tend to be pricier than other brands.
- Manufacturers’ Country
Batteries made in China are cheaper than batteries made in the US because of their lower labor costs. The price of parts may be lower too, which is why the price points vary greatly.
Do note that you may pay a bit more over importation costs and whatnot.
- Warranty
Do you want to get a covered replacement after years of usage? Then you need to go for a product with a more extended warranty. Of course, this means purchasing a more expensive battery.
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2. Battery Condition
A brand-new battery is, of course, pricey. So if you want to get a discount, then you may need to consider any of these two options:
- Refurbished or reconditioned
As the name suggests, these batteries have been rebuilt or reconditioned. They’re cheaper but don’t last as long as new batteries. That said, you can expect it to power your car for 1-3 years before it gives up on you.
- Used
Like refurbished batteries, used kinds come at a discounted price. The only caveat is you wouldn’t know how much time you have left with these.
3. Installation Costs
Unless you know how to replace the battery yourself, you’ll also need to pay for installation. Labor costs can range anywhere from $20 to $100.
To save money, make sure to follow this video guide on how to install a battery in your vehicle.
When Do You Need to Replace Your Car Battery?
Car battery replacement costs can quickly burn a hole in your wallet. And while you may be reluctant to buy a new (or refurbished) one right now, these signs mean that you have to – ASAP:
1. Starting Problems
Does your car make a long whirring or sluggish sound whenever you try to start it?
Do you hear a clang or clicking sound under the hood whenever you turn the key?
Do the dash lights work, but your car won’t start?
Do your batteries require frequent jump-starting?
Unfortunately, these are signs that your battery has gone bad. As such, you need to replace the battery ASAP to avoid potential problems along the way.
2. Presence of Film/Corrosion
If your car is experiencing any of the problems above – and you still refuse to change your batteries – then make sure to pop the hood.
Are there signs of corrosion on the positive terminal? Is there a film that lingers on top of the battery case?
Unfortunately, these mean that your battery fluid is leaking or emitting fumes. While removing any of these would help, don’t be surprised if they keep on returning.
And if they do, it’s a definite call for you to replace the battery immediately.
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3. Battery Lifespan
Types of car batteries have different lifespans. If yours is a lead-acid one, you’ll need to replace it after 500-1000 charging cycles – or approximately two years of use.
AGM batteries need to be replaced after 5-6 years, while gel batteries may need to be changed after seven years. And depending on usage, your gel batteries may last for as long as 20 years.
That being said, these are only rough estimates. Your battery’s capacity can decrease significantly (from 5-7 years to 3 years) if you live in a hotter area.
Conclusion
Traditional car batteries cost anywhere from $60-$300, while EV batteries can go as high as $4,000 to $20,000.
These prices vary according to the battery’s capacity, technology, and performance. The manufacturers’ country, brand, and warranty also play huge roles.
The condition of the battery (new, refurbished, or used) and the installation costs also contribute to the overall cost.
Have you purchased a car battery lately? How much did it cost you? Share it with us below!