The Top 8 Questions & Answers You Should Know Before You Replace Car Battery

If you are not a technician by training, car battery jargon may be confusing and to replace car battery is just as intimidating.

Besides supplying electricity to the starter motor, it powers up the engine, lights, A/C and electrical applications. Your car depends heavily on the car battery to function well.

You can suffer inconveniences and even be in danger if your car battery goes flat while you are on the road.

Here are the Top 8 Replace Car Battery Questions that usually come up during conversations among car owners in Singapore:

1. Why are there different car battery sizes and which to choose when replacing car batteries?

There is no one-size-fits-all battery for a car. Because car batteries come in different sizes, you need to know the exact battery size and correct power ratings. Selecting the right car battery size will ensure that it can fit securely in your car battery compartment and provide ample power. When you replace a car battery the wrong size, it will not be able to sit snug and can be a hazard.

To choose the right battery size, you need to consider the engine size, the power requirements of the vehicle, and the space available for installation. For more information, please refer to the respective car owner's manual.

2. What car battery types are suitable to replace car battery?

Standard flooded batteries are the most commonly used in car battery replacement to power up the typical car engine and different types of electrical applications. However, this car battery type is not suitable for start-stop vehicles.

There are two kinds of batteries for start-stop vehicles: Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) and Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Battery. EFBs are enhanced versions of standard flooded car batteries with superior cycling and charge acceptance capabilities. Unlike flooded batteries, AGM batteries absorb the sulphuric acid through a fibreglass mesh and squeeze it between the electrode plates, enabling the battery to support the charging needs of start-stop systems.

3. Can I change my car battery type?

When it comes to replacing your car battery, there are a lot of factors at play. An expert should always be consulted first before you decide to change to a different car battery type. Generally, the type of battery installed in your car is set on by the vehicle’s design and its intended functions.

For example, the standard lead-acid batteries cannot handle the electrical demands of start-stop vehicles. An Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) car battery is used instead. The batteries were designed specifically for certain types of vehicles, so they shouldn't be replaced with lead-acid batteries if the car is not compatible.

4. Why is CCA Rating crucial when you replace a car battery?

The Cold Cranking Amp (CCA) rating is used in the car battery industry standard to measure the ability to crank an engine under cold temperatures.

There are 2 amp rating metrics: Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and Cranking Amps (CA). The latter measures how much current (amperes) can be delivered for 30 seconds at 0°C.

It is generally easier to crank start an engine with a higher amp rating. While high CCA is definitely better performing, higher electrolyte-to-lead is prefered for durability in hot and humid Singapore.

5. Why is car battery Reserve Capacity important to know when replacing a car battery?

RC stands for reserve capacity and it shows how long a vehicle can run without a charging system. This measure indicates how long your battery can offer sufficient power without falling below the minimum voltage needed to run your vehicle.

Just like the Cold Cranking Amps, the higher the RC the better.

6. How does a car battery's Depth of Discharge(DoD) work?

It is a measurement of how much battery you have discharged between charges. DoD is the maximum amount of power that can be removed from a car battery without causing damage. In the case of a 100 kWh battery, an 80 kWh depth of discharge equals 80% of the battery's total capacity.

AGM and lead-acid batteries, for example, have a relation between the depth of discharge (DoD) and their cycle life. Getting a battery charged and discharged more frequently will result in a shorter battery lifespan. As a general rule of thumb, it is not advised to completely drain a battery, as that dramatically shortens its useful life. Therefore, most battery manufacturers specify a maximum recommended DoD to ensure optimal performance.

7. Is it necessary to test my car battery regularly prior to replacing the car battery?

Regularly testing your battery and electrical system is essential just like any car maintenance. Don't wait until it becomes weak to test them. It will greatly reduce your chances of car battery failure if you test it at least twice a year.

Especially in hot countries like Singapore, having your battery load tested by a mechanic is a good idea because batteries wear out faster in warm weather. Load-tests determine whether the battery will hold voltage during use and if it needs to be replaced.

8. Is a float charger required for replacing the car battery?

In an emergency, float chargers are used to give current to the load, especially when they are discharged inconsistently. Float chargers prevent excessive discharge of your battery when it is not used for an extended period. The charger is especially useful for cars that rarely get driven.

The disadvantage of using a float charger is that they tend to charge slowly, which requires patience. Additionally, when the battery is completely flat, the float charger cannot be used to charge it.

Replacing car batteries for the first time can be daunting especially if you can't determine car battery myths or facts. If you ever find yourself in a car breakdown, don’t panic! Simply call our skilled technicians to get things sorted out. Our goal is simple and that is to help you get back behind the wheel as quickly as possible.