Car batteries, often overlooked compared to other automotive essentials, play a crucial role in vehicle operation. Recently, Consumer Reports evaluated several car batteries, identifying those that fell short in performance. As consumers prepare for potential battery replacements, knowing which options to avoid can save time and money.
Battery lifespan, reserve capacity, and cold-weather performance are the three main criteria assessed in testing. The lifespan test simulates under-hood conditions, highlighting how batteries react in different climates. Reserve capacity measures a battery’s ability to power vehicle accessories when the ignition is off or if the alternator fails. Cold-weather performance reflects how well a battery functions in extreme temperatures, specifically at 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Lowest-Rated Batteries According to Consumer Reports
The first battery on the list is the Econocraft 24F-E. While it offers average performance in both battery life and reserve capacity, its cold-weather performance is notably lacking. With a price tag of $99.99 at AutoZone and a limited three-month warranty, reviews indicate that some users experienced failures shortly after the warranty expired. It currently holds an average rating of 4.2 stars from the auto parts retailer.
Next is the EverStart AGM H5, priced at $189.00 at Walmart. This Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery boasts maintenance-free operation and good vibration resistance. However, Consumer Reports rated it low due to poor battery life. While it has a 48-month warranty, its ratings reflect average cold-weather performance and above-average reserve capacity, achieving a rating of 4.8 stars from only 20 reviews.
The most expensive battery listed is the Duralast Platinum AGM 51R-AGM, retailing at $259.99. It performed well in cold-weather tests but lagged in overall life and reserve capacity. With an average rating of 4.7 stars based on over 400 reviews, user feedback highlights concerns over its price and occasional reports of dead batteries upon purchase, suggesting potential quality control issues.
Affordable Yet Underperforming Options
The second-lowest rated battery is the Econocraft H6-E. Priced at $99.99, this non-AGM battery has poor performance in overall battery life tests, coupled with average ratings in cold-weather performance and reserve capacity. The short warranty of just three months does not inspire confidence. Boasting a 4.5-star rating from over 450 reviews, many users reported failures within the first few months.
Finally, the lowest-rated battery is the Econocraft 35E, also priced at $99.99. This model exhibited below-average performance in both overall life and cold-weather testing, and it also struggles with reserve capacity. It currently holds a rating of 4.3 stars at AutoZone, with negative reviews citing premature failures.
While selecting a car battery can be daunting, it is essential to consider both performance and warranty details. Consumer Reports has highlighted several batteries that perform well, and alternatives can be found at retailers like Costco, which offers batteries with a more favorable 36-month warranty.
In conclusion, staying informed about car battery performance can help consumers make better purchasing decisions, ensuring reliability on the road.