Ready to buy a new AGM battery? You will be after reading our buying guide
Our pro technicians know exactly which are the best car AGM batteries are the best purchase.
In this ProperMechanic.com guide, you will learn the following:
- Which AGM battery is the right replacement for your vehicle
- Tips on how to keep your AGM battery healthy and strong
- What to do if your AGM battery dies
And much more!
Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose the best battery for your car.
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Our Top Pick
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Our Top Pick
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ACDelco Advantage AGM Automotive Group 51 Battery
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Best Budget
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Best Budget
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Odyssey PC680 Battery
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Best High End
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Best High End
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Optima Batteries RedTop Starting Battery
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Weize Deep Cycle AGM SLA Battery
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Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery
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Universal Power Group 12V Solar Wind DGM
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Battery Tender AGM Motorcycle Battery
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Mighty Max Battery 12V Battery
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Our Overall #1 Rated Pick
(updated 9/2/2020)
Top Overall Pick:
Our favorite pick is ACDelco because they make high-quality auto batteries that are priced affordably.
This ACDelco ACDB24R Advantage AGM Automotive BCI Group 51 Battery is a super durable unit that is perfect for pickup trucks and offroad vehicles because of its excellent ability to resist vibrations and being tossed around.
Backed with a 2-year warranty, you won't have to maintain your battery near as often with the AGM technology that ACDelco gives your vehicle.
Another good reason to purchase an ACDelco is that they are a company based out of the USA.
Although it isn't specified where exactly this product is produced, we support American companies over foreign-based.
Top 8 Best AGM Car Batteries
What Are AGM Batteries For Cars?
Absorbed Glass Mat batteries or AGM batteries are high-quality batteries that can handle higher charge and discharge rates when compared to gel batteries.
AGM batteries stand up better to lower temperatures and maintain life in cold weather temperatures, giving them a longer life and a longer cycle life, since they don't need to be charged all the time since they have a slower self-discharge rate compared to regular lead-acid batteries.
High-performance AGM batteries are generally leak-proof and spill-proof, so all of you off-road drivers have a better option for a battery that won't let you down.
Vehicles That Have Start-Stop Emissions Systems Use AGM batteries
Have you ever driven a vehicle that stops the engine when you come to a stoplight?
If you have, you might wonder how the battery doesn't die after all those starts and stops? The answer is AGM batteries because they have a better cycling capability than any other design.
That means they can be completely be discharged and come back to life more times than any other battery.
In general, luxury vehicles that have a higher number of systems that rely on battery power are usually stocked with AGM batteries because they demand more electricity and the AGM battery can withstand the discharges and outperforms the lead-acid battery.
There is a reason why companies like Mercedes-Benz uses AGM batteries in their vehicles - that's because they are the best.
Okay, they might be more expensive, but it's worth it.
So, if you want a 70% longer battery life, charges faster, and is more durable, then an AGM battery is the right choice for you.
It is said that AGM batteries charge up to 5 times faster than a traditional battery.
Read More >> How Do You Revive An Old Car Battery Yourself?
What Are The Different Types of AGM Batteries For Cars?
There are a couple of different AGM battery designs, including the latest flat plate AGM design and the spiral cell design. The flat plate AGM design flows out in a grid pattern for optimum flow to each cell.
Flat Plate Design
Flat plate design basically means that each cell is separated by a flat plate inside the battery.
Spiral Cell Design
We recommend that you always use the OEM recommended battery for your vehicle for the best driving results.
Marine-specific use
Some AGM batteries like the Optima BlueTop are built specifically for use in boats and other marine-specific vehicles. AGM makes for an ideal marine battery because they are vibration resistance and aren't easily discharged.
Off-grid applications
AGM batteries make great energy savers for living off the grid. Rig your solar panels, wind turbines and other off-grid energy producers into an AGM battery like a Renogy Deep Cycle AGM battery, and your energy will be safer and last longer/won't discharge from the battery as fast.
RV-specific
If you have an RV, it might possibly be equipped with an AGM battery as it's main source of power.
Hybrid Car Batteries
Some hybrid cars require an AGM battery.
Auxilary battery
Some cars have auxiliary batteries that perform specific functions and help the vehicle function if the main battery fails.
Auxilary batteries are small and can be located anywhere from under the hood, inside the chassis, or in the trunk.
There is nothing more annoying than when the 'service auxiliary battery' warning indicator illuminates on the dash, but you should stay on top of your auxiliary battery service because it could be taking over systems like your ABS(anti-lock braking) in place of the main battery.
Read More >> What Are The Best Car Battery Chargers?
How Do AGM Batteries For Cars Work?
AGM batteries are VRLA (valve-regulated lead-acid) and were first made for aircraft in the USA.
These are deep cycle batteries that perform better than the average(or even old-school) lead acid batteries.
Most AGM batteries are also VRLA or regulated by a system of valves that release excess pressure when necessary. These are the highest technology batteries on the market today and are even used on the US Nuclear Submarine fleet because of their safe function.
Every battery has 6 cells that put out 2V a piece.
Pure lead in AGM batteries allows for higher cold cranking amps and also less internal resistance so that electrons flow better.
Nothing spills out of AGM batteries because the cylindrical fiberglass case keeps the cells in an enclosed area as they expand and contract.
AGM batteries are said to last about 3 times longer than regular lead-acid batteries.
They also have deep cycle characteristics which means you can charge them and discharge them reliably
Using a spiral takes advantage of the most efficient use of space.
When AGM batteries have to be charged, you must use a charger that is set to an AGM setting and knows how to charge it correctly.
AGM batteries must also be tested by a more advanced tester.
You should always store AGM batteries right side up.
Read More >> How Do You Remove Scratches Yourself?
Can you switch out a normal battery for an AGM?
In most cases, switching out to an AGM battery isn't a problem, and will even enhance your driving experience.
For example, if you put AGM in an older model that wasn't stocked with an OEM AGM, you have now upgraded your charging system to a battery that holds up to the weather better.
What To Look For In The Best AGM Batteries For Cars?
OEM option
You should, by all means, try to replace your AGM battery with the recommended OEM option to avoid damage to your vehicle's electrical system.
Aside from asking an auto part professional, one of the best ways to learn which AGM battery is the best is by reading reviews.
For example, Optima batteries supposedly made some really great AGM batteries until they changed their manufacturing location from the United States to Mexico in the early 2000s.
After they made the switch, the quality level of the batteries suffered and they started failing sooner.
But that isn't to say that Optima doesn't make great batteries.
They are still one of the highest quality AGM models on the market.
Price/quality
Let's be honest, you are definitely going to be paying more money when replacing an AGM battery.
CCA(cold-cranking amps)
When replacing a battery you should line up numbers like the CCA(cold-cranking amps), or the battery's ability to function at below-freezing temperatures.
Amp Hours
This is a rating that informs users of how many amps the battery can produce for exactly one hour. The average car battery has 48 amp-hours.
Read More >> What Are The Best Car Detailing Kits On The Market?
Our Reviews Of The Best AGM Batteries For Cars
Check out batteries like the ACDelco ACDB24R because it is a relatively inexpensive and also a quality solution for your failed AGM battery, or even a good upgrade to an old lead-acid battery that is weighing down your current vehicle with difficult starting problems.
The calcium-alloy inside the ACDelco ACDB24R is optimized to produce a fine grain grid that is corrosion resistant.
Purchase an ACDelco battery off Amazon for the best price.
Pros
Cons
Pick #2: Odyssey PC680 Battery
Batteries like the Odyssey PC680 are a solid option if you are looking to switch over to AGM technology.
This battery has a 2-year full replacement warranty and is an affordable option for a battery that lasts longer and wears better against hard discharging.
Consider putting an Odyssey battery in your vehicle because it has vibration-resistance technology and it has the capability to fully recharge within just a few hours.
Pros
Cons
Optima batteries are one of the more common brands you will find for use with automobiles.
RedTop batteries are designed for vehicle starting, YellowTop batteries are designed for hybrid cars, and BlueTop for marine-grade use.
With a polypropylene case material, this battery is 15 times more resistant to vibration. The perfect option for SUVs and offroad vehicles.
Pick up a RedTop starting battery and say goodbye to frequent battery problems.
Pros
Cons
Pick #4: Weize Deep Cycle AGM SLA Battery
Weize makes a great all-purpose AGM battery with a long service life that is ideal for electric vehicles, lawn & garden, golf carts, portable tools, industrial and medical equipment, electric scooters, off-grid applications and more.
Need a power source for your solar or wind panels? Here is an affordable option. Looking for an emergency battery for when the power goes off in your home or business? You got it.
If you are in need of a reliable battery, the Weize 12V 100AH Deep Cycle AGM SLA VRLA Battery is a great choice.
Pros
Cons
The Universal Power Group 12V 100Ah Solar Wind AGM SLA DEEP Cycle VRLA Battery 12V 24V 48V isn't exactly the best battery for automotive use(although it's 12V, so probably would work just fine) it is a great option for smaller electric vehicles like golf carts, and of course, for off-grid applications like solar panels wind turbines.
This is a good and cheap option for an emergency battery to power the lights in your business or home in those instances where the power goes out.
Pros
Cons
Looking to upgrade your stock motorcycle battery to a maintenance-free battery that holds up to high vibrations and bad weather conditions? If so, then Battery Tender battery is your battery.
Choose from three different specifications of the Battery Tender AGM Motorcycle Battery for the best battery option for your specific offroad vehicle or street bike.
Pros
Cons
Pick #8: Mighty Max Battery 12V Battery
Here is another well-reviewed all-purpose AGM battery that is ready to fulfill whatever purpose you need it for.
Protected with a full year warranty, this Mighty Max Battery is priced at the middle of the road when compared to the AGM batteries similar.
We recommend trying this battery out for your mobile rig, storing solar panel energy, etc. but we don't recommend it for gas or diesel-powered vehicles as it is a foreign product and is at risk of high flammability.
Pros
Cons
Our Top Pick: ACDelco Advantage AGM Automotive Group 51 Battery
Our top pick is the ACDelco ACDB24R Advantage AGM Automotive BCI Group 51 Battery because ACDelco makes recommendable products that last.
Since AGM batteries have a higher risk of explosions and burning, we recommend you purchase a quality brand that is made by an American company.
Sure, some foreign products are the way to go because they are high quality or they save you money, however, in this case, we trust American brands because the USA invented this product in the first place.
Our Best Battery Care Advice
Switch Your Interior Lights To LED
If you are tired of your car battery dying from drains like leaving the dome lights on, a good quick fix would be to change all of your interior lights to LED.
According to energy.gov, LED lights use at least 75% less energy compared to incandescent lights.
Purchase A Battery Tender
Battery problems? Purchase a Diehard battery charger. A battery tender will help to keep your battery at full force if you decide to store your car away for more than a month at a time.
The least you can do when leaving your car few a month or two is disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid your battery from discharging.
The Best Deals On AGM Batteries Are On Amazon
Want to get the best deal? Buy online. Buying auto parts online has more than one benefit. One of them being you
Store Your Batteries At Low Temperature
When storing a battery, it's important that you store it in a place like your basement or cellar that has low temperatures. Anywhere from 32-70 degrees F (0-21 degrees C) is a good temperature range to store your AGM battery safely. Don't store your battery close to a heat source.
Diagnosing Your Battery?
Did your battery malfunction indicator illuminate on the dash? It could be the battery, the alternator, or even some other part of the vehicle's electrical system.
The first thing you should do in this situation is to take your car to your local auto parts store, where the attendant will be happy to test your battery.
What's The Difference Between AGM and Gel Cell Batteries?
Gel cell VRLA batteries have an electrolyte that is in gel form, so the battery doesn't have to be in the upright position.
Gel cell and AGM are both VRLA batteries, but the main difference is that Gel cells discharge slower.
AGM batteries are stronger, however, by the fact that they can withstand more charging and discharging.
Don't Forget To Maintain Your Battery
You should check the condition of your battery every couple of months to ensure it is keeping a good charge and won't leave you stranded. We recommend purchasing a battery charger/tender to keep your battery in top conditions for those times when you don't drive for a week or longer.
Want some good recommendations? Check out our Top 5 Best Battery Chargers For Your Car
What Are The Steps For Replacing A Battery?
Replacing a battery is one of the easier automotive repairs, and such a relief sometimes to find out that the problem was just the battery.
Before immediately replacing your battery, have it tested to be sure that it is indeed in need of replacing.
When you do go to switch out your battery, here are some reliable steps for doing it safely.
Step 1: Locate and inspect the battery
Locating the battery might involve pulling off some plastic panels or lifting up the trump flap to expose it.
Inspect the battery terminals to ensure they are installed firmly. Half of the battery problems out there are because the terminals aren't getting a good connection.
Step 2: Unmount the battery
Most batteries are mounted into a position to keep them from moving around. If you notice that your battery isn't mounted in, look in its surrounding areas to see if it was mounted once before. This could save you some time the next time your car gets shaken around on a dirt road.
Use the appropriate socket or screwdriver to unmount the battery from its position
Step 3: Remove the negative battery terminal first
It's important to remove the negative terminal first to avoid shorting out your vehicle's electrical system. Remember, black is negative, and red is positive!
After you've removed the negative terminal, you can safely remove the positive terminal without damaging anything.
Step 4: Remove And Replace Battery
Lift that heavy battery out and place the new one in! Installation requires that you perform this list in reverse order, connecting the positive terminal first, then the negative terminal.
You should now be good to go without battery problems. And remember, if you are still having problems, there is probably another electrical issue at hand like a bad alternator that is causing you grief.
Don't forget to tighten those terminal bolts sufficiently! It's also important that you don't overtighten. Your car might not start if the terminal clamps are slightly loose.
Where Is My AGM Battery Located?
You might be confused to open the hood of your car and find jumper ports but no battery!
That's because if your car is stocked with an OEM AGM battery, the engineer has located it in a location that is a bit further away from the engine to avoid flammability in the case of an accident or punctured battery.
Some manufacturers have the battery positioned under the seats inside the chassis or even in the trunk for just that reason.
To locate and replace your battery, you may need to purchase a full-service manual on your vehicle that tells you where everything is. That or ask our Proper Mechanic page!
Questions?
If you made it through this article, you are now better prepared to purchase a high-density energy AGM battery.
Don't forget to hit us with all of your automotive and mechanical-related questions on our Proper Mechanic page!
