UPDATE: Consumer Reports has just released its latest ratings on car batteries, highlighting the lowest performers that could leave drivers stranded. With battery failures often occurring unexpectedly, knowing which models to avoid is crucial for vehicle owners looking to prevent roadside emergencies.
A car battery is essential for starting your vehicle and powering its electronics, yet many consumers overlook its importance until it’s too late. Most batteries last between three to five years, making regular checks vital. The latest ratings reveal significant disparities in battery performance, and some options are alarmingly poor.
The battery that tops the list of underperformers is the Econocraft 24F-E, priced at $99.99. It received average marks for life and reserve capacity but faltered in cold-weather performance, which could be crucial for drivers in colder climates. Notably, this model comes with a disappointing three-month warranty—a red flag for any potential buyers. AutoZone customers have given it a modest rating of 4.2 stars, with numerous reviews citing early failures.
Next on the list is the EverStart AGM H5, available at Walmart for $189.00. While AGM technology offers advantages like maintenance-free operation and excellent vibration resistance, this model’s battery life is rated poorly by Consumer Reports. Despite its average cold-weather performance and above-average reserve capacity, the 4.8-star rating at Walmart is based on limited reviews, raising concerns about reliability.
Third is the Duralast Platinum AGM 51R-AGM, the priciest battery at $259.99. It performed well in cold weather tests but struggled with overall life and reserve capacity. Customer feedback on AutoZone shows it has a solid average rating of 4.7 stars, though complaints about dead batteries upon installation have been noted. Potential buyers are urged to ensure the battery is fully charged before leaving the store.
The Econocraft H6-E ranks just above the absolute lowest-rated batteries, also priced at $99.99. This model suffers from poor life performance, with average cold-weather performance and reserve capacity. Its short three-month warranty and a 4.5-star rating based on over 450 reviews suggest a troubling trend of premature failures.
Finally, the lowest-rated battery in Consumer Reports is the Econocraft 35E. With a price tag of $99.99 and a similar three-month warranty, this model is characterized by below-average performance across the board. Consumers have rated it 4.3 stars on AutoZone, but again, negative reviews highlight instances of early failure.
The message is clear: choosing a reliable car battery is imperative to avoid being stranded or facing unexpected costs. While these low-rated options are available, many higher-rated batteries exist that could offer greater peace of mind. Consumers are encouraged to explore options at retailers like Costco, which offers a 36-month warranty on its batteries.
As car batteries play a critical role in vehicle functionality, staying informed about which products to avoid can save drivers from significant inconvenience and expense. Don’t wait until your battery fails—check your vehicle’s battery today!
