When it’s time to replace your battery, the type you choose can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance. The two most common batteries for cars and trucks are the traditional flooded lead acid and Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM). Either kind can be installed in your vehicle, but which one is the right choice for you?
Traditional Flooded Lead Acid
The traditional flooded lead acid battery, which was first introduced in 1859 and gained popularity in the 1920s with the rise of electric starter motors in cars, remains the most commonly used battery in vehicles today.
Inside the housing of a traditional 12-volt flooded lead acid battery are six cells, each containing positive and negative lead plates. These plates are submerged (or "flooded") in a sulfuric acid solution called electrolyte, which initiates a chemical reaction and generates electrical energy. Occasionally, you may notice a powdery white, green, or blue substance around the battery terminals. This corrosion buildup is caused by gas emissions from the chemical reactions inside the battery and can decrease its lifespan. Some flooded batteries require venting to allow these gases to escape.
Flooded lead acid batteries typically last three to five years, depending on driving and climate conditions. However, the lifespan can be reduced by road vibrations and exposure to extreme temperatures. Additionally, when a vehicle is in use, the alternator charges the battery to ensure it continues to power the electrical components such as lights, radio, power seats, and backup cameras. Therefore, it is important to drive cars and trucks regularly to maintain the battery's charge. Most well-maintained flooded lead acid batteries can retain their charge for at least two weeks without requiring the vehicle to be driven.
Pros
• 3-5 year lifespan
• More affordable than AGM
• Mature, reliable, well-understood technology
• High output power capability
Cons
• Adversely affected by extreme temperatures and vibration
• Electrolyte can spill out if the battery case is damaged
• Corrosion build-up that reduces battery life
ABSORBED GLASS MAT (AGM)
AGM batteries were invented in 1980 and were originally used to power military vehicles and aircraft. Today, they are a popular choice for personal cars and trucks.
The interior of the AGM battery is slightly different than its flooded counterpart. It uses a separator made of fibreglass between the positive and negative plates, which absorbs all the electrolyte solution. This design allows the battery to store the electrolyte in a dry state rather than a liquid form. Therefore, if the battery case is ever damaged or tipped on its side, the electrolyte will not spill. In addition, AGMs do not require venting like traditional flooded batteries, so they are less likely to have corrosion build-up on the terminals.
AGM batteries last approximately three to six years and have a slow discharge rate, so they can last up to two months without the vehicle being driven. They are resistant to vibration, charge up to five times faster than flooded lead acid batteries, and provide the ideal solution for the high-power demands of Start-Stop vehicles. In addition, AGMs stand up against extreme temperatures, making them an excellent choice for regions with high heat or freezing conditions.
Pros
• 3-6 year lifespan
• Leakproof
• Designed for harsh climates
• Vibration resistant
• Charges 5 times faster
• Low self-discharge rate
• Maintenance free
Cons
• Pricey: AGMs cost 25% - 50% more than traditional flooded lead acid batteries
Choosing between a traditional flooded lead acid battery or an AGM comes down to price and what your vehicle requires. AGM batteries typically offer greater safety benefits and better performance. Plus, they are required for vehicles with high energy demands. For most cars and trucks, traditional flooded lead acid batteries can perform the same job at a considerably reduced cost but won’t last as long. If you are comfortable making the up-front investment, an AGM is an excellent choice for the long term.
CAA Niagara provides Members with the highest quality traditional flooded lead acid and AGM car batteries, delivered and installed wherever you are.
Call 1-800-263-3616 to schedule a visit from a trained Battery Service Technician for a free battery inspection.
Ontario