Battery Features

Batteries have four basic features: strength, reserve capacity, size, and terminal design.

• Strength - Almost all car batteries are 12 volts. However, the amperage rating can vary significantly. A typical range is 300-600 amps. Higher amperage rating means greater battery strength. Current strength is quoted in cold cranking amps, or CCA. CCA is the amount of current that can be drawn from the battery for 30 seconds at 0° F. without the voltage dropping below 7.2 volts.
• Reserve Capacity - reserve capacity is a measure of how long the battery could operate the car if the charging system failed. This includes powering the ignition system (spark plugs) as well as electrical accessories. The reserve capacity is stated in minutes. It is the time required to drain a 12 volt battery down to 10.5 volts by applying a 25 amp load. The battery is tested at 80° F. with full charge.
• Size - Battery sizes may vary about 2" in length, about 1/2" in width, and about 2" in height. It is important to select a battery that will securely fit in your battery tray.
• Terminal design - Batteries may have different configurations for their terminals (post, stud, or side). Battery cables are attached to the terminals. Be sure to select the one that matches your battery cable connectors.

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BATTERY
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MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS