When it comes to your car, the battery is the unsung hero that gets you on the road, providing that vital spark to bring your asphalt Cheetah to life. But for performance enthusiasts and those with more demanding electrical needs, regular batteries may not be enough to do everything you want. This is where high-performance car batteries come in, offering a range of benefits that ordinary batteries can’t live up to.
But before we dive in, let's address some common questions:
Do I really need a high-performance car battery?
This will really depend on your driving habits and your car's needs. High-performance batteries are great for:
Performance-driving
If you frequently engage in track days, autocross events or performance driving, a high-performance battery can deliver the extra cranking power and faster recharge rates needed for consistent starts and optimal performance.
High-powered accessories
Cars with demanding aftermarket audio systems, winches or other high-power accessories can benefit from these batteries' increased power output and reserve capacity, which high-performance batteries offer.
Driving in extreme weather conditions
High-performance batteries often perform better in extreme cold or hot weather, making sure you get a reliable start even in harsh environments.
If your daily commute isn’t modded out the wazoo or your car doesn't have any special requirements, a regular battery should likely suffice.
What are the benefits of using a high-performance car battery?
High-performance car batteries offer several advantages, such as:
Higher cranking amps (CCA)
This metric indicates the battery's ability to deliver a burst of current to start the engine. Higher CCA ensures more reliable starts, especially in cold weather or when you really need it (like track days).
Faster recharge rates
High-performance batteries can recover from discharge quicker, ensuring they're always ready to go, even after short trips or accessory usage.
Increased reserve capacity (RC)
This refers to the battery's ability to power essential electrical components when the engine is off. High RC is crucial for cars with advanced features like security systems or infotainment systems.
Vibration resistance
Often, high-performance batteries are designed to withstand vibrations better, making them suitable for off-road driving or high-performance cars.
Are high-performance car batteries worth the extra cost?
Whilst there is a cost difference between regular and high-performance batteries, it's really a matter of weighing up the benefits against your specific needs. The extra investment can be worthwhile if your car and driving habits mean the advantages mentioned above will help you drive better, win more races or get where you want to go.
If a regular battery ticks all your boxes, spending extra on a performance battery may not be necessary. If you’re unsure, talk to one of our staff, and we will be more than happy to outline all the features and benefits of both types of batteries.
What are the downsides of using a high-performance car battery?
Whilst they can be beneficial for many reasons, there are a few potential drawbacks to using high-performance batteries:
Higher cost
As mentioned earlier, high-performance batteries come with a price premium.
It might be overkill for some applications
If your car doesn't demand the extra power, a high-performance battery might be a little excessive.
Potential weight difference
Depending on the technology, some high-performance batteries might be slightly heavier than regular ones, which might mean one less six pack of beer on your next camping trip if you’re watching the weight packed into your vehicle.
What specific features do high-performance car batteries offer?
Now that we’ve talked about general benefits to your car, let’s look at some features of the actual batteries (note, differences vary between makes and models):
- AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology - superior vibration resistance
- GEL technology - resistance to extreme temperatures
- Lithium-ion batteries - weight savings, faster charging and longer lifespans
Are high-performance car batteries compatible with all car models?
Most high-performance batteries are designed to fit in your standard battery tray, making them compatible with a wide range of vehicles. Before you jump right in and change your battery though, it's crucial to check your car's owner's manual for the recommended battery size and specifications before purchasing and installing.
How long do high-performance car batteries last compared to regular batteries?
The lifespan of a high-performance car battery can vary depending on your usage, the brand and the technology incorporated in the battery and in your car. While not always guaranteed, some high-performance batteries usually offer a slightly longer lifespan than regular batteries due to their advanced design and materials.
Are high-performance car batteries better for performance driving?
Yes, high-performance batteries offer a significant advantage for performance driving by providing consistent power, faster recovery and improved reliability under demanding conditions. It's important to note that not all performance needs are created equal. If you're a casual enthusiast who occasionally enjoys spirited driving, a high-performance battery might be overkill.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and your driving style. Hopefully this article has helped you to weigh up the pros and cons of performance car batteries.
