• How does a battery work?

    A battery stores energy in a chemical form that can be released on demand as electricity. This electrical power is used by the vehicle's ignition system for cranking the engine. The vehicle's battery may also power the lights and other electrical accessories. In case the alternator belt fails, the battery might also need to power the vehicle's entire electrical system for a short period of time.

  • What should I consider when buying a battery?

    SIZE: What are the dimensions of your original battery?
    POWER: What are the Cold Cranking Amps required to power your vehicle?
    WARRANTY: Automotive batteries are backed by a warranty package. Choose one that is right for your vehicle's needs.

  • When I am replacing my battery or cleaning the terminals, why is it important to remove the ground wire first?

    Before you start, always check the type of grounding system the vehicle has. If you remove the positive connector first in a negative ground system, you risk the chance of creating a spark. That could happen if the metal tool you're using to remove the positive terminal connector comes in contact with any piece of metal on the car. If you are working near the battery when this occurs, it might create an ignition source that could cause the battery to explode. It is extremely important to remove the ground source first.

  • What does CCA mean?

    Cold Cranking Amps is a rating used in the battery industry to define a battery's ability to start an engine in cold temperatures. The rating is the number of amps a new, fully charged battery can deliver at 0° F for 30 seconds, while maintaining a voltage of at least 7.2 volts, for a 12-volt battery. The higher the CCA rating, the greater the starting power of the battery.

  • What do MCA or CA rate?

    This is a rating used to describe the discharge load in amperes which a new, fully charged battery at 32° F (0° C), can continuously deliver for 30 seconds and maintain a terminal voltage equal to or greater than 1.2 volts per cell. It is sometimes referred to as Marine Cranking Amps or Cranking Amps.

  • What is Reserve Capacity?

    Reserve Capacity (RC) is a battery industry rating defining a battery's ability to power a vehicle with an inoperative alternator or fan belt. The rating is the number of minutes in which a battery at 80° F can be discharged at 25 amps and maintain a voltage of 10.5 volts for a 12-volt battery. The higher the reserve rating, the longer your vehicle can operate should your alternator or fan belt fail.

  • What can excessive heat do to battery?

    Hot temperatures will deteriorate a battery's life quicker by evaporating the water from the electrolyte and corroding and weakening the positive grids.

  • When my vehicle doesn't start, how do I know for sure that my battery needs to be replaced?

    Many other problems can keep a vehicle from starting, so you need to do some troubleshooting. Amaron PitStops that sell batteries and a host of other products will often do battery testing and give you feedback on the condition of your battery.