RainMan12

Looks like my battery is about ready for replacement. I think my tilt sensor alarm research last night probably hastened it's demise. So I've started researching my options.

My 08 needs a BCI Group 85 battery. Costco's used to carry their Group 12 battery that was the correct size, but they no longer stock it anymore. Wal Mart also doesn't carry a Group 85 battery.

So the only other options I have found are:

Super Crank (Deka) at Orielys for $89
Duralast Gold at Autozone for $110
Or the GM battery from the dealer for $150

Does anyone know of any other options for this car? (And no, I'm not interested in an Optima, BTDT, didn't even last a full year).

RainMan12

Oh yea, I forgot about the Odyssey at about $250.

Crowhater

This is what I will be replacing my battery with. We use these batteries on our airboats and they do a great job but weigh almost nothing.

http://http://www.braillebattery.com/


Group 90
B3121C Carbon Fiber $299.00 weight 21 pounds

B3121 standard $188.00 weight 21 pounds

ML30C lithium Battery in Carbo fiber $1950.00 weight 9.3 pounds, this is the same battery corvette racing uses.

JoesC5

I have AutoZone Duralast batteries in all four of my cars. Installed the 90-DLG in my Z06 last month for $113 + tax. 3 year free replacement and a total of 8 years prorated on the Gold's. That's a darn good warranty, especially for the price.

RainMan12

I also found a Bosch at Pep Boys for $102. I'm currently leaning toward the Duralast.

It's too bad Costco doesn't carry the group 12 batteries anymore. They seemed to be about the best bang for the buck.

vetdude

Do an advanced search using "battery replacement" in either the C6 Tech/Performance or C6 General Discussion forums. You'll get more recommendations than you'll know what to do with.

BlueOx

So I guess it is too old school to suggest the Delco Professional 7yr as a replacement?

RainMan12

Been there, done that. Most of them all just suggest the Optima, which I'm not interested in.

I was kind of hoping to be able to start a thread that would have all the different options posted in one thread instead of having to chase down dozens of individual threads.

JoesC5

No, but when you can get a Duralast Gold with a longer warranty for a cheaper price then a Delco, why? 8 years vs 7 years and $110 vs $150.

And if you need to get a battery replaced under warranty, and you're 200 miles from home with a dead battery on a Sunday morning, you will find more AutoZone stores open then you will a store or dealer that carries Delco batteries.

RainMan12

If lightweight is what your after, Shorai makes a 4.9 lb 36 amp/hour 540 CCA battery (Lithium Iron), though I think its intended for motorcycles. Rumor is they are working on car batteries.

http://www.shoraipower.com/p-209-lfx36a3-bs12.aspx

RainMan12

I went to Costco with my ruler and did some measurements of various batteries they have. While they no longer have the Costco Fitment code 12 that is called for (BCI 85) they have their fitment code 3 (BCI 35) that is very close in size and has the proper terminal configuration (length and width are identical). The only difference is it's about 1 inch taller than the BCI 85 but it fits perfectly in the car. The only catch is that it partially blocks the door for replacing the cabin air filter, so you'll have to unbolt the battery and tip it forward, or remove it, to replace the cabin air filter every year or so. But this is probably a good thing, as it also gives you a chance to clean around the battery tray and inspect the battery real good when your changing out the cabin air filter.

It has 640 cold cranking amps, and 800 cranking amps. The Costco item number is 12865 and it comes with a three year replacement warranty.

And here is the best part. It costs $65. It was a no-brainer decision for me.

Its the first battery in the list on this site.
http://www.vaughns-1-pagers.com/loca...-batteries.htm

EVRose

I always use Sears Die Hard. I've never had one die on me. The last one I had in my previous car was 10 years old and still going when I sold it. I replace the GM battery in my '05 with a Die Hard a year ago. I don't like Optima either and I'd stay away from Bosch. They have a bad rep from all I've read about them.

RainMan12

Here are the BCI numbers for dimensions in case you're interested in the exact differences between the 35 and 85

BCI---L------W----H_____L---------W-------H
35---9.1--- 6.9---8.9-- or--230mm 175mm 225mm
85---9.1----6.8---8----or--230mm 173 mm 203mm

So the difference in height is .9 inches, or 22mm.
http://www.batteryweb.com/bci.cfm

For $65, I don't think you'll find a better deal, and the Kirkland batteries Costco sells are some of the best rated ones out there according to Consumer News and others who test them.

C6ToGo

When I need to replace my Group 90, I will look at the Group 96R at WalMart. Same dimensions and CCA for about 75 bucks.

Haven't looked at the mounting tabs to see how it is locked down. It is probably about a half inch longer than your Group 85.

RainMan12

Sears does not carry any Group 85 batteries to fit the C6. The closest you could get would be a group 35, but the Costco Group 35 battery is $40 cheaper than the Sears battery and has a higher CCA rating (nearly 100 amps more) than the Sears battery.

SweetBlueZ51

I went with Advance Auto Parts AutoCraft Gold Battery, Group Size 90T5, 600 CCA (750 Cranking Amps). It cost $124.99 but it's on sale for $105.99 right now. Through May 5, they have a promotion where you save 15% off all orders of $100+, and then get a $50 coupon off a future order — not bad!

If that's not good enough for you or you miss out on that deal, just use this referral link — sign up and get a 40% OFF COUPON e-mailed to you to use on your 1st order!

Specs:

Battery Type: Lead Acid
Cold Cranking Amps: 600 amps
Cranking Amps: 750 amps
Deep Cycle/Starting: Starting
Height: 6 15/16 in
Length: 9 9/16 in
Maintenance Free: Yes
Reserve Capacity: 100 min
Terminal Type: Top Terminal
Voltage: 12 v
Weight: 32 lbs
Width: 6 15/16 in

FortMorganAl

I must admit that is a great deal. You have caused me to rethink what I have done for 20 years which is ALWAYS get an Interstate battery. Interstate has dealers everywhere. There is 1 Advance Auto within 20 miles of me now but over 20 Interstate battery dealers. Interstate batteries have never failed me and I typically get 7 years or more out of a car battery because I tend to maintain them well by never significantly discharging them. But my C6 is over 5 years old now and although it shows no signs of deterioration yet, how can I pass up $106.25 + tax - $50 off a future purchase of $100, a 3 year replacement 7 year prorate, and a battery that seems like it would do fine? You sold me! Ordering now for hopeful pick up this afternoon. Thanks!

RainMan12

At 242mm in length, that looks like it might be too long for some C6's. What year car did you mount this in and did you have any fitment issues?

Wayne O

I don't get all that technical about replacing a battery. Although, my OEM AC/Delco battery provided 4.5 years of faultless service I always get the top of the line AutoZone Duralast batteries for replacements. The Duralast provides exceptional performance and service life; AutoZone has a great warranty; and, their customer service is excellent.

I'm not a fan of Optima batteries. They're fine batteries but from what I've learned the premium you pay doesn't translate into that much of an extended service life, if any.

Gearhead Jim

I've had a good number of Delco batteries that came in GM cars over the years, and always got good service from them. Dealer only wanted $110 for the Delco Professional 7 year last Fall, so I went with that.

But the "ease of replacement under warranty on Sunday" issue is real, no question about it.