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Hi,
Time to replace the battery in my 2002 Z06.
I currently have a small weight savings Odyssey dry cell battery in the car.
Going with a traditional size battery this time.
Question is about "AGM" batteries.
Does the "AGM" feature prevent leaking acid?
I know the computer on C5's sit below the battery tray so leaking acid on to the computer concerns me.
Looking at the Optima Red Top and Yellow Top.
Do these Optimas fit with the stock battery tray mounting?
Is it worth it to go with these as opposed to less expensive choices with the "AGM" feature?
Thanks,
Silverbird
Batteries discussions are as bad as oil discussions on here.. I've never had a problem with Optima in my C5 but others experiences may vary. Go with an AGM type battery... what brand you use is completely up to you and your tastes.
I'm using an Optima RT in my 02Z, part # 8004-003. I've been using this same part # in all my GM vehicles for the past 25 years with all of them lasting at least 8 years, most of them 10+ years. Optima quality got worse when they switched mfg to Mexico years back, but it seems to be better again, maybe tighter qc? I've never had a failure, but have met people who have which is probably the case with any battery manufacturer.
Optima red top here with 0 problems to date (approximately 2 years).
Fits in the battery tray without any issues.
Like others, I really recommend the AGM as a safety feature since, as you point out, the computer is below your battery box.
IMHO, what is best battery comments fall into the same category as tires, wax/polishes, brake pads, suspension parts, etc. The comments depend on your experience with a product. I personally have an OME Delco battery that soon will be working towards 5 years old. I have had ‘0’ problems but will replace at 5 years old. This is just my procedure for all my cars after being stranded trying to get the last ounce of power from an old battery and listening to my wife that was with me.
Optima red top here with 0 problems to date (approximately 2 years).
Fits in the battery tray without any issues.
Like others, I really recommend the AGM as a safety feature since, as you point out, the computer is below your battery box.
Three years so far with my Optima Redtop with CTEK maintainer
Last edited by Ceedub53; Jul 12, 2018 at 04:26 PM.
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I had two Optima Red Tops - one lasted for better than 7 years and was still doing well when I sold the car. The other was in my current car when I bought it and in its 37th month of use it died and had to be replaced. I went with a Sears Diehard Platinum and have used it now for almost 8 years. I would look at the AGM batteries - they are not prone to leaking like a lead acid battery.
My Exide battery which is now 51 months old, and was in the car when I bought it, will be replaced next spring. In the past I always used Sears DieHard Platinum and nothing else. Will probably try the optima battery next time!
I've owned lots of Optima batteries. The red top is okay if you keep it charged all the time. I've had better luck with the yellow tops. I also have massive stereos in my vehicles so the yellow tops do a better job there.
New Battery Time
