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This is the battery in my car, well currently out of my car. Sticker on top says 1/19 so it is not too old.
Question is; Aren't we supposed to have AWG batteries? I don't see anywhere that it says AWG. I do not see any acid leaking to the underside, which I know is bad, very bad!
So assuming I will need to update, what are your thoughts on the Optima's?
Yes, I believe the factory OEM batteries were “AGM” but lead acid batteries if used 20 years ago did have leakage issues..I think your 75 series battery you do have right now may be a little “under rated” for your ‘03…I highly recommend the 88865789/ AC Delco 78PSHR Professional Silver High Reserve !!…140 minute RC (Reserve Capacity).
Optimas used to be great. Then, quite a number of years ago - they made some changes, and their quality went downhill.
I used to be an Optima fan - but one Optima that died within two weeks of me installing it, another one that didn't make it three years, and a third that also failed within 3 years turned me completely off. I still believe in AGM batteries - but now I tend to think that Deka (a.k.a East Penn Mfg) - is probably a much better choice. Deka is who currently supplies NAPA's AGM batteries. As with everything - Your mileage may vary...
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I had two Optima Red Tops - one lasted better than 7 years and was still working fine when I sold the car. The other was just past the 3 year mark when it failed.
FWIW group 78 will fit an '01 also, even though it's spec'd to take group 75. Just a couple weeks ago I put an O'Reilly's Sure Start Platinum (AGM) Group 78 into my '01 Z. Also the previous battery was a lead acid Duracell Group 78 (courtesy of previous owner).
I have had Optima Red Tops and Sears Platinum in the past, but have great luck with this one (although pricy). None of the previous batteries failed to start the car, but at times would fail tests.
O'Reily's Super Start is a re-stickered Deka battery. So is the Duracell sold at Sam's - same battery, different sticker. I run the 34/78 dual terminal in my car and it's been fine. First one lasted 6 years (two different cars) in Florida and was only $170 so I called that a win.
No joke, I just replaced my Wal-Mart Ever-Start that I bought in a pinch back in 2012. The battery lasted 9 years using a trickle charger.
Do some research and you will see that the batteries offered at Wally World rated highly across the board. My original AGM battery lasted almost 10 years with the help of a trickle charger and I have just installed my second "wet cell" EverStart recently. Both the Everstarts have been dependable.
100% go with an AGM. It's just good practice to be certain that it won't leak. Beyond that, Any battery that meets spec will be fine. I have been happy with the Red Top in my '04.
100% go with an AGM. It's just good practice to be certain that it won't leak. Beyond that, Any battery that meets spec will be fine. I have been happy with the Red Top in my '04.
I can't recommend more than to get an AGM battery over a lead acid battery. Do a search in the C5 General Forum and you'll see plenty of horror stories of lead acid batteries leaking and causing havoc. Sure, an AGM costs more, but having piece of mind is more than worth it. I personally like Optima's Yellow Top. Two of my C5s have them and the other C5 has a Red Top.
This is the battery I use, D34/78
Daddy o
OK, what about the04’s with top posts? Any suggestions or opinions?
Also recommend an 'acid absorbing' mat under the battery. I don't have one, yet. But as soon as I'd practical, I'm going to. Just extra insurance. I'm also wondering if anyone has tried any sort of 'gel' type battery? Or was/is the Optima a gel type? I had one on a snowmobile once (gives away my locale!!), and it lasted a long time, and can be mounted anywhere (within reason), on its side, or, according to the dealer, even upside down, if need be........
Replaced my dead Interstate lead/acid battery with a "Super Start Platinum" Group 78 AGM battery from O'Reilly 's. ($214 - ouch!)
2 weeks ago I got that same exact battery for $184 shipped (including tax) to my doorstep after returning the core. https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c...and=true&pos=3
$200 + core
15% off coupon code "DRIVE15" (it's the top banner on their website)
Free shipping because of cost (they can ship AGM batteries no problem), and in my case it arrived the next day
$170 + core + tax
Then take your old battery back
Last edited by MetalMan2; Aug 17, 2021 at 11:13 AM.
Battery?
