Consumer Reports' Latest Car Battery Test Finds Some Bargain Performers

Consumer Reports latest car battery test shows that you don't have to spend a fortune to get a top performer. In fact, the tests show that some $75 models work as well or better as competitors at twice the price.

"The ratings include 40 different models in five popular group sizes to fit most cars, SUVs, and pickups, and include draining and recharging each battery 3,000 times, testing their strength at freezing temperatures, and measuring how long they hold their current under load.

"With winter coming, now is an excellent time to have your battery checked as part of an annual charging system checkup, especially if it's two years old and you live in a warm climate or four years old and you live where it gets cold. Contrary to what you might think, hot temperatures are harder on batteries than cold temperatures."

Read the complete Consumer Reports article.

And according to GM's Mr. Goodwrench, "cold weather affects battery efficiency. Most cold-weather breakdowns occur because batteries aren't delivering full cranking power. Also check to make sure battery cables are corrosion-free."

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