Autocraft Battery

Your Car Deserves the Best – How to Choose the Right Autocraft Battery

As a car owner, I know how frustrating it is when your car battery unexpectedly dies. I’ve been stuck in parking lots, stranded on the side of the road, and late to important events all thanks to a dead battery. After going through a few cheap no-name batteries that barely lasted a year, I decided it was time to invest in a quality battery. That’s when I discovered Autocraft batteries.

In this detailed buying guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned after extensively researching Autocraft batteries. You’ll find tips on types of Autocraft batteries, where to buy, expected lifespan, quality, installation, maintenance, reviews, compatible vehicles, pricing, discounts, testing, returns, recycling, cold weather performance, and more. By the end, you’ll be a battery expert ready to choose the perfect Autocraft battery for your car or truck.

Overview of Autocraft Battery Types

Autocraft offers two main types of batteries – traditional lead-acid and absorbent glass mat (AGM). Within each type, there are also several battery group sizes that fit different makes and models.

Lead-acid batteries are the traditional “wet cell” type battery with liquid sulfuric acid electrolyte. They have removable vent caps for maintenance and require checking fluid levels. Lead-acid types include:

• Standard flooded batteries
• Low maintenance batteries
• Deep cycle batteries

AGM batteries use absorptive glass mats between the lead plates to immobilize the electrolyte. This makes them spillproof and maintenance-free. AGM types include:

• Powersport batteries
• Premium starting batteries
• Platinum batteries

Within each style, Autocraft offers group sizes ranging from 34 to 65 (and more) to match OEM specifications. Common sizes are 24F, 35, 58, and 75. The group number signifies physical dimensions. Higher numbers are bigger batteries for larger vehicles.

Knowing your car’s original OEM battery group size is important for finding the right Autocraft replacement. Checking your owner’s manual or an online fit guide will determine the correct group size battery.

Where to Purchase Autocraft Batteries

The best place to buy Autocraft batteries is at O’Reilly Auto Parts locations and online at oreillyauto.com. As one of the major Autocraft battery retailers, O’Reilly offers the full product lineup and specialty batteries for many European and Asian vehicle makes.

O’Reilly has a battery finder tool on their website to identify the specific battery fitment for your car by entering the year, make and model. This takes the guesswork out of choosing the right Autocraft battery. O’Reilly stores also have knowledgable staff to assist in finding the optimal battery.

In addition to O’Reilly, Autocraft batteries can be found at some Walmart stores and ordered online. However, the selection is smaller than specialty retailers. I recommend the advice and service you’ll get from battery experts at O’Reilly.

How Long Can You Expect an Autocraft Battery to Last?

With proper maintenance, most Autocraft batteries will last 3-5 years before needing replacement. However, lifespan varies based on battery type, vehicle demands, climate, and operating conditions.

Here are some general lifespan estimates based on my experience:

• Standard flooded lead-acid – 3-4 years is typical. Heat reduces life expectancy.
• Low-maintenance lead acid – Up to 5 years in moderate climates. Lower maintenance prolongs life.
• AGM batteries – 4-5 years on average. Better for frequent stop/start driving.
• Deep cycle batteries – 4-8 years. Designed for repeated deep discharge.

Driving habits that drain the battery frequently, extreme climates, old age, and poor maintenance will decrease lifespan. Investing in a premium Autocraft AGM or Platinum battery can extend service life by 1-2 years over cheaper versions.

My advice is to buy the highest quality Autocraft battery you can afford. Going cheap often leads to early failure. A top-tier battery from Autocraft will deliver years of reliable starts.

The Good and Bad – My Assessment of Autocraft Battery Quality

In general, I would rate Autocraft batteries as good quality. They are not luxury tier batteries but provide reliable performance at a reasonable price point. Here is a summary of my pros and cons:

Pros

• Wide range of battery types and group sizes
• Good cold cranking amps and reserve capacity
• Decent life expectancy with proper care
• Affordable pricing compared to premium brands
• Readily available at O’Reilly stores

Cons

• Lower tiers have shorter lifespans
• AGM and Platinum cost more than base models
• Not optimized for frequent stop/start vehicles
• Minimal warranty coverage

While you can likely find a longer lasting or higher performing battery, I think Autocraft offers the best bang for your buck. As long as you choose the right battery for your vehicle and driving needs, Autocraft is a smart choice.

Step-by-Step Installation of an Autocraft Battery

Installing an Autocraft battery to replace your old one is straightforward. Just follow these steps for safe and proper installation:

Supplies Needed

• Appropriate box end wrench for terminal clamps
• Terminal cleaner tool or wire brush
• Baking soda and water solution
• Voltmeter

Installation Steps

1. Use wrench to loosen and remove negative (-) terminal clamp from old battery.
2. Repeat process to remove positive (+) terminal clamp.
3. Carefully remove old battery from tray without tipping. Place aside.
4. Clean terminal clamps and battery tray with baking soda/water solution.
5. Let clamps dry completely so no baking soda remains.
6. Check voltmeter to confirm car electrical system is off.
7. Place new Autocraft battery into tray, ensuring proper positioning.
8. Attach positive red (+) terminal clamp tightly on new battery.
9. Attach negative black (-) terminal clamp tightly.
10. Dispose of old battery properly. Do not throw in trash.
11. Start vehicle and confirm proper operation.

Be sure to get the terminal polarity right or you can damage electrical systems. Always disconnect the negative terminal first and reconnect it last. Follow any additional precautions in your owner’s manual.

Limited Warranty Information on Autocraft Batteries

One downside to Autocraft batteries is the rather limited warranty coverage compared to premium brands. Here is a quick overview of the warranty terms:

• Standard warranty – Just 12 months for parts replacement
• Free replacement – Within first 90 days for defects
• Pro-rated – After 90 days, refund % based on months left

So realistically you have about 3 months to detect any manufacturing defects. Some Autocraft AGM and Platinum batteries may have extended 18-24 month warranties, so check coverage for those models.

My advice is to thoroughly test and charge your new battery shortly after purchase. That way any early failures will be detected within the warranty window. Don’t wait until your car won’t start to check the battery!

Keep Your Battery Going with Proper Maintenance

To maximize the lifespan of your Autocraft battery, be diligent about maintenance and care. Here are my top maintenance tips:

Monthly

• Inspect terminals for corrosion and clean if needed
• Check tie downs are tight
• For wet lead acid, check fill levels and fill with distilled water as needed

Every 3 Months

• Wash dirt and grime from battery top and tray with a baking soda solution
• Apply a corrosion preventative spray on terminals

When parked

• Disconnect negative terminal if parked more than 2 weeks to prevent drain

After jump starts

• Recharge battery immediately and test to confirm full charge

Before winter

• Test battery and recharge to maximize cold cranking power

Don’t forget proper recycling when it does eventually come time to replace your Autocraft battery. Maintaining your battery from the start will help ensure you get the full lifespan possible.

What Are People Saying? Reviews of Autocraft Batteries

Before buying my latest Autocraft battery, I did quite a bit of research to see real-world experiences from other customers. Overall, reviews of Autocraft automotive batteries are generally positive. Here are some common themes:

Positive Feedback

• Good value for affordable price point
• Batteries tested to high CCA standards
• Easy to find exact fitment for most vehicles
• Good performance in hot weather
• Decent lifespan when properly maintained

Negative Feedback

• Quality difference between tiers of models
• Shorter lifespan compared to premium brands
• Minimal warranty coverage
• Not ideal for frequent stop/start vehicles
• Cold weather performance just average

Many reviews mentioned getting 4-5 years from mid-tier AGM models with proper care. For a reasonably priced battery, most seemed happy with the service life and value. Just don’t expect ultra-premium performance or 15-year lifespans from budget-priced options.

Matching the Right Autocraft Battery to Your Vehicle

As mentioned earlier, choosing the correct group size battery made specifically for your car’s make and model is key to optimal performance. Here are some tips on getting an ideal fit:

• Check your owner’s manual for the recommended OEM group size
• Use the O’Reilly battery finder with your vehicle info
• Look for your car listed under “fitment notes” for each battery
• Choose an Autocraft model that matches your original specification

Batteries are engineered differently based on the vehicle demands. Getting one with the target CCA, RC, and other technical aspects ensures proper starting and power. Don’t just swap in a similar sized battery without checking fitment. Model-specific Autocraft batteries are tested to deliver OEM quality that you can rely on.

Charging Your Autocraft Battery for Maximum Performance

Keeping your Autocraft battery fully charged is one of the best ways to maximize its performance and lifespan. Here are battery charging tips:

• Use a proper voltage charger, usually 12V or 6V
• Disconnect battery from vehicle before charging
• Charge in a ventilated area away from sparks
• Periodically check state of charge with a voltmeter
• Limit initial charge current to no more than 20% of Ah rating
• Charge until voltage stops increasing for 2-3 hours
• After charging, allow battery to rest before reinstalling

For maintenance charging, use a trickle charger to restore 100% charge. Never let your battery sit in a low or dead state for extended periods. Frequent charging helps batteries last years longer.

What’s the Price Range for Autocraft Batteries?

As an economy to mid-grade battery brand, Autocraft batteries are quite affordable. Here are some typical prices I found in my research:

• Basic flooded lead-acid – $50 to $90
• Low-maintenance lead acid – $60 to $120
• AGM starting batteries – $100 to $200
• AGM deep cycle – $150 to $250
• Premium platinum models – $250 to $400

Brick-and-mortar stores like O’Reilly may be priced slightly higher than online. When I needed a new battery fast, I opted for the convenience of in-store purchase. Expect to pay a small premium for that immediate access when you have a dead battery.

For budget buyers, the base Autocraft models offer decent performance at low prices. Moving up to AGM and platinum line adds more longevity for just a bit higher cost. Overall, very reasonable prices from my viewpoint.

Save Money on Autocraft Batteries with Discounts and Rebates

While Autocraft batteries are already affordable, you can often save even more through discounts, rebates, and promotions. Here are some tips for getting the best deal:

• Watch for holiday sales around major events like July 4th or Memorial Day
• Sign up for email alerts from O’Reilly to receive notification of sales
• Ask about current rebates or coupons before you buy
• See if any competing retailers are price matching
• Purchase ahead of peak winter cold to avoid premium prices
• Consider gently used batteries to save on new models

With a little strategic timing and savvy shopping, you can land some excellent discounts. I saved over $50 on a premium AGM by buying around Black Friday. A little patience and planning pays off!

Testing Your New Battery for Peace of Mind

Once you purchase and install your new Autocraft battery, be sure to test it for proper operation and charge level. Here is a simple testing procedure:

Steps to Test Charge Level

1. Allow battery to sit overnight without charging after install
2. Use a voltmeter on battery terminals
3. Check voltage – should be 12.4V or higher
4. If below 12.2V, battery needs additional charging
5. Recharge as needed until voltage exceeds 12.4V

You also want to physically test the battery under starter load:

• With voltmeter attached, have assistant crank engine for 5-10 seconds
• Voltage should stay above 9.5V during cranking
• Lower readings indicate weak charge and need for additional charging

Testing your new battery gives assurance the charging system is working correctly before relying on it alone. Don’t just assume the new battery is good out of the box – confirm it!

What to Know About Returning an Autocraft Battery

If your new Autocraft battery ends up being faulty or the wrong fitment, you will want to know the return policy. Here are some key points:

• Must be within the 90 day free replacement period
• Requires original receipt for refund/exchange
• Refunds prorated after 30 days based on usable life left
• Generally only redeemable at original place of purchase

So don’t throw away your receipt after buying an Autocraft battery! File it in your glovebox in case you need to return the battery within the policy window. Also note that Autozone’s return policy for Autocraft batteries may differ from O’Reilly’s – check before you buy.

Proper Disposal and Recycling of Autocraft Batteries

When it’s time to replace your old Autocraft battery, don’t just throw it in the trash! Batteries must be recycled responsibly to avoid environmental contamination from lead and acid. Here are safe recycling options:

• Return old battery to O’Reilly or other retailer for recycling
• Locate a battery recycling center in your community
• Contact your city about hazardous waste disposal days
• Use an e-Stewards certified electronics recycler
• Avoid CURB recycling dumps which can damage batteries

O’Reilly will even give you a discount on your new Autocraft battery when you return the old one for recycling. Do your part to keep spent batteries out of landfills!

Using Autocraft Batteries in Cold Weather Conditions

If you live in a region with extremely cold winters, you’ll want an Autocraft battery built to handle lower temperatures. Look for models with “Cold Cranking Amps” exceeding 1000 for the best cold weather performance.

Also be diligent about:

• Fully charging battery before winter hits
• Checking charge level monthly
• Allowing vehicle to warm up before driving
• Parking in garages to limit cold exposure

Avoid using the headlights and accessories before starting in cold weather. The Autocraft AGM and platinum lines offer the best power output at sub-zero temperatures over standard lead-acid options. Invest in maximum CCA for pain-free winter starts.

Autocraft Gold vs Silver – What’s the Difference?

When shopping Autocraft batteries, you may notice some labelled “Gold” or “Silver”. What do these mean? Here is the basic distinction:

• Gold – Better quality, higher performance, longer service life
• Silver – Entry level, basic functionality, cheaper prices

Gold batteries use thicker lead plates, lower internal resistance, and advanced components. They also have higher cold cranking performance. Silver are more budget-friendly with thinner plates and cheaper construction.

I recommend Gold level Autocraft batteries if you can afford the small upgrade in cost. The performance and longevity gains of the Gold models make them well worth it over Silver tier. Go Gold if you want a battery that will last!

Discard Old Batteries Safely – Handling Battery Acid and Lead

Over time, lead acid batteries can leak battery acid. Use extreme caution when handling old batteries and battery acid:

• Wear gloves, goggles, and protective clothing
• Avoid touching or breathing any leaked acid/fumes
• Neutralize acid with baking soda and water solution
• Contain and transport old batteries upright to avoid spills
• Recycle responsibly following hazardous waste guidelines

Battery acid is highly corrosive and toxic. Do not attempt to open lead-acid battery cases. Make safety the top priority when discarding old automotive batteries. The extra precautions are well worth avoiding potential burns or poisoning.

Are Autocraft Batteries Truly Maintenance Free?

Strictly speaking, no lead acid battery is 100% maintenance free. However, AGM and some sealed models require very minimal maintenance compared to traditional wet batteries.

Autocraft AGM and platinum batteries are:

• Sealed – No checking fluid levels needed
• Spillproof – Mount in any orientation
• Recombinant – No venting of gases required

But things like cleaning terminals, checking connections, testing charge, and recharging still apply. I suggest checking your AGM Autocraft at least monthly for signs of corrosion, loose connections or swelling. “Maintenance-free” doesn’t mean install and forget!

Finding the Perfect Autocraft Battery for Your Vehicle

Choosing the ideal Autocraft battery for your car, truck, or SUV can seem complicated. But following these tips will simplify the process:

• Determine the group size your vehicle requires
• Choose the right design – flooded, AGM, deep cycle, etc.
• Match the CCA an RC ratings to OEM specification
• Select the highest quality tier you can afford
• Check for a model made specifically for your vehicle
• Use O’Reilly’s online battery finder tool
• Consult a professional O’Reilly battery expert

Investing in the proper Autocraft battery engineered for your make and model will give you years of trouble-free starts. Take the time to research and make the right selection. Your vehicle’s electrical system will thank you!

The Bottom Line – Autocraft Batteries Are a Solid Choice

For drivers looking for reliable starting power at reasonable prices, Autocraft batteries deliver. They may lack the premium pedigree and long warranties of high-end brands, but represent a great value overall. Just be sure to choose the right purpose-built model for your specific vehicle rather than a generic one-size-fits-all.

Follow my tips in this in-depth buying guide when selecting, installing, and maintaining your next Autocraft battery purchase. Take advantage of special discounts and rebates when available to maximize savings. With proper care and charging habits, an Autocraft battery will provide years of worry-free starts. Your car’s electrical system is too important to trust with cheap no-name batteries. Invest in quality starting power with trusted Autocraft products matched to your vehicle’s needs.