Car Batteries

Car Batteries for Your Vehicle

Buying a new car battery may seem like a simple task. But that’s only an illusion, because the market offers not only products from many different manufacturers, but also batteries that vary in technology, terminal layout, and key parameters. As a reputable automotive store, IC24.UK offers only passenger car batteries from trusted brands. However, before you decide on a specific model, read our short guide on how to choose a battery? We’ll show you what to pay attention to so you can enjoy long and trouble-free operation.

What Is the Role of a Car Battery?

In combustion-engine vehicles, the main role of the battery is to enable engine start. The starter motor is connected directly to the battery. In addition, the electrical energy stored in the battery powers a wide range of systems—from lighting and comfort features to critical safety systems. Most commonly, battery issues appear as starting problems, especially in low temperatures. 

Interestingly, a starter battery is also present in electric vehicles. While traction batteries power the electric motor, the starter battery is responsible for the same functions as in traditional combustion cars.

It’s also worth mentioning that some vehicles use auxiliary batteries. However, these are mainly found in special-purpose vehicles such as ambulances or police cars, as well as in campers. Increasingly, gel batteries are used as auxiliary power sources, although they are not suitable as starter batteries in passenger or commercial vehicles.

Car Battery – Key Parameters

The basic parameters of a car battery are capacity and cold cranking amps (CCA). The third is voltage—currently, nearly 100% of passenger cars use 12V batteries. More powerful 24V systems are found in trucks and buses.

When choosing where to buy a car battery, it’s important to consider terminal polarity—this is a crucial factor that enables proper installation. Most vehicles use standard round terminals. American vehicles often use side-mounted terminals, while some Ford models use rectangular plate-style connectors. There is also a distinction between European and Asian round terminals—the latter are typically smaller and found in Japanese or Korean vehicles.

Car Batteries – Main Technologies

Today, the following types of starter batteries are used in passenger cars:

• Lead-acid batteries.

• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries, an advanced version of lead-acid.

• Enhanced durability batteries (AFB, EFB or ECM).

It’s important to know that vehicles equipped with a start-stop system require AGM or AFB/EFB/ECM batteries. Traditional lead-acid batteries would wear out quickly due to frequent engine starts.

How to Choose a Battery – Summary

In older-generation vehicles, traditional lead-acid batteries are sufficient. Newer models without start-stop systems work well with AGM batteries. For vehicles equipped with start-stop systems, there are only two suitable options. The first is enhanced durability batteries (EFB/AFB/ECM). The second is AGM batteries, which, however, should not be installed in the engine compartment. And gel batteries? They work well as auxiliary power sources but are not suitable for starting cars—they are better used in motorcycles or quads. And where should you buy a car battery? From a trusted automotive store, Inter Cars.

FAQ – Questions and Answers

Can you install a battery with higher capacity than recommended?

You can install a car battery with up to 10% higher capacity than recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. However, this increases the risk of undercharging, which reduces battery lifespan.

What should you do with a used battery?

Used batteries are classified as hazardous waste, but they are also a valuable source of raw materials. Motorcycle, car, and quad batteries should be taken to designated collection points. A convenient solution is also to return your old battery to the store when purchasing a new one.

Where to buy a car battery?

It’s best to buy from specialized automotive stores such as Inter Cars. Our store offers competitive prices as well as a wide selection of brands, types, and models. Varta, Bosch, Exide, Yuasa, 4 Max, ENRG, Furya and Hankook Battery—these brands guarantee reliability.