In most cases, it’s best to stick to the factory parts for your car. That way, you ensure good compatibility among various components and optimize maintenance costs. But sometimes, aftermarket and non-standard parts can yield better performance while extending repair cycle durations.
One such component is the deep-cycle battery. While you may not find it stocked at your local service station, it can prove beneficial if compatible with your driving habits. In this piece, we’ll explore whether you can use deep-cycle batteries in regular cars and the best variants available in the market.
What Is a Deep Cycle Battery in a Car?
Deep cycle batteries have the unique characteristic of utilizing up to 80% of their total capacity before discharge. That’s more impressive than your average lead-acid battery, which usually gives up after a 40% discharge. The extensive charge/recharge capacity makes it perfect for marine applications. After all, it’s challenging to come across a service station in the middle of the ocean.
A few cars and trucks also use deep-cycle batteries to provide a consistent energy supply to the vehicle. However, there are various other parameters you need to consider before you can buy a deep-cycle battery for your car.
The energy capacity is balanced by reducing the current capacity when the engine starts. That’s why it’s best to consult with an expert before using a deep-cycle battery in your car. You can find the list of our best picks later in this guide.
When Should You Use a Deep Cycle Battery?
When switching to a deep cycle battery, you trade in a few CCAs (Cold Cranking Amps). As such, a deep-cycle battery is suitable for a car under the following conditions
- The car doesn’t undergo cold or freezing conditions frequently.
- No issues persist with the alternator or the solenoid to charge the battery.
- Your vehicle can start the engine with 500 A of DC supply.
Types of Deep Cycle Batteries in a Car
There are four primary types of deep-cycle batteries that you can buy from your nearest electrical store.
Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries
Flooded Lead-Acid (FLA) batteries share a common electrolyte among all the cells. Thus, the magnitude of battery capacity depends upon the concentration of the acid. It’s the least expensive version you can purchase, although it is also the least reliable and has the shortest lifespan.
Gel Batteries
These batteries have electrodes suspended in a silica-based gel that allows more conductivity and reduces the corrosion at the terminals. Gel batteries are best for SUVs and motorcycles as they can withstand intense impacts and shocks without compromising safety.
AGM Batteries
AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries constitute the most significant market of deep cycle batteries. You can conveniently find one that suits your requirements. A typical AGM battery can last over ten years, even with minimal maintenance. The best part is that you can use the same battery for multiple vehicles due to a flexible fit.
Li-ion Batteries
If you want batteries that can operate close to 5% capacity, you should go for Li-ion batteries. They can be built specifically for all types of applications and have excellent thermal resistance. A 48V Li-ion battery can last for more than 20 years.
Best Deep Cycle Battery Used for Cars
Given that hundreds of manufacturers offer deep-cycle batteries, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your car. Fortunately, we have our top picks you can order online or purchase from your nearest Walmart.
ExpertPower Rechargeable Deep Cycle Battery
ExpertPower offers a 12-Volt 33 Ah rechargeable deep cycle battery that suits multiple applications. You can install it in your car, use it as a power backup, or set up a solar energy reserve.
Optima D34M BlueTop Deep Cycle Marine Battery
With a 750 CCA rating, the OPT 8016-103 deep cycle battery is fit for road vehicles and boats alike. It grants the user a reserve capacity of 120 minutes, enabling them to escape strenuous situations without breaking a sweat.
Renogy Deep Cycle AGM Battery
If you desire a deep cycle battery that you can use domestically and on an RV, then Renogy has you covered. The Australian manufacturer creates the most robust AGM batteries available online. Sure, it takes a few days to reach you, but you never have to worry about the battery going dead for at least five years.
Things To Know When Choosing a Deep Cycle Battery
While they seem like the perfect choice, you might not need a deep-cycle battery for your particular vehicle. You need to consider the following criteria before deciding on the correct battery variant for your car.
- Study the power requirements of your vehicle in detail. Pay close attention to the precise current and voltage requirements.
- Deep cycle batteries are often lighter and more compact than their regular counterparts. So, ensure that your car’s battery bay is sturdy enough.
- Maintenance is an essential part of deep-cycle battery usage. You don’t need to open the top regularly, but it’s best to prevent any cracks or leaks in the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if You Put a Deep Cycle Battery in a Car?
A deep-cycle battery has a longer lifespan and more energy capacity than a regular battery. Therefore, it requires less maintenance while delivering stable power. The only downside is that you have lower CCA available on ignition.
Is It OK To Use a Deep Cycle Battery in a Car?
Yes, so far as your car’s energy requirements fit those mentioned on the packaging. It helps to check the printed labels before connecting the battery to your car.
Can You Put a Deep Cycle Marine Battery in a Car?
Yes, provided that the battery fits within the engine bay and supplies enough current to commence ignition.
Can You Use a Deep Cycle Battery in a Regular Car?
Typically, manufacturers don’t support deep-cycle batteries for their vehicles, which are often too expensive. Still, you can use deep-cycle batteries in a regular car if it fulfills the energy requirements.
Conclusion
And that concludes our comprehensive guide to cover this neat piece of technology. We hope you can finally answer the question, ‘Can you use a deep cycle battery in a car?’ Just make sure to examine the specs of your car thoroughly before placing an order.
