When it comes to “how much does a car battery weigh?”, there are many factors to consider. Different types of batteries have different weights, and even within the same type of battery, weight can vary depending on the size and construction of the battery.
Why is weight a factor? What is the weight distribution? And why are batteries so heavy in the first place? In this article, we will explore these questions and more!
How much does a car battery weigh, you may be wondering? On average, a typical automobile battery weighs around 40 pounds. This is the most popular flooded lead-acid variety.
There will be many examples of lighter and heavier batteries, but the majority will fall within a weight range of 35 to 45 pounds.
Types of Batteries
The answer to “how much does a car battery weigh?” depends on the type of the battery as well. There are mainly 4 batteries used around the globe.
1. Lithium-ion Batteries
You probably won’t believe how expensive, efficient, and lightweight batteries you’ll come across when you start searching for them on the basis of weight.
For those who want batteries for their racing cars, the Optima is an excellent option because it only weighs 10 pounds and doesn’t have a sloshing solution that would move around when you commit to each turn.
For those that participate in major desert races, one of the main concerns is that they will not be able to start their car even if it’s traveling 100 miles per hour over potholes and streams.
2. Absorbent Glass Mat
The AGM battery is another popular type of battery. This is a spill-proof, more efficient battery with absorbent fiberglass to contain the electrolyte solution, making it ideal for stop-start applications.
AGM batteries are generally lighter in weight and more expensive than traditional lead-acid batteries, but they last 2-3 times longer and are far more dependable. This is the one to be a preferable pick. And as the old phrase go, buy once and cry once, right?
3. Flooded Lead Acid Batteries
This is the most popular and longest-lasting kind of “Wet-Cell” battery. It’s the most cost-effective option and comprises six cells in an electrolyte solution. If spilled, it must be installed vertically to avoid leaking the solution.
These are rechargeable batteries that can be recharged with a pair of lead-acid batteries. The output voltage of this type of battery is usually 12.6V, although it may differ in certain situations.
To keep the battery potent, it must be refilled with an electrolyte solution after running out. This is due to the fact that during discharge, water is used up from the electrolyte and needs to be replaced.
The 12V battery is the most popular type, as it is readily available and simple to install. Since every auto parts store has a battery for your automobile, you may have someone assist you in the parking lot!
If you’re planning on replacing your own battery, be sure to keep it vertical rather than laying it in the open to prevent electrolyte liquid from spilling out. This will make things a lot easier.
4. Enhanced Flooded Battery
The enhanced flooded battery, often known as a high-performance wet cell battery, is an improved wet cell battery that employs a narrower grid and bigger cells to enhance the overall reactive surface of the battery.
As a result of all this, the NAPA or Autozone battery you get provides only around half the “Cold Cranking Amps” as the typical battery.
Why is Weight a Factor?
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, the more you add to it, the less efficient your car becomes.
With a heavier automobile, you’ll need to burn more gas or electricity to achieve the same amount of movement. This means your car won’t accelerate as rapidly, and your fuel efficiency will suffer, resulting in additional expenses in the long run.
The same laws apply to your battery. Your vehicle will be significantly heavier if you use a heavier battery.
The Wet-Cell or lead-acid batteries are generally heavier since they are easier to create, less costly, and less refined. This usually implies that they are heavy in the “car world.”
What is Weight Distribution?
With sports cars, it all comes down to weight distribution. If you can move 40 pounds of battery from the front of the car (where there is more weight) to the back, you’ll have “better weight distribution.”
All cars, regardless of make or model, require a proportionate amount of mass to be distributed throughout their four wheels in order for the suspension and other components to function correctly.
This ensures that you retain traction when you brake quickly because the tires will have some force to push the rubber onto the road.
Cars generally have more weight over the front wheels due to the fact that this is where the engine, gearbox, cooling system, intake, steering rack, and other heavy equipment assist you in reaching your destination.
The majority of automobiles will have a bias towards the front of the vehicle when turning, accelerating, and braking. If you’re carrying too much weight in the front and not enough in the back, your automobile won’t be balanced.
Why are Batteries Heavy and is it Good?
Batteries are so enormous because they usually contain heavy lead battery cells. Then you must consider that it’s typically a 12 x 8 x 5 container filled with lead and electrolyte solution, making it very hefty.
There have been improvements in battery weight, but not as much as you might imagine when you see their names. AGM, Gel, and Lithium-Ion batteries are all at least 40 percent lighter than regular ones while costing considerably more.
Is it better to be heavy? Not necessarily. A heavier battery will almost certainly be less expensive and more readily available in your region if they are both the same size.
However, when it comes to durability, cold-cranking amps, and overall power, the lighter-weight batteries will be superior.
The only problem here is cost since the lighter batteries will be more expensive and harder to come by for typical customers.
Weight of Different Car Batteries
Here are some examples of battery weights found in many of the top-selling cars.
- Audi A5: 57.3 lbs
- BMW 3-Series: 45.3 lbs
- Chevy Silverado 1500: 42.1 lbs
- Ford Mustang: 32.0 lbs
- Honda CR-V: 39.0 lbs
- Toyota Corolla: 33.5 lbs
- Jeep Wrangler: 53.6 lbs
- Dodge Charger: 42.9 lbs
Conclusion
As you can see, there is a wide range of battery weights depending on the vehicle. The weight of the battery is a factor to consider when it comes to your car’s performance and fuel efficiency. Lighter batteries are usually more expensive, but they offer better overall power and durability.
When it comes to weight distribution, it’s important to have a balance between the front and back wheels. Too much weight in the front or back can throw off your car’s suspension and cause problems when braking quickly or turning corners.
FAQs
How heavy is a car battery?
It depends on the type of battery and the car. Lighter batteries typically cost more but offer better overall power and durability. It’s important to have a balance between the front and back wheels when it comes to weight distribution. But, a battery will be around 30-40 lbs.
Are heavier batteries better?
It all depends on what you’re going for. A heavier battery may be less expensive and more readily available in your region, but a lighter battery will offer longer run times and greater overall power.
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