[Euro] Replacement battery suggestions

[yfin]

To cut a long story short, I am away for 12 months and my dad is looking after my car to keep it going with the odd trip around town. Now he has been away for a few months -with 5 weeks to go - and he left looking after my Euro to my sister (just starting it every week in the garage - not being driven).

Anyway, I just found out that the battery is dead on the car and it doesn't start. My dad says he will get it tested when he is back home but the battery may need to be replaced. Apparently, he said - some batteries once they are fully drained never hold a full charge again. :confused: (he is a retired motor mechanic so I'll take his word for it)

So looking for recommendations please on replacement batteries for the Euro. Something a bit stronger than the original would be good - might help that occassional slow start. Damn, now the engine is just going to sit there unstarted for 5 weeks.

[destrukshn]

are yous still running the one coming from factory?
if so, the replacement batteries that honda supply are acdelco batteries, which are great battery, and come with a 1 year warranty.
BUT, i would suggest a supercharge gold, even better battery, with a 3 year warranty.
=)

the ones that come out of jap are crap btw.
lol.
=)

[aaronng]

What your dad says is true. The only lead-acid batteries that can withstand being drained is a deep discharge battery. You can look at Odyssey batteries. They have a range of deep discharge batteries.

With your car being parked, I would have thought that starting it once a month would have been a better choice. If the car is being started and not driven around, then the battery's charge is used to start the engine but it never gets a chance to fully recharge. So a weekly start would have been too often.

[destrukshn]

What your dad says is true. The only lead-acid batteries that can withstand being drained is a deep discharge battery. You can look at Odyssey batteries. They have a range of deep discharge batteries.

With your car being parked, I would have thought that starting it once a month would have been a better choice. If the car is being started and not driven around, then the battery's charge is used to start the engine but it never gets a chance to fully recharge. So a weekly start would have been too often.
a odyssey battery would be a excellent option.
but he doesn't really need it though, would he?
as his not putting any major load on the electrical system, i think.
lol.

[wynode]

Probably won't help you now but just starting the car won't help. You need to drive it around for about 20 mins or so. If you can't do that atleast start it and let it idle for 20mins as a bare minimum.

Just starting it and stopping it after a couple of minutes won't do much because you've drawn a lot of current just to get it started.

My 2 cents! Maybe you should just disconnect the battery and keep it like that till you come back?

I had this same problem with the civic on a 3 year old battery when I went on holidays. Got it jump started and then ran around with it for a few more months before eventually changing it.

[yfin]

Thanks guys - it is the original battery - about 2.5 years old.

I would have preferred the car being driven around whilst my dad is away - but I honestly don't want my sister driving it. :D I fear something worse than a battery problem, hehe

I think she was starting it for 10 minutes, not sure - my dad was giving her instructions.

[EuroDude]

I dont think a more powerful battery would help the rough starts - isnt that caused by the emissions features of the engine?

I would get a new battery from a Honda dealer if its a reasonable price.

[destrukshn]

what do you mean by rough starts?
meanign cold starts?

[yfin]

what do you mean by rough starts?
meanign cold starts?

Nah, it doesn't have a consistency to it - hot or cold.

Sometimes the Euro just feels like it is hard to start - takes a few cranks to get started. Lots of people are reporting this so it is normal but I thought it was due to the small battery.

[EuroDude]

The K24A has a bit of difficulty starting the engine - they take around 6 or 7 cranks, instead of two or three like in a civic (or sometimes one for my EG lol).

The power of the cranks seem fine, its just the initial combustion that has difficulty.

I think its due to the exhaust being routed back into the cylinders (emission feature) thats causing the long startups. Just a guess...

[aaronng]

a odyssey battery would be a excellent option.
but he doesn't really need it though, would he?
as his not putting any major load on the electrical system, i think.
lol.
I was thinking of the odyssey for its deep discharge capabilities. If this situation ever happens again, all he has to do is recharge the battery or get a jumpstart and the battery will perform as before.

[aaronng]

Nah, it doesn't have a consistency to it - hot or cold.

Sometimes the Euro just feels like it is hard to start - takes a few cranks to get started. Lots of people are reporting this so it is normal but I thought it was due to the small battery.
I've read over at the TSX forums that Optima batteries solved this problem for this. But the Optima battery that fits the Euro (51R) has been recalled and discontinued because of quality issues.

If you starting difficulty is when the engine is warm, then look at my DIY grounding cable and ground the alternator. I know it shouldn't have an effect, but my warm starting problems are gone. Cold starts are still the same though.

[wynode]

One thing I loved about my EG.....started up first time every time. Even in the coldest weather!

[EuroDude]

One thing I loved about my EG.....started up first time every time. Even in the coldest weather!

Yep same hear, go da D16A8 :thumbsup:
As for the Dizzy problems though :thumbdwn:

[kleung]

yfin - highly recommend that you get your battery recharged now - don't leave it sitting there discharged for 5 weeks, or it will almost definitely need replacing when your dad gets back.

Most wet-cell lead acid batteries bounce back reasonably well if you recharge them immediately after they become discharged. Leave it too long and it will begin to sulfate, which will shorten the lifespan and capacity of the battery.

It might be worth investing in a battery tender if you've still got a few months before you get home. That will keep your battery topped up between starts.

Good luck!

[yfin]

yfin - highly recommend that you get your battery recharged now - don't leave it sitting there discharged for 5 weeks, or it will almost definitely need replacing when your dad gets back.

Most wet-cell lead acid batteries bounce back reasonably well if you recharge them immediately after they become discharged. Leave it too long and it will begin to sulfate, which will shorten the lifespan and capacity of the battery.

It might be worth investing in a battery tender if you've still got a few months before you get home. That will keep your battery topped up between starts.

Good luck!
What if I got my sister to purchase this (http://www.jaycar.com.au/productView.asp?ID=MB3600&CATID=18&keywords=&SPECIAL=&form=CAT&ProdCodeOnly=&Keyword1=&Keyword2=&pageNumber=&priceMin=&priceMax=&SUBCATID=295)and she hooked it up without charging the battery following a jump start and an ordinary charge via driving the vehicle.

In other words would simply hooking up the Jaycar device work now the battery is dead?

**update - what would the average life be on one of the OEM batteries? More than 4 years? Kelung, that battery has been sitting there dead for almost a week now so even if I pay $50 for this Jaycar device it may just be a waste of money if I need a new battery when my dad gets back in 5 weeks. Hmmm, not sure what to do. Go with the Jaycar or not to go with the Jaycar. I know when my dad is back the car will be driven so it is really what to do in the next 5 weeks.

*** more questions - does the factory warranty cover the battery? I see one guy in the USA got his covered under warranty after 27k miles.

[aaronng]

Get the device and charge that battery. The charging action is better than driving the car around to charge a discharged lead acid battery because the lead sulfate (which is brittle) will break off the plates and fall to the bottom where it can't be reclaimed back using normal methods.

BTW, starting your car weekly without driving around to warm up the engine oil to 100ºC is bad for the engine because it builds up moisture and combines with the sulfate formed during combustion (from impurities in the petrol) to form sulfuric acid. I'd rather let the car sit there for a month.

[wynode]

Just call up the NRMA and get them to start it. Then have your dad drive it around for a bit.

Once a week should be enough I reckon. Otherwise just wait till you comeback n get a new battery.

[EuroAccord13]

It's about time to change battery anyway since it's almost three years old.. I'm changing mine, was told Optima is good...

[euro77]

mine was optima, been going well now, was installed late 2003

[kleung]

Not sure. I've never tried letting a discharged battery sit for a week, and I'm not an expert. :) I think it's worth a try though - $50 is better than $100+ for a new battery.

That same charger seems to be $10 cheaper at Batteryworld (http://batteryworld.ipb.icemedia.com.au/data/portal/00005071/content/72311001149751370963.pdf) btw (bottom of Page 3)

From what I've read though, it might actually be healthier for your battery (and possibly your alternator) to recharge using the battery charger rather than getting a jumpstart. As I understand it, this is because the battery will be charged more gradually, and there will be less strain on the alternator because it won't have to try to pump so much charge back into the battery as quickly as possible.

The average life seems to vary a lot between cars. I don't think Euros have been around long enough to work out an average life span yet. I know that batteries lasted about 3.5-4 years in my old Berlina, but the last battery in my sister's 87 Mitsubishi Colt lasted close to 8 years before it died.

A healthy, charged battery should be quite happy to sit for five weeks - my car sat for five weeks with tbe battery disconnected while I was in the US last year. When I got home, I just hooked up the battery again, and it started like I'd only driven it the day before.

I just had a look in the warranty booklet:

"Batteries are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship and will be replaced on a pro-rata basis:
0-24 months 100% replacement cost coverage,
24-36 months 50% replacement cost coverage,
if purchased through an Authorised Honda Dealer."

But it also says that "deterioration due to use and exposure" are not covered, and "replacement of service items" is not covered.

[euro77]

I have the original one sitting in my garage doing nothing, probably already discharged, and another battery that fits the euro also doing nothing. you can try use 'em and keep 'em if they work.

[aaronng]

I kept my euro sitting with everything connected for 1 month. When I came back, it started up without problems. If you have an aftermarket alarm, it will draw your battery more quickly (alarm's independant battery is probably as a backup if the main line is snipped).

[yfin]

I kept my euro sitting with everything connected for 1 month. When I came back, it started up without problems. If you have an aftermarket alarm, it will draw your battery more quickly (alarm's independant battery is probably as a backup if the main line is snipped).
Well mine has been barely driven for 7 months! Those odd trips around town by my dad etc are all fine and good but it still not substitute for driving the car every few days.

Anyway, looks like I am getting a new battery. My dad doesn't want me to bother my sister to hook up anything to the car and secondly, he said the car needs a new battery as he noticed it was weak a long, long time ago. I am not in a position to argue with him about it and knowing how stubborn he is - it is not worth it. He will probably pay for the battery and not ask me to reimburse - so I should just :zip:

Aarong - as for letting the car warm up without driving it - you may well be right but I can tell you now that explaining such things to a retired mechanic who thinks he knows everything he needs to know about cars would be futile...:D And the car is now going to sit there for 5 weeks - with no power whatsoever...

Ok so this Optima battery - someone care to share a model number and approx cost? I'll see if I can find out about the battery destrukn recommended too.

[aaronng]

Aarong - as for letting the car warm up without driving it - you may well be right but I can tell you now that explaining such things to a retired mechanic who thinks he knows everything he needs to know about cars would be futile...:D And the car is now going to sit there for 5 weeks - with no power whatsoever...

I know the feeling, my dad took a diploma to be a mechanic. So I never get the end of how soft I am and that I need to train to be tougher for car servicing jobs. He was wanting to change the fuel filter of his CD Accord a few months ago and kept telling me that it was a difficult job and such. I told him I could do it as I work a lot in confined spaces at our high pressure lab where our spanners only have a 5cm space to turn. When he couldn't undo the bottom fuel line bolt on the 2nd day, I asked him to let me do it instead (for the 10th time) and he finally gave in.

LOL, using a spanner, I twisted the middle part of the hex nut from using so much force (special high pressure nut tightening technique. Don't anyone threaten me with their nuts :p ) but the bolt came loose as well.

And then just last week he told me he changed 2 of his engine mounts on his car..... alone. I can't beat that.

[KUCING]

I used Optima in my car since I got the car as well and till now no complains what so ever...

It's the YellowTop Optima Battery Model YEL51R, CCA: 500, Group Size: 51R.

I think it was cost around 400 aud...if wrong pardon me i kinda forgot long time already...

Here's some description of it:
* Dual Purpose starting and deep cycling.
* Lasts up to 2 times longer than other batteries.
* Constant performance quality keeping your battery running at the same level even as it's being discharged.
* More power in the initial 1, 3, 5, and 10 seconds of the starting process than comparably rated conventional lead acid batteries.
* Ideal for seasonal use, fully charged, it can sit unused for up to 12 months at room temperature (or below) and still start a car.
* 15 times more resistant to vibration than other batteries.
* Nonspillable and can mount in almost any position.

http://www.optimabatteries.com/publish/optima/americas0/en/config/product_info/automotive/deep_cycle.RowPar.0002.ContentPar.0003.ColumnPar.0 002.Image.0.0.gif

Remember If you don't use your car for quite a long time (1 month or more) it's better to disconnect one of the battery cable from the battery

[yfin]

Thanks Kucing. I dont think I need something that high end - all my electrics and audio are stock save for an Apexi RSM. $400 is probably overkill? Are all the Optima batteries in that price range? I'll find out about this battery Destrukn recommended.

[Ronin]

i was informed that Optima, although a good battery is not as sturdy as the one i got recommended. The guy who specialises in batteries say that of all the Optima's he's sold half of them come back because the cells (cirular ones) break or something, and warranty and claims with the company is a nightmare.

He recommended one that was similar to the Optima, but was a lot more sturdier and had no problems.

So far, so good! and its been 1yr. Sorry i don't know the brand of the top of my head, but you could always ring them. www.batteryworld.com.au

[aaronng]

i was informed that Optima, although a good battery is not as sturdy as the one i got recommended. The guy who specialises in batteries say that of all the Optima's he's sold half of them come back because the cells (cirular ones) break or something, and warranty and claims with the company is a nightmare.

That's the problem with the 51R, which is the model that fits Hondas. 51R has been discontinued because of these problems and there is no replacement for that size, not even in redtop.

[aaronng]

Time to bump up the thread before I go to bed. I know the group 35 battery can fit the Euro if you take the plastic tray off. But what about a group 34 battery? Group 34 should be the standard larger size that is used on european cars.

[yfin]

What do you think about this battery as a replacement (suggested by Destruktn). I have told my dad to get this if my battery can't be revived (highly unliklely now):

http://www.supercharge.com.au/products_specs_gold.htm

Battery for the Euro is MF75D23L and cca is 610

I did a search on google re this battery and someone said that the quoted CCA for these batteries is a minimum rather than a maximum. Sounds good to me.

http://forum.streetcommodores.com.au/showthread.php?p=645155

What is the CCA of the OEM battery? Under 400?

[aaronng]

What do you think about this battery as a replacement (suggested by Destruktn). I have told my dad to get this if my battery can't be revived (highly unliklely now):

http://www.supercharge.com.au/products_specs_gold.htm

Battery for the Euro is MF75D23L and cca is 610

I did a search on google re this battery and someone said that the quoted CCA for these batteries is a minimum rather than a maximum. Sounds good to me.

http://forum.streetcommodores.com.au/showthread.php?p=645155

What is the CCA of the OEM battery? Under 400?
Not sure what the CCA of the OEM one is, but the optima yellow top in 51R size that is the same as the stock battery has 500 CCA. BTW, the MF75D23L is wider than the 51R by 4.3 cm. I'm going to measure the stock battery size tomorrow.

[yfin]

Not sure what the CCA of the OEM one is, but the optima yellow top in 51R size that is the same as the stock battery has 500 CCA. BTW, the MF75D23L is wider than the 51R by 4.3 cm. I'm going to measure the stock battery size tomorrow.

Great, thanks. Hopefully there are no fitment issues - it is in their catalogue as for the Euro so fingers crossed.

[aaronng]

Got some measurements.
Stock battery:
L: 238 mm
W: 127 mm
H: ??? (can't accurately measure because of the battery tray. I measured 190mm, but group 51 is meant to be 227mm tall)

These are off maybe by 2-5mm because I didn't remove the plastic shroud that covers the battery.

I tried measuring the largest battery I can get in, but it's not that accurate. I got:
L: 280 mm
W: 154 mm (with stock snorkel in front of battery. Larger without)

So if I take off my stock snorkel, I'll be able to fit in a D34 bluetop battery!!

[destrukshn]

btw people, Honda now provide a 30month warranty on thier batteries!!
and being acdelco, it is a very good high quality battery.

but super charge gold do have the upper hand with a 36month warranty.
lol.

[euro77]

Got some measurements.
Stock battery:
L: 238 mm
W: 127 mm
H: ??? (can't accurately measure because of the battery tray. I measured 190mm, but group 51 is meant to be 227mm tall)

These are off maybe by 2-5mm because I didn't remove the plastic shroud that covers the battery.

I tried measuring the largest battery I can get in, but it's not that accurate. I got:
L: 280 mm
W: 154 mm (with stock snorkel in front of battery. Larger without)

So if I take off my stock snorkel, I'll be able to fit in a D34 bluetop battery!!

I'll measure mine tonight (after work, as I've got it laying around doing nothing in my garage).

[Pumped]

So if I take off my stock snorkel, I'll be able to fit in a D34 bluetop battery!!

Ive got an Optima D34 Yellow Top from my old car not being used, havent actually tried fitting it, so you think they'll fit?? :eek: :D

[aaronng]

Ive got an Optima D34 Yellow Top from my old car not being used, havent actually tried fitting it, so you think they'll fit?? :eek: :D
Try it out! Take out the stock battery and the plastic tray (plastic tray also supports the positive terminal cable, but I don't think you'll need the support. Put in a flat piece of plastic to spread the weight and then put the D34 in. Take pics too!

Best would be to have the 34R though (but that's the redtop, not in yellow).

[aaronng]

Ahh, now I realise why my height measurements are off. The specs include the terminal posts as well!

[Spec83]

I have always used Exide batteries and never had a bad experience - have used Exide Orbital deep cycle batteries in my SPL/SQ excel with great success and they hold voltage really well but unless your giving your electrical system a real thrashing then $300 is better spent elsewhere....

Exide Evolution is their top line common retail battery and has nice capacity and freatures and the Premium line is designed to OEM standards and isn't too bad either if u just want to chuck another in - Looking at $125 & $89 repectivly at KMart... My parent's cars run one of the above batteries each and havn't had a problem...

You are better off getting the Exide Evolution IMHO for the extra $30!! Just make sure the posts are around the right way :)

[aaronng]

Optimas are more expensive because they use gel acid instead of liquid acid.

Comparing the YT D51R to the equivalent Exide evolution E370C, the optima has more cranking amps and higher reserve capacity while having the same weight.

Optima Yellowtop D51R
CCA (cold cranking amps): 625 at 0ºC, 500 at -17.7ºC
RC (reserve capacity): 70 minutes
Length: 236.5
Width: 128.6
Height: 227
Nom. Wgt: 11.8 kg

Exide Evolution E370C
CCA (cold cranking amps): 370 at 0ºC
RC (reserve capacity): 60 minutes
Length: 235
Width: 128
Height: 220
Nom. Wgt: 12

[euro77]

L x W x H = 235 x 125 x 200 mm
add 25 mm for the terminals (height)

might be off 1-3 mm

[yfin]

What the? The Supercharge Gold says it is 230x172x228.

How on earth am I going to get that width to fit? I have the icebox lid too which might reduce some of the room as well.

[destrukshn]

What the? The Supercharge Gold says it is 230x172x228.

How on earth am I going to get that width to fit? I have the icebox lid too which might reduce some of the room as well.
what about geunine honda/acdelco?

[yfin]

what about geunine honda/acdelco?

Hmm, that is still an option - I just thought I would get the Gold and the catalogue says that is the correct sized replacement battery for the Euro. :confused:

[destrukshn]

well the gold and acdelco batteries are the same cca or very close to i'm quite sure.
the only difference then is gold is 36months warranty and acdelco/honda is 30 months, BUT, even being 6 months different, most batteries out there only carry a 12 month warranty.
you have to buy it from a honda dealer to get the 30 month warranty though, if you buy else where it's 1 year.

[yfin]

any chance Destruckshn you have a link or a catalogue at work to the Adelco battery for the Euro? I want to see if the size is bigger than the OEM.

[euro77]

the supercharge gold might still fit though, I think the battery base is bigger than the battery itself (but don't quote me on that)

[destrukshn]

lol, i can give you the model number if you wish.
but to tell you the truth.. i think.. it uses the same size battery of the civics

[aaronng]

I compiled a list of brands, models, and spec. All of them replace our 238x128x220 stock battery.


Brand Model CCA(amps) RC(minutes) WT(kg)
Exide Evolution E370C 370 60 12
Century Performance NS60LS 400 65 11.93
ACDelco Sealed S55B24LS 430 80
Supercharge Gold MF55B24LS 450 80
Optima Yellowtop D51R 500 70 11.8

[destrukshn]

BUT, i shall double check tomorrow

[destrukshn]

same size as civics and integras and stuff, not a big battery, same size but the posts are different, thier opposite.

[yfin]

Aaron nice table! A couple of changes though - the Euro Supercharge Gold is MF75D23L and the Supercharge Classic is N55D23L - outputs are different to the table for those models.

[destrukshn]

the MF one is quite big, i don't think that's the euro one?
unless the 06 ones are different, but i'm quite sure it's still the s55b24ls

[yfin]

the MF one is quite big, i don't think that's the euro one?
unless the 06 ones are different, but i'm quite sure it's still the s55b24ls
Maybe the Supercharge catalogue is wrong but it clearly says Accord Euro and the "Classic" and "Gold" are 170/172mm wide respectively.

http://www.supercharge.com.au/resources/findbat/Passenger_and_Recreational_Vehicle.pdf

Edit: I am feeling a bit more optimistic as that same MF battery is stated for use in some of the Preludes, NSX and some similar sized vehicles like the Mazda 6. Different engine bay of course but it is not as if it is for a huge lux car. So maybe it does fit..

[destrukshn]

to be definate.. i will check for you tomorrow!
lol.
how does that sound?

[yfin]

to be definate.. i will check for you tomorrow!
lol.
how does that sound?

Cool :thumbsup: That would be fantastic as I can guarantee you if I tell my old man to get that particular model and it doesn't fit - he will make me feel guilty for all the inconvenience. hehe

[destrukshn]

hahahaha.
lol, you'll be right, but i'm about 95% sure it;s the s55b24ls

[aaronng]

Aaron nice table! A couple of changes though - the Euro Supercharge Gold is MF75D23L and the Supercharge Classic is N55D23L - outputs are different to the table for those models.
It lists the Euro as having the same size as the EXi and VTi CD4/5 Accords. And I know for sure that the CD Accords use an N70 battery, which is twice the volume of the Euro's battery. So the "Euro" entry in the Supercharge catalog is wrong.

I based the right size off the Odyssey and S2000, which run the same size battery since the Optima's D51R is an exact fit (and correct terminal orientation) in the latest Odyssey, S2000 and Euro.

[Adagio]

If you buy another battery you may want to keep it fully charged, considering what has happened to the original. For Fathers day what about buying your dad a terrific little charger that you leave on all the time when it is not being used. It senses when the battery needs a top up charge and goes ahead automatically and charges the battery very slowly. I used it on the Euro when I was away for 5 weeks. Now it does duty charging my Ride On Mower and the back up battery for my tyre pump. It is called a Battery Fighter Junior Model BFJ-012-230 Fully Automatic charging system. It costs about $47.00 from JaCar or possibly Dick Smith's.
Adagio

[destrukshn]

okay, it is definately S55B24LS, rrp is $99
which isn't too bad i'd say.
=)

[Adagio]

okay, it is definately S55B24LS, rrp is $99
which isn't too bad i'd say.
=)
NO it is Battery Fighter Junior Model BFJ-012-230 which I am sure I bought for $47.00
Adagio

[aaronng]

NO it is Battery Fighter Junior Model BFJ-012-230 which I am sure I bought for $47.00
Adagio
He meant the Supercharge Gold.

[aaronng]

okay, it is definately S55B24LS, rrp is $99
which isn't too bad i'd say.
=)
Do you know of any dealers selling supercharge? Website says to call 1300-battery to get a list of dealers. Isn't 1300 a pay per minute number? Or was is 1900?

[kleung]

Aaronng: 1300 is usually 25c fixed nationally (depending on the fixed phone plan you're on). 190x is the pay per minute number range.

Adagio - the Battery Fighter Junior is cheaper from Batteryworld. Or at least it was, they don't have a comprehensive online catalogue.
http://www.ozhonda.com/forum/showpost.php?p=799266&postcount=22

Ken

[aaronng]

Aaronng: 1300 is usually 25c fixed nationally (depending on the fixed phone plan you're on). 190x is the pay per minute number range.

Adagio - the Battery Fighter Junior is cheaper from Batteryworld. Or at least it was, they don't have a comprehensive online catalogue.
http://www.ozhonda.com/forum/showpost.php?p=799266&postcount=22

Ken
Thanks! I'll give them a call.

[yfin]

okay, it is definately S55B24LS, rrp is $99
which isn't too bad i'd say.
=)
DEstruckshn cnn you confirm the battery for the Euro in the supercharge gold range? The number for the Adelco is confirmed.

[yfin]

If you buy another battery you may want to keep it fully charged, considering what has happened to the original. For Fathers day what about buying your dad a terrific little charger that you leave on all the time when it is not being used. It senses when the battery needs a top up charge and goes ahead automatically and charges the battery very slowly. I used it on the Euro when I was away for 5 weeks. Now it does duty charging my Ride On Mower and the back up battery for my tyre pump. It is called a Battery Fighter Junior Model BFJ-012-230 Fully Automatic charging system. It costs about $47.00 from JaCar or possibly Dick Smith's.
Adagio

Err - I don't think you read the whole thread.

[primetimex]

Sometimes the Euro just feels like it is hard to start - takes a few cranks to get started. Lots of people are reporting this so it is normal but I thought it was due to the small battery.

This is the same for me when I had the 03 Euro Lux - sometimes it wouldn't start even after six or seven cranks and I thought the battery was dead!! and at that time the Euro was only about a year old!

[aaronng]

DEstruckshn cnn you confirm the battery for the Euro in the supercharge gold range? The number for the Adelco is confirmed.
Yfin, I have the ACDelco catalog, and in it there is a list of competing battery brands and their equivalent part number. ACDelco S55B24LS = Supercharge MF55B24LS. I have the Supercharge catalog as well. In it, it lists the Supercharge Gold for the S2000 and Odyssey, also MF55B24LS. There is no regular Supercharge battery in that same size. If you want Supercharge, your only choice is the Gold.

[yfin]

Thanks Aaron - in terms of calling Supercharge - are you planning to get a new battery? If you do please let me know the rough price of the Gold - it is hard for me to call them from Hungary.

By the way - did we ever find out the CCA of the OEM battery fitted to the vechicle from the factory?

[destrukshn]

MF55B24LS
that's the supercharge gold one, very simliar to the acdelco.

[destrukshn]

Thanks Aaron - in terms of calling Supercharge - are you planning to get a new battery? If you do please let me know the rough price of the Gold - it is hard for me to call them from Hungary.

By the way - did we ever find out the CCA of the OEM battery fitted to the vechicle from the factory?
crap, usually around 300cca i'm pretty sure.
lol

[aaronng]

Thanks Aaron - in terms of calling Supercharge - are you planning to get a new battery? If you do please let me know the rough price of the Gold - it is hard for me to call them from Hungary.

By the way - did we ever find out the CCA of the OEM battery fitted to the vechicle from the factory?
Yup, destrukshn is right. It's 300CCA and it's a Yuasa battery. Guess what other cars use the same size battery as the Euro? The Mazda 121 and the Daihatsu Terios.

I'll let you know the price. No problems!

[yfin]

Yup, destrukshn is right. It's 300CCA and it's a Yuasa battery. Guess what other cars use the same size battery as the Euro? The Mazda 121 and the Daihatsu Terios.

I'll let you know the price. No problems!

Cheers thanks. That is incredible re the battery size. No wonder it is weak to start the car sometimes. I am glad I am replacing it.

[Chris_F]

^ sounds like it could be the reason why the car starts hard sometimes like you said. Interesting to hear if a new battery changes that.

[yfin]

Well just an update on this thread - my old man returned a few days ago to the battery sitting there dead for 5 weeks.

Took it to the workshop and put it on charge for 2 days - and battery appears to test ok and hold a charge.

Lets see how it goes over the next few weeks.

[aaronng]

I'm picking up an ACDelco battery next week. Will let you know if it solves the cold start and light dimming problem.

[yfin]

I'm picking up an ACDelco battery next week. Will let you know if it solves the cold start and light dimming problem.
Aaron - sonds good.

Do you know if the OEM battery is maintenance free? My old man asked me who does my servicing as the fluid in the battery was very low. I thought it was a sealed battery.

[aaronng]

Aaron - sonds good.

Do you know if the OEM battery is maintenance free? My old man asked me who does my servicing as the fluid in the battery was very low. I thought it was a sealed battery.
Mine is maintanence free. The top of the battery is flat, but you can still unscrew the individual cells to top up with deionised water. Brand is Yuasa. Here's a piccy:
http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7990/catakewr0.jpg

[yfin]

Mine is maintanence free. The top of the battery is flat, but you can still unscrew the individual cells to top up with deionised water. Brand is Yuasa. Here's a piccy:


Ahh thanks. Didn't know we could top them up.

Is that something people have been doing? I wouldn't expect Honda service to do that.

[aaronng]

Ahh thanks. Didn't know we could top them up.

Is that something people have been doing? I wouldn't expect Honda service to do that.
I don't think they would check it even. It's meant to be maintenance free. But if it discharges, it would consume the water to form lead sulphate.

[Adagio]

Ahh thanks. Didn't know we could top them up.

Is that something people have been doing? I wouldn't expect Honda service to do that.

If you do it yourself only fill to 5 mm above the cell plate. This can be checked by using a thin stick wood or plastic (not a pencil) down the cell. DONT over fill.
Aaronng there is still time before father's day for you to buy your dad that trickle battery charger;) .
Adagio

[aaronng]

If you do it yourself only fill to 5 mm above the cell plate. This can be checked by using a thin stick wood or plastic (not a pencil) down the cell. DONT over fill.
Aaronng there is still time before father's day for you to buy your dad that trickle battery charger;) .
Adagio
My dad? You mean yfin's dad? Hehe...

My dad has his huge ass current selectable charger. It's the size of an old 14" monitor!

[Adagio]

Apologies Aaronng I was working from memory. Yfin take note.
Adagio

[destrukshn]

arronng, people may be waiting on the reply of your new battery.
lol.
=)

[aaronng]

LOL! I replied in the wrong thread. I did it in the grounding kit thread.

[aaronng]

Update: I just replaced the stock 300CCA battery with an ACDelco 430CCA battery. Changing to a higher rated battery of the same size does not solve the dimming lights issue. However, I noticed that the dimming is not as bad now but it is still there. Guess it's the alternator.

But.... starting the car is a bit easier! It takes about 2 turns of the starter motor to get it started, and so far, there has not been any struggling once started.

[tanalasta]

Another quick question indirectly related to replacement batteries:
Does the headunit/radio/CD audio system require a code or PIN when the power is disconnected like most radio security systems?

[destrukshn]

yes, i'm quite sure it does need a code.
if you ever need that code, just call up your honda dealer, and they should be able to tell you, btw, you should of just started a new thread, so people in future and seearch it and find it.
=)

[curik]

when i installed the volt stabilizer(had to disconnect the battery), I didnt enter any code and the radio just worked instantly. Maybe there is something wrong with my headunit?

[destrukshn]

maybe euro's are different? or maybe you can enable em or disable them.

[aaronng]

Another quick question indirectly related to replacement batteries:
Does the headunit/radio/CD audio system require a code or PIN when the power is disconnected like most radio security systems?
The Euro 03-05 models don't for some reason. Even the TSX non-navi audio system require a code.

[tanalasta]

I emailed the dealer ...
'The stereo system isn’t designed to be removed easily and are fully integrated into the dashboard, eliminating the need for a security code'.

[aaronng]

I emailed the dealer ...
'The stereo system isn’t designed to be removed easily and are fully integrated into the dashboard, eliminating the need for a security code'.
Funny thing is that the same applies to the TSX unit. But I guess over there, they steal everything.

[cdjhitman]

nah i didnt require i code for mine when i changed my stock battery to a yellow top optima D34 battery. it just fits in there but i duno what im going to do when i update my air intake as theres not much room. it took a while to get my drycell battery to get going as it was out of action for about a yr. it was in my 2002 corolla, which had a customed system until it got written off lol. now shes just like brand new. ill post up pics when i get the chance and you guys can let me know what you think.

[Crapdaz]

super charge gold MF55B24LS for $146????

that sounds expensive right?

where can pick up AC Delco or Supercharge Gold for cheaper and price you got it for and which shop?

Thanks in advance. daz

[aaronng]

Call 1300 228837 and ask for your nearest dealer. That $147 price is a rip. We paid $90-95 RETAIL from a small auto parts when in Melb for a MF55B24LS.

[Crapdaz]

i did call them up,

the guy goes auto one then i ask for address to closest one and he goes this is only a warehouse and dont have address on me.

bad customer service or something..

[aaronng]

i did call them up,

the guy goes auto one then i ask for address to closest one and he goes this is only a warehouse and dont have address on me.

bad customer service or something..

Look for a place other than Autoone. Tried Bursons?

[mrshibby]

I bought the Supercharge Gold battery last week from a dealer in Moorabbin, $110 with 3 year warranty, not bad!

[JN7]

For the Supercharge Golld (MF55B24LS), is it simple to replace the old one? My one is on the way out.. most likely due to me having an upgraded sound system.
Thanks in advance.

[aaronng]

For the Supercharge Golld (MF55B24LS), is it simple to replace the old one? My one is on the way out.. most likely due to me having an upgraded sound system.
Thanks in advance.
Simple. Or pay a mech to change it for you for $50.:)

[Crapdaz]

simple,
2 10mm bolts - positive and negative terminal.
2 10mm bolts - battery hold
(correct me if i am wrong i am very bad at visualizing)

when connecting battery back, positive before negative.

[aaronng]

simple,
2 10mm bolts - positive and negative terminal.
2 10mm bolts - battery hold
(correct me if i am wrong i am very bad at visualizing)

when connecting battery back, positive before negative.

Sounds good to me. :thumbsup:

Record your radio codes and radio stations and remove the negative terminal first.

[tony1234]

For the Supercharge Golld (MF55B24LS), is it simple to replace the old one? My one is on the way out.. most likely due to me having an upgraded sound system.
Thanks in advance.
I' ve got the same problem.Got sound system upgrade.Car is just 2 yrs.old.Battery is crap.:thumbdwn:

[aaronng]

For those who complained about the k24a3 engine being lazy to start... I have found the solution. A lightweight flywheel. LOL. Just noticed it today. The starter motor spins very easily and the engine starts without fuss.

[Crapdaz]

For those who complained about the k24a3 engine being lazy to start... I have found the solution. A lightweight flywheel. LOL. Just noticed it today. The starter motor spins very easily and the engine starts without fuss.

Is that when you start the car and it cranks alot (about 4-7 cranks) before it eventually starts?

[aaronng]

Is that when you start the car and it cranks alot (about 4-7 cranks) before it eventually starts?

Yeah, and the cranking sound is really slow. LOL. Mine is heaps fast now. hahaha

[Crapdaz]

Yeah, and the cranking sound is really slow. LOL. Mine is heaps fast now. hahaha

so you say the exedy stage 1 clutch + flywheel would be the better combo for this?

[JN7]

I' ve got the same problem.Got sound system upgrade.Car is just 2 yrs.old.Battery is crap.:thumbdwn:

Yeah, same situation man. Gonna go get a replacement one very soon. What you done with yours? Have you replaced it yet or still using the factory one

[aaronng]

so you say the exedy stage 1 clutch + flywheel would be the better combo for this?

Yes, get the stage 1. The OEM k20a one that I have has a smaller clutch disc and the pressure plate seems softer than OEM k24a.

[tony1234]

Yeah, same situation man. Gonna go get a replacement one very soon. What you done with yours? Have you replaced it yet or still using the factory one
Still on the original one.Honda service did their test on mine yesterday and said it is just above "fail".HA won't replace it till their test comes up fail.Now my car is over 2 yrs.old i'll have to pay 50% of the cost of replacement battery.HA gives only 2 yrs. warranty on the OEM battery then 2-3 yrs.50%:thumbdwn:

[Crapdaz]

Still on the original one.Honda service did their test on mine yesterday and said it is just above "fail".HA won't replace it till their test comes up fail.Now my car is over 2 yrs.old i'll have to pay 50% of the cost of replacement battery.HA gives only 2 yrs. warranty on the OEM battery then 2-3 yrs.50%:thumbdwn:

dang man you want my old battery?
its 5years old and no problems.

don't know how long it'd last with your killer sound system. kekeke

[tony1234]

dang man you want my old battery?
its 5years old and no problems.

don't know how long it'd last with your killer sound system. kekeke
Same thing happened with my last car,it had sound upgrade as well.Battery lasted approx.2.5 yrs.I'll just get one with higher CCA and i'll be right again.Anyone here recommend a good brand and/or place to buy a new battery from?BTW i'm in Sydney.Pricing as well please.

[Type R Positive]

If I was going to upgrade, Id go for something like an odyssey or optima yellow top battery.

[tony1234]

If I was going to upgrade, Id go for something like an odyssey or optima yellow top battery.
I agree,i just don't want to spend $300+for a battery for a car that i'll only be keeping for another 2 yrs.

[Type R Positive]

yeah, should be able to pick em up for $250, maybe less if you look around.

[Type R Positive]

I think its the optima D51 yellow top / Odyssey 800that is the replacement one for the euro.

[Type R Positive]

Those supercharge gold MF55's are only about $100!

[tony1234]

Those supercharge gold MF55's are only about $100!
Thanks for your help Matty.The supercharge Gold is looking the go ATM.:thumbsup:

[Crapdaz]

Thanks for your help Matty.The supercharge Gold is looking the go ATM.:thumbsup:

tell me if you get sh*t service when you call them up, that's what made me change my mind.

[aaronng]

tell me if you get sh*t service when you call them up, that's what made me change my mind.
Before you buy, ask the shop if warranty is handled direct with supercharge or through the shop. The shop that sold the Supercharge Gold in Melb handled warranty in the shop itself. So it was all good. With most manufacturers, if you have a return-to-base warranty, it is troublesome.

[Crapdaz]

Before you buy, ask the shop if warranty is handled direct with supercharge or through the shop. The shop that sold the Supercharge Gold in Melb handled warranty in the shop itself. So it was all good. With most manufacturers, if you have a return-to-base warranty, it is troublesome.

yeh aaron, all companies that deal with that return to base is annoying and :thumbdwn:

[tony1234]

OK.Got a new battery.Delcor(made in Korea)3yr.warranty.11 plate(OEM one is 9 plate)430 CCA(OEM is 330 CCA).$108.00 installed!Big difference when starting in the morning,it turns over quicker and starts easier now.:thumbsup:

[EuroDude]

Are Alco batteries any good?

The dude reckons they are good quality 400cca Calcium batteries that rarely fail. They have 3years warranty and most of the returned ones that failed just need a good recharge, then they are good as gold.

Linky http://www.alcobatterysales.com.au/alco.pdf

[aaronng]

Are Alco batteries any good?

The dude reckons they are good quality 400cca Calcium batteries that rarely fail. They have 3years warranty and most of the returned ones that failed just need a good recharge, then they are good as gold.

Linky http://www.alcobatterysales.com.au/alco.pdf

If they are fully drained, they will never be like new again. Same thing as with all the calcium batteries like AC Delco and Supercharge gold. If the price is below $100, then they are ok. Otherwise, I'd rather AC Delco (430CCA) or Supercharge Gold (450CCA)

[EuroDude]

If they are fully drained, they will never be like new again. Same thing as with all the calcium batteries like AC Delco and Supercharge gold. If the price is below $100, then they are ok. Otherwise, I'd rather AC Delco (430CCA) or Supercharge Gold (450CCA)

True, which is hard having a decent sound system lol. Anyway, it has a 3-year warranty so its all good. The price was a bit more than $100 but with the 3-year wty and extra CCA, its worth it over the stock panasonic batt..

[aaronng]

3-year warranty is pro-rated. Don't rely on it 100% to justify your purchase. :)

[racerwannabe]

I was quoted $155 for the Supercharge Gold. It seems a bit high compared to the price people have posted. If you know of a place in Sydney that sells these batteries cheaper can you please posted their details here. Cheers.

[traumatized]

i think the supercharge gold prices have gone up, if you are in the south west give meakong auto spares a call they sell it there.

[Crapdaz]

i think the supercharge gold prices have gone up, if you are in the south west give meakong auto spares a call they sell it there.
i think mekong was cheaper but when i asked autoone they quoted around $140ish.

couple of years ago aaronng and euroaccord13 got them for $110 or so but yeh... call around.

Otherwise when you see a supercharge van around, carjack it.... :p and hope they have one of the batts your looking for. J/K

Note: Only reason why i didn't get supercharge gold was that when i called to ask for distributors around they weren't helpful and weren't friendly. Only told me Autoone, asked for other distributors, they said "i dont know".

[racerwannabe]

Thanks Traumatized and Daz.

I was looking at the AC Delco as an alternative. The first local dealer i rang gave me a quote of $170! I will try other places as well but it seems like there's a huge jump in prices of batteries recently.

If you know a place that sells good batteries at a reasonable price can you please share it with the rest of us.

[aaronng]

Thanks Traumatized and Daz.

I was looking at the AC Delco as an alternative. The first local dealer i rang gave me a quote of $170! I will try other places as well but it seems like there's a huge jump in prices of batteries recently.

If you know a place that sells good batteries at a reasonable price can you please share it with the rest of us.

If you are in Sydney, try giving Rick Damelien a call. Their replacement batteries are AC Delco.

[aaronng]

Note: Only reason why i didn't get supercharge gold was that when i called to ask for distributors around they weren't helpful and weren't friendly. Only told me Autoone, asked for other distributors, they said "i dont know".
Supercharge is just around the corner from where I work. LOL. Not sure if they sell direct though.

[Crapdaz]

Supercharge is just around the corner from where I work. LOL. Not sure if they sell direct though.
ALL I CAN SAY DAMN YOU AARON!!!
:p

[aaronng]

ALL I CAN SAY DAMN YOU AARON!!!
:p
I just found this out last week. haha, at least now I know where to send ppl to get Supercharge batteries. I still rather send ppl to the small self-owned shops. Reasonable prices and keeps the shop alive.

[Crapdaz]

Agree with your 2nd suggestion, self owned and cheaper prices.

[tony1234]

I just found this out last week. haha, at least now I know where to send ppl to get Supercharge batteries. I still rather send ppl to the small self-owned shops. Reasonable prices and keeps the shop alive.
Haha,start your own wholesale car battery business.

[racerwannabe]

Thanks Aaron.

I rang Supercharge head office and the guy (Tony) told me that the RRP of the Gold is $148.50. They also sell direct to the public through their head office at Blacktown (new location). So, expect to pay ~$150 for the supercharge gold from now on.

[tron07]

I want to change batts for my gf's Ka.... whats the the address, so I can drop by to take a look?

[racerwannabe]

I want to change batts for my gf's Ka.... whats the the address, so I can drop by to take a look?

not sure but just give them a call on 1300 228837. the guy on the phone was pretty helpful.

[racerwannabe]

Ok guys the $150 i've been quoted for the Supercharge Gold is for MF75D23L which is larger than the stock battery and as i understand from previous posts is not right model for the euro.

So, you need give the shop the specific model no. which is MF55B24LS which i suspect will be cheaper compared to the MF75D23L and explains the $100 price people here have paid a couple of years ago.

[shakkas]

Ok guys the $150 i've been quoted for the Supercharge Gold is for MF75D23L which is larger than the stock battery and as i understand from previous posts is not right model for the euro.

So, you need give the shop the specific model no. which is MF55B24LS which i suspect will be cheaper compared to the MF75D23L and explains the $100 price people here have paid a couple of years ago.

what is the price of the battery? lookin at gettin a new one when i install my sound system in?

cheers!

[TRaNz]

whats the highest range of the Optima series? one for the CL9 of course. Im after another battery atm.
Are they still having the same problems with the quality issue or has it been fixed?......Aaron?.....LOL..

[aaronng]

whats the highest range of the Optima series? one for the CL9 of course. Im after another battery atm.
Are they still having the same problems with the quality issue or has it been fixed?......Aaron?.....LOL..

Supposedly fixed, but only 450CCA now, which is the same as Supercharge Gold. LOL

[TRaNz]

awwwww, that crap then....LOL.
Is there a battery for the Euro thats like more than 500CCA? or am i just thinkin 4DLULZ.

[aaronng]

awwwww, that crap then....LOL.
Is there a battery for the Euro thats like more than 500CCA? or am i just thinkin 4DLULZ.
If you have a cold air intake like Injen, K&N or Fujita, you should be able to fit the Optima red top 35 by taking off the plastic tray at the bottom of the current battery holder.

[racerwannabe]

what is the price of the battery? lookin at gettin a new one when i install my sound system in?

cheers!

I just bought the MF55B24LS for $115 from Kar Pro in Roselands.

[shakkas]

thats good!

notice any difference?

[D R U]

Ive had the D51R optima yellow top for a while now, and so has my cousin, neither of us have had any problems, so i guess the issues were fixed, ill post in this thread if any problems come up.

BTW top battery :thumbsup:


whats the highest range of the Optima series? one for the CL9 of course. Im after another battery atm.
Are they still having the same problems with the quality issue or has it been fixed?......Aaron?.....LOL..

[tony1234]

awwwww, that crap then....LOL.
Is there a battery for the Euro thats like more than 500CCA? or am i just thinkin 4DLULZ.
I got a Delcor battery back in July,it's 9 plate(stock is 7)430CCA,$108.it works well.Remember stock one is only 330CCA so mine is a 30% gain in CCA over stock battery.

[ope126]

As above...

I just replaced my battery today for an AC Delco 430CCA Sealed Battery. Part Number: S55B24LS cost $110.00.
Then went down to my friendly Honda dealership and they did the "idle relarn" for me. Took about 20mins to do including changing the battery.

Car now idles better, starts easier and feels zippier to boot!

[Type R Positive]

I got a Delcor battery back in July,it's 9 plate(stock is 7)430CCA,$108.it works well.Remember stock one is only 330CCA so mine is a 30% gain in CCA over stock battery.
Yeah, that's a bargain! :)

[power_of_dreams]

I had a flat this morning. I got RACV to replace it with one of their batteries (I'm a roadside assist member and needed the car badly with no other car to go and buy one).

It's got a 3 year warranty, anybody had any experience with these?

[tron07]

where you guys find these batteries (so cheap) from?

I just help my gf replace her car battery, supergold maintenance free and it cost like $200

[racerwannabe]

where you guys find these batteries (so cheap) from?

I just help my gf replace her car battery, supergold maintenance free and it cost like $200

I got mine from Karpro in Roselands for $115. Read through this thread as I remember I have posted this info previously. $200 is way too much.

[Crapdaz]

Agreed, i only just picked one up from my mate's workshop when i had the pulleys changed.

only cost me $90 for Solite 430CCA.

[aaronng]

where you guys find these batteries (so cheap) from?

I just help my gf replace her car battery, supergold maintenance free and it cost like $200

Autobarn Auburn sells Supercharge Gold for under $150.

[TRaNz]

mm, yeah i got another SuperChargeGold MF75D23L @ Autobarn for $159.
Slightly bigger than stock as its for the 03 model only, but it will fit other Euro models, so you need to lose the bottom battery tray, but its 610CCA. :)

[Crapdaz]

guessing your running heavy audio equipment???

[TRaNz]

i wouldnt classify it as heavy audio....id say just a few minor upgrades. :p

[tron07]

My mech also have solite ones, which is cheap but the size is different and not the one I wanted. Went to repco, autobahn, supercheap around my place and most of them only carry those non-maintenance free type.

[NightKids]

So where do I get these batteries from Melbourne? Looking to spend around $100.... been searching & hard to find retailers

[TRaNz]

Autobarn is where i got my SuperchargeGold from. Think the normal 450CCA is $115 and the 610CCA is $159.

[BE.10.WU]

After reading though this thread i thought i would share some previous research i have done with supercharge batteries (i know people who sell them which is how i gathered the info).

you can either use the MF75D23L OR the MF55B24LS depending on year model according to the application manual. I know that it is possible to fit both of these to the euro and that is why they have listed both.

The MF75D23L RRP is $167.20 inc GST which is what the Supercharge battery warehouse should sell them at. But you should find a reseller retailing for less then that. The MF55B24LS RRP is $145.20 inc GST which is the same deal as the one above.

Both have a 3 year warranty and my mate tells me that supercharge are very good with their warranty process.

As stated before both of these batteries are full maintenance free with the MF55B24LS cranking at 450 CCA and the MF75D23L cranking at 610 CCA.

As for the early posts saying that once a battery goes flat it is stuffed i can assure you that is very untrue. I have had a few die on me that have been bought to life with a good charger and they are like new again!

Anyone got any queries i can ask my mate any questions you may have..

[mofolo]

I got an 04 Luxury thats still running its original battery.

It ran flat 2 weeks ago because i turned the xenons on without the motor being on (stupid me).

Got it jump started and it's accepting charge.
It's a wet-cell battery and it's showing signs that it needs to be replaced (one of the cells dry out quickly), and it needs more cranks to get the motor going.

I need advice on which battery I should go for?
My mech recommended the OEM battery (can't remember its name), he also said wet-cell is much better for the Euro.

any opinions/advice? Thanks.

[Crapdaz]

go with supercharge, ac delco
something with more charge than the stock 330CCA.

[aaronng]

All car batteries in the sub $200 price range are wet acid batteries. When you go to the $300 range, then you start to get into gel-acid territory.

To replace your stock battery, you can use MF55B24LS. That is the same size as OEM.

[mofolo]

Supercharge classic or gold?

[racerwannabe]

Get Exide batteries..they are made in Australia and only cost a bit more than Supercharged Gold...they have the same 36months warranty as well. Supercharged are made in Phillipines. Not offence to Phillipinos but I believing in supporting the Australian manufacturing industry.

[traumatized]

Supercharge classic or gold?

Supercharge Gold

[Crapdaz]

Silver :)

[aaronng]

Supercharge classic or gold?

Gold.

[aaronng]

Get Exide batteries..they are made in Australia and only cost a bit more than Supercharged Gold...they have the same 36months warranty as well. Supercharged are made in Phillipines. Not offence to Phillipinos but I believing in supporting the Australian manufacturing industry.

I agree, Exide is good too. I have an Exide in our Astra at the moment.

[mofolo]

K-mart has 25% off batteries. They're selling exide.
Should i go with the exide?

[aaronng]

K-mart has 25% off batteries. They're selling exide.
Should i go with the exide?

Sure. Make sure you get the one in the correct size and the maintenance free version.

[mofolo]

So the dry-cell batteries?

I'll have it installed hopefully by today and let you know how it goes. Thanks

[racerwannabe]

So the dry-cell batteries?

I'll have it installed hopefully by today and let you know how it goes. Thanks

The red ones which comes with 36 months warranty

[aaronng]

So the dry-cell batteries?

I'll have it installed hopefully by today and let you know how it goes. Thanks

Not dry cell. They are still wet acid. But they are sealed and the water in the acid doesn't evaporate away as quickly as a regular battery. The stock battery in the Euro is also a maintenance-free wet acid battery.

[mofolo]

I got it.

Exide 'Extra' maintenance free,

There is no difference with cranks,
but overall i feel a lot more confident with a 3 year warranty.

Can't go wrong.

[BE.10.WU]

Comments about exide being better because its Australian made are outrageous.

Goodluck with you Exide battery mate. Make sure you keep your receipt in the glove box as i can guarentee that your gunna need it within the next 3 years!

[mofolo]

I'll let u know how I go Be10Wu.

What battery would you have recommended?

[BE.10.WU]

As i wrote a big post about before. I have sold nearly all types of batteries from Century, Supercharge, Exide, Apollo, General, Optima, Civic just to name a few. The ONLY battery company that didn't have many failures was Supercharge, Not to mention that ALL Supercharge Batteries have a much higher cranking rate then the others.

For example i sell on average 40 Batteries a week at work. When we had other brands we would have about 10+ per week come back under warranty. We now sell Supercharge and have done so for a few years and we would be lucky to push through 10 claims per year!

And despite what anyone may think Optima batteries are THE WORST you can buy!

[mofolo]

Ah well. Next time I'll go for the SuperCharge.

I wanted to stimulate the Australian economy buying Australian brands, so next time (if the economy is back to "normal") we'll go for the imported batteries.

How long you been in the Auto Business Be10?

[BE.10.WU]

For about 15 years i have been in the industry for.

As for stimulating the Australian economy. Supercharge do work in Australia and do supply some australian made products aswell. So by buying from them (or their products) you would still stimulate the economy as you keep their employees in a job and then they get to spend their pay in Australia too..

Mind you though this is the same for anyone selling imported goods.

[sash_euro]

ive had the original battery for 5 years now :S maybe time for a replacement. Did well for a small battery and not to mention the number of times my mum left the lights on when she would borrow it, shes too accustomed to toyotas lol

I too will be looking for a new battery soon, as soon i fix the other shit with it.

[.QD]

Would I be needing a new battery or do I have an issue with my key/immobiliser? For the last few weeks I've been having intermittent starting issues. I use to be able to just hop in the car and start the car up.

Now starting the car in the same pace/fashion one of the following would happen:
- car will try to start then cut off, like the immobiliser is switching off then on again?
- immobiliser stays off?, and nothing happens when u try to start
- hear a scratching like noise behind the coin compartment area (immobiliser?) and car doesnt start.

Told Honda about it when I had it serviced, but when they tested it worked fine and they connected to their computer and didnt find anything.

Tested using the other set of keys and same thing.

[BE.10.WU]

QD. Doesn't sound like the battery at all..

Id definately take it to a reputable auto electrician and get them to have a look at it for you. First port of call will be to do a battery test which should rule that out going off what you say is happening.

Possibly the immobiliser unit and not the keys themselves.

[10KRPM]

What is this idle relearn malarky that is done after changing the battery?

[HunterZero]

Idle relearn is something the engine does by itself. You don't have to do anything, but it helps when you turn the car on for the first time after reconnecting the battery if you let it idle for about 20 mins.

When you disconnect the battery, the engine fuel trims reset. When you start the engine after reconnecting the battery, the car may idle a bit roughly until the engine management 'relearns' to idle smoothly by collecting enough data from engine sensors.

You also have to recalibrate your driver's auto up/down window. To do this, you hold down the window down control until the window is all the way down, count for a second or two then release the switch. Then do the same rolling the window back up.

- HZ

[D R U]

BE.10.WU (http://ozhonda.com/forum/member.php?u=24746)

How has your experience been with optima batts?
Is it build quality, reliability, warranty issues that make them bad?

Ive only ever owned one so i cant really comment about them, but my yellow top has never given me problems.

But i think one of the posts on my cousins yellow top came lose :thumbdwn:.

[tron07]

Anyone got a pic of the euro's battery in the engine bay??

[sash_euro]

Anyone got a pic of the euro's battery in the engine bay??



http://img2.scoop.co.nz/stories/images/0402/3228276ec3f0e2fa45c7.jpeg

p.s. google is your friend

[tron07]

Thanks..... I got photos of my engine bay at home, just want to have a look at it that time in the office, so just post and see how it goes.

[aaronng]

Thanks..... I got photos of my engine bay at home, just want to have a look at it that time in the office, so just post and see how it goes.

Don't you drive your car to work? If so, your engine bay is just outside. :p

[wtfhax]

Anybody bought a supercharge battery in sydney lately?

Their dealer hotline are bloody useless.

And Honda is charging ~$150 for the ACDelco.. wtf?

[tony1234]

Anybody bought a supercharge battery in sydney lately?

Their dealer hotline are bloody useless.

And Honda is charging ~$150 for the ACDelco.. wtf?
Don't get the battery the Honda service dept.sell.As you said it's $150 and it's only 320CCA.I bought one with 3yr.warranty,450CCA for $108

[kleung]

Don't get the battery the Honda service dept.sell.As you said it's $150 and it's only 320CCA.I bought one with 3yr.warranty,450CCA for $108

I got quoted $189 for the dealership battery at my most recent service a few weeks ago.

I looked up some AC Delco resellers, and rang R&E Auto Parts first, in Glen Waverley, only to be told that they no longer carry AC Delco batteries.

Fortunately, Pistons Auto Parts, which is just around the corner from my office, also carries AC Delco. I just picked up my new battery (S55B24LS) from there today for $92.

[corn_flakes]

thought i'd revive this thread rather than start a new one since it has loads of info...

anyway, i think my euro's battery is starting to die after 4 years. i went away for 7 weeks and came back to a completely dead battery. i hooked it up to a charger overnight and the car fired up fine the next day, although i'm worried that the battery is on it's way to the grave.


how much voltage should a battery be holding?? i was under the assumption that 12.8V and over is what it should be if the battery is holding 80-100% of its charge.

my battery was holding 12.8V after i recharged it, but a few days later it now holds 12.45V. i played around with it for a bit and turned the radio on and the voltage dropped to 12.15V. when i switched the radio and all electrics off the battery slowly returned to it's normal state of 12.45V.


should a good and healthy battery be holding at least 12.8V or more? if you went out to your euro now with a multimeter and checked your battery, what would it read? :)

[limleong]

thought i'd revive this thread rather than start a new one since it has loads of info...

anyway, i think my euro's battery is starting to die after 4 years. i went away for 7 weeks and came back to a completely dead battery. i hooked it up to a charger overnight and the car fired up fine the next day, although i'm worried that the battery is on it's way to the grave.


how much voltage should a battery be holding?? i was under the assumption that 12.8V and over is what it should be if the battery is holding 80-100% of its charge.

my battery was holding 12.8V after i recharged it, but a few days later it now holds 12.45V. i played around with it for a bit and turned the radio on and the voltage dropped to 12.15V. when i switched the radio and all electrics off the battery slowly returned to it's normal state of 12.45V.


should a good and healthy battery be holding at least 12.8V or more? if you went out to your euro now with a multimeter and checked your battery, what would it read? :)

4 years is not a bad life for a battery. Some might even argue that anything above 3 years is on borrowed time if you live in hot (or cold) climate. My car batteries do usually last between 4 - 5 years.

In the past I had bad experiences where batteries died at inconvenience time. So I mostly would preemptively replace batteries when they hit about the 5 years mark (if it is not dead before).

[Neesmo31]

Century Marine Pro - extra strength internally (as boats bash and bounce around) so there is less chance of cell failure, and then shove some INOX battery conditioner in there.

I had a marine pro in my skyline with a big stereo that has lasted over 5 years now, probably 6 years which is nuts for a battery.

[aaronng]

Century Marine Pro - extra strength internally (as boats bash and bounce around) so there is less chance of cell failure, and then shove some INOX battery conditioner in there.

I had a marine pro in my skyline with a big stereo that has lasted over 5 years now, probably 6 years which is nuts for a battery.

Nice battery, but it doesn't come in the same size as the stock battery. Might be able to fit it if you remove the battery cover and base though.

[Neesmo31]

Yeah - didnt think about physical size... Sorry. :(

[sodaz]

Just installed an Optima D51R to replace my 450CCA Supercharge Gold. It's almost a perfect fit. Lights are brighter and it cranks heaps easier. When I upgraded to the Supercharge Gold before I almost couldn't tell the difference between that and the crappy stock battery. Asked the guy to test my old battery and apparently the CCAs dropped to 360 over 3 years. I have UR pulleys in my car too so hopefully a deep cycle battery will help.

[sk3103]

This might sound silly but how about the good ol' NRMA batteries? That's what I have at the moment... What brand is it? How about the level of CCA?

[corn_flakes]

anyone bought a supercharge gold recently? if so where and what prices did u get?

i'm going to give a few places a call in sydney tomorrow to get prices on the MF55B24LS

[aaronng]

anyone bought a supercharge gold recently? if so where and what prices did u get?

i'm going to give a few places a call in sydney tomorrow to get prices on the MF55B24LS

Auburn Autobarn has it for about $130-140. Worth it if they have their 20% off sale. But if you go to the smaller locally-owned auto parts shops, they can get it cheaper. I use Streetech out at Toongabbie. http://www.streetech.com.au/index1.html

[corn_flakes]

just picked up a supercharge gold for the euro for $105.

yet to install it in the car. but does anyone notice how the terminals look 'smaller' than the stock euro battery? (ie. the diameter of the terminals look smaller. i hope my stock terminals fit it).

also, do you think i'm going to notice a difference compared to the stock battery? i'm hoping the car will now start within 2-3 cranks, unlike 4 cranks it takes at the moment.



another question. now usually u have to drive for around 30mins+ in order to charge up your battery again right? so if i do alot of short 5min trips where i'm starting/stopping the car all the time then it can't be good for the battery right?

is there a difference in driving for 30mins+ to charge your battery, vs hooking up a trickle charger to the battery to charge it?

[V205]

Hi guys,

My 2005 Euro's battery is on it's way out. Is the Supercharge Gold MF55B24LS still the best bang for bux and safe reliable choice for the CL9? Where are the good places to get pricing in Melb east side? Thanks!

[tony1234]

Auburn Autobarn has it for about $130-140. Worth it if they have their 20% off sale. But if you go to the smaller locally-owned auto parts shops, they can get it cheaper. I use Streetech out at Toongabbie. http://www.streetech.com.au/index1.html

Aaron what is the CCA of this model battery?

[Darkii_]

Bought my supercharge gold awhile back at autobarn with 20% off entertainment book voucher for about $120.

Seems a lot better than my ~3 year old stock battery, the sound from the speakers/start up seems a bit better.

I think the one i got is 450CCA

[corn_flakes]

yeh it's 450CCA. model number MF55B24L


***EDIT: it is model number MF55B24LS. NOTE the 'S' at the end. i just realised i bought the wrong one (MF55B24L) which is exactly the same except the terminals are SMALL and don't fit. :(

[natnat]

i got a supercharge gold installed at top one last week, $150 fitted with 3 yrs warranty. the stock one did not die yet, but was weak as tested... couple of years ago my previous car's battery died just on the first day of starting a new job.. BIG LESSON :p

[by-life]

I replaced my battery with RACV battery, and found the new one is quite smaller. It's height is matched but length is quite shorter.

[aaronng]

Aaron what is the CCA of this model battery?

It's 450CCA. Slightly higher than the AC Delco (which I think is 420CCA).

[SL8512]

OPTIMA yellow top is what I had before

[V205]

Honda's OEM battery CL9 is only 350'ish CCA?? Or is it the same as the AC Delco 420 CCA? Still don't know what to swap it with as Supercharge Gold is hard to find in Melb. How about Century? I'm not interested in kmart exide.

[kleung]

Honda's OEM battery CL9 is only 350'ish CCA?? Or is it the same as the AC Delco 420 CCA? Still don't know what to swap it with as Supercharge Gold is hard to find in Melb. How about Century? I'm not interested in kmart exide.

The original battery fitted to my 2004 CL9 was a Yuasa, can't remember the CCA rating. It was in the mid 300s though IIRC. I replaced it not long ago with an AC Delco S55B24LS, 430CCA, 30mth warranty, purchased for $92 from Pistons Auto Parts in Boronia. The original battery was still going (6 years!), but starting to show its age.

[V205]

Thanks KLeung, how is the AC Delco S55B24LS, 430CCA battery performing for you? How long have been running it? Thanks.

Anyone use using this battery in their Euro and comments?

[V205]

Thanks KLeong, I picked up the AC-Delco battery from Piston Auto Parts around noon.. My car started weak this morning... so the timing is good.

[aaronng]

Thanks KLeung, how is the AC Delco S55B24LS, 430CCA battery performing for you? How long have been running it? Thanks.

Anyone use using this battery in their Euro and comments?
I've been using this battery since 2006. It's good and about time to be replaced because I discharged it til it went flat by accident when I was working on my car for a long long time with the boot lights on. :(

[biee2]

mm, yeah i got another SuperChargeGold MF75D23L @ Autobarn for $159.
Slightly bigger than stock as its for the 03 model only, but it will fit other Euro models, so you need to lose the bottom battery tray, but its 610CCA. :)

so the SuperChargeGold MF75D23L does fit the euro? i have 06 euro and if it fits, then i would lik to purchase this battery. my car been sitting in the garage with the flat battery for lik a month now i think :(

[aaronng]

so the SuperChargeGold MF75D23L does fit the euro? i have 06 euro and if it fits, then i would lik to purchase this battery. my car been sitting in the garage with the flat battery for lik a month now i think :(
You have to remove the plastic battery tray in order to fit this bigger battery. Beneath the battery tray is some sheet metal parts, which you might want to put a flat piece of plastic over to prevent any edges from digging into the bottom of the battery.

[biee2]

You have to remove the plastic battery tray in order to fit this bigger battery. Beneath the battery tray is some sheet metal parts, which you might want to put a flat piece of plastic over to prevent any edges from digging into the bottom of the battery.

thanks for the heads up aaronng
anyways i got the battery from autobarn and it was $159 for the MF75D23L. bring in your old battery and you get a $10 discount :P so in the end my battery costed me $149 which i thought was alright. but yeah i thought i take some photos and post them up here if any one else wants to try out this battery. its alot more fat then the stick oem battery so will have to removed all the plastic covers that covers the old battery.

http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/biee2/IMG-20101220-00019.jpg

aaronng suggested to me to cut a peace of plastic out and place down the buttom of the battery but i didnt do it cos i thought it was reasonable flat and couldnt see anything realli that would dig into the battery over time. the onli thing that i thought would or might cut the battery would be this metal edge though. you could place a plastic sheet if you wanna take extra care.

http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/biee2/IMG-20101220-000df20.jpg

and the finish product hehe :p
i used a peace of cardboard as you might see in this picture to stop the metal edge from doin anything serious to the battery. yeshh i kno im dodgy LOL

http://i952.photobucket.com/albums/ae7/biee2/IMG-20101220-00021.jpg

overall the car started up nice and strong after being dormant for lik a month or so. took about 2-3 cranks i think it was and the engine was running. seem ALOT more easier to start then with the old oem battery that i had.

[Type R Positive]

Got to get a new battery for my CU2 :(
It failed electronic test at service today, -30%.
I'll try and get a supercharge gold. Probably cost an arm and a leg up here though...

[Type R Positive]

Still $149 at autobarns wOOt! Got the supercharge gold MF55B24LS and it's exact same size and fit if anyone else with a CU2 is wondering.

Old battery was a panasonic. Not sure of the specs, but it was well and truely stuffed.

[SPQR]

Still $149 at autobarns wOOt! Got the supercharge gold MF55B24LS and it's exact same size and fit if anyone else with a CU2 is wondering.

Old battery was a panasonic. Not sure of the specs, but it was well and truely stuffed.

Car batteries don't last for long in the tropics.

[aaronng]

Might be because it is a panasonic. The old CL9 ones were Yuasa.

[Type R Positive]

Car batteries don't last for long in the tropics.
yeah, 2 years up here seems to be the norm.

[Speed_Rac3r]

I was in a bit of a jam last night when my car wouldnt start. Lucky was at home ready to go out. I think i left the stereo on too long while washing/detailing the car in the morning!

So frustrating..cant belive this happened to my ACDelco, thought it was one the beter ones! Now I've just bought a battery charger from Repco, and hooked it up. I'm considering if its time for a battery change, but the indicator on the ACDelco is white (needs charge).

Kinda new at this..WIsh me luck, and any tips before i explode my car are welcome..lol

http://img36.imageshack.us/img36/833/20110807160913.jpg

http://img809.imageshack.us/img809/5241/20110807160934.jpg

http://img718.imageshack.us/img718/7339/20110807161026.jpg

[Obs]

Thanks for all the info in this thread. I'm after a battery and was going to get stock from the dealer, but have now decided to go with a supercharge gold MF55B24LS based on the recommendations. I'm in Melb and rang around to get prices.

Supercharge office in Sunshine: $140.
Auto One: $122.XX (can't recall exactly), but was told he would do it for $110. I didn't even ask for a discount.
Auto Barn: $149. After hearing this I was hesitant and tried to end the call, but straight away was told they would price match my best offer and include fitting and disposal of old battery.

Pretty happy so far considering the dealer wanted over $150 just for the part.

[TRaNz]

Yeah, Super Charge Gold MF55B24LS seems to be a good bang for buck i reckon.

[deadcatt]

I just fitted a super charge MF75D23L in my 2004 Euro.

It was a tight fit. I used the plastic case my iPad cover came in as a ghetto battery cover (had to use aviation snips to cut it to the right size). Perfect fit!

The battery was $169 from Auto Barn.

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/6803/camerazoom2012051720431.th.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/233/camerazoom2012051720431.jpg/)
Old and new battery

http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/8074/camerazoom2012051721224.th.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/13/camerazoom2012051721224.jpg/)
Tight fit!

[ChaosMaster]

Any experience with batteries from SuperCheapAuto or Exide?

[BE.10.WU]

Where you buy them from doesn't matter as much, but Exide is rubbish! And that's putting it nicely.

[ChaosMaster]

Alright, I'ld avoid Exide then. How about Century?

[Fredoops]

Im thinking about replacing the battery terminals into something like this:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31Py1R1EC4L._SL500_AA300_.jpg
comments?

[TRaNz]

Im thinking about replacing the battery terminals into something like this:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31Py1R1EC4L._SL500_AA300_.jpg
comments?

yeah i got my terminals replaced with them Stinger ones with volt reading out the possie. Just looks fancy thats all. Only thing i thought of was if i had to be or were jumpstarting with another car, it might be a bit of a mission.

[08r3308]

was all ways fan of ac delco , i think they are great batteries and can be had for a decent price

[Fredoops]

yeah i got my terminals replaced with them Stinger ones with volt reading out the possie. Just looks fancy thats all. Only thing i thought of was if i had to be or were jumpstarting with another car, it might be a bit of a mission.

Well i just spent 2 hrs polishing and cleaning the OEM battery terminal thingo's using a sand paper and sawing needle.

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m341efzah11rs88hwo2_400.jpg

Amazon here I come.

[ChaosMaster]

Ok; Exide, SuperCheapAuto - Century or Kmart. Who has the best batteries, or what would you guys recommend? None of their websites are very helpful unfortuantely. Can't get CCA or capacity from them.

[racerwannabe]

Ok; Exide, SuperCheapAuto - Century or Kmart. Who has the best batteries, or what would you guys recommend? None of their websites are very helpful unfortuantely. Can't get CCA or capacity from them.

I had a supercharge gold for the past 3.5 years and it was still going strong but i decided to replace it as it's close to its end of life so to speak. It was replaced with a Century with 430CCA because it was from a fresh batch but it only has a 2 year warranty. The Exide on the other hand has a better warranty of 3 years at pretty much the same price. Either one would suffice and I don't you will notice any difference between the two. I'm just a bit wary about buying from Kmart or Big W as they generally sit on the shelf for a long time before they get sold.

[Fredoops]

how many of you actually service your batteries? as in cleaning terminals and top up distilled waters etc?

[ChaosMaster]

Seems like Kmart batteries are Exide as well. Exide have 3 year warranty on their Extra range, the models X60C rated 370CCA and the X60CA 390CCA. The Century NS60L is rated 430CCA but with 2 years warranty... Repco or Super Cheap Auto don't seem to have SuperCharge batteries....

[ChaosMaster]

Just for anyone else out there trying to decide as well. I went to Exide themselves and they charge $126 for the 390CCA. Both SuperCheap and AutoBarn charge $149 for the Century 430CCA. I didn't bother with SuperCharge as they weren't Aus made, gotta support the country somehow. Their rated the same as the Century and priced around the same anyway. AutoBarn do free fitment and will give $10 for your old battery though, not sure if SCA does that (the take your battery part not the free fitment).

[aldo10]

how many of you actually service your batteries? as in cleaning terminals and top up distilled waters etc?

I do, probably around every 3 months. Then every 6 months I throw them on a multi stage charger for a few days. I usually get around 5 to 6 years out of my batteries. I usually buy Century premium rated ones as they also make a cheaper version. They are usually only $30-$40 more. Having said that I tried Exide premium job for two batteries from Big W believe it or not and got a similar life from them too.

I tend to keep my cars for a while and rack up a few hundred thou before moving them on.

[opilot87]

I bought the bigger 610cca Supercharge battery yesterday. Just a warning as I didn't realize it was WAY WAY bigger than the original and I had to remove the bottom tray and side wrap around battery covers off the car to fit this battery. Also, but I think because I have a comptech icebox, I had to remove the top cover of the original air intake between the battery and headlight. But it seems to look and feel secure where it is now, at least I have a nice beefy battery, and was only $159.

Ollie

[ChaosMaster]

The bottom plate/tray can actually hold a bigger battery. It's just that you'ld do without the cover.

On a side note; anyone know where to buy that blue anti corrosion spray? I'm currently making do with WD40 but would pref that blue stuff that was on the OEM.

[condomsakti]

Bought a battery today for the Euro Lux. It's a Bosch S3 (55D23L-S3) 500CCA for $125 3 year warranty. http://www.bosch.com.au/content/language1/html/6567.htm http://www.bosch.com.au/content/language1/downloads/Bosch_Battery_Catalogue_Web_Ready.pdf Was gonna buy the AC DELCO $166 (too expensive) or Supercharge Gold, but then saw this Bosch S3 cheaper and higher CCA (500CCA)...So I give it a try :) see how it goes.