For best performance, it’s always recommended to stick to the car battery brand and model that comes with your vehicle. But in some cases, a replacement is necessary. Although the allure of a lower upfront cost might seem tempting, the long-term consequences of a bad battery far outweigh any initial savings. A car battery is a crucial investment, not an expense to be minimized. So, here are some batteries you might want to think twice before using in your car.

Deka

Deka is famous for its car accessories like cables and terminals, but the quality of its lead-acid batteries is questionable. Some users report their batteries failing a load test within two to three years. Be sure to check the specific warranty details for your chosen Deka model.

Optima 

The name of Optima was associated with high-quality batteries until things went south for the brand when they relocated their production plant to Mexico. Users reported that the yellow-top and red-top batteries could not hold a charge, leaving car owners stranded several times. And the worst part is that the brand kept increasing the batteries’ prices.  

Amaron 

These affordable batteries seem a good option, but their availability depends on location and they’re more expensive than other models. Amaron’s batteries are known for relatively decent performance for the first year, but then problems start. Moreover, it is essential to research their warranty terms and ensure they’re valid in your area for after-sales service. 

Interstate 

Interstate batteries can be a gamble. While some users swear by them, others have experienced inconsistencies in quality and performance. The reason is mainly that this brand sells different batteries from various manufacturers who share the brand’s name. Although they’re all required to stick to manufacturing guidelines, inconsistency remains a big drawback. 

Exide

Many people noticed Exide paying influencers to recommend various battery models. However, when people tried them, they usually faced performance issues. It’s also quite common for an Exide battery to fail to crank up your car at lower temperatures. This brand delivers good inverter and storage batteries, but its automotive batteries’ quality remains questionable. 

DieHard

While DieHard has a long history as a reliable brand, some budget-friendly models have been linked to shorter lifespans and performance concerns. People who used the DieHard Advanced Gold 50748 reported longevity issues, with some batteries dying after six or seven weeks. 

Motorcraft

Motorcraft batteries are generally well-regarded for Ford vehicle owners who like to maintain their OEM. However, some car owners reported that their batteries wouldn’t hold a charge after two years of use. Some even mentioned that they were offered older batteries as replacements.

ACDelco

Although ACDelco batteries are often associated with reputable automotive brands, vehicle owners are, at best, unsatisfied with their overall performance. Most models fail within a year and a half to two years, especially in hotter climates.

Antigravity

For environmentally-conscious car owners, Antigravity batteries represent a greener option. However, their greener technology comes with a price. The batteries are more expensive, and their performance is usually poorer than their competitors. Additionally, their lightweight lithium technology might be overkill for most everyday drivers and better suited for racing applications.

Autocraft

Autocraft batteries are affordable, and many users report good cold-cranking scores. However, they have a lower-than-average reserve capacity, which can lead to overall performance issues and a shorter life. 

EverStart 

Many people choose Walmart’s Everstate as the budget option, but these batteries can be unreliable, with reports of shorter lifespans and inconsistent performance. The Everstart Value Group 65 specifically is one that you should avoid. 

Duralast 

Duralast’s Gold series is generally reliable, but their standard batteries might not offer the same level of performance or lifespan. Many users reported performance issues, with their batteries being unable to hold a charge or failing prematurely despite the company’s claims. 

Odyssey

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t praise old Odyssey batteries. However, their quality has deteriorated over the years. The high-quality AGM batteries still deliver exceptional performance and durability at a higher price point. Traditional flooded lead-acid batteries might be a more economical choice for most drivers but they aren’t as impressive. 

Power Pro 

Power Pro batteries are often positioned as a budget option available online. While some users report good value for the price,  others have experienced issues with shorter lifespans and inconsistent performance. If reliability is your top priority, you might be better off investing in a mid-range battery from a more established brand.

Duracell

You’ve probably heard about this brand because Duracell is a trusted name in general batteries. But its car battery range hasn’t established a long track record yet. While it might offer competitive warranties, its batteries usually display premature failure and poor reliability.