How Much Does a Car Battery Weigh? A Guide to Common Battery Weights

Do you need to lift or replace your car's battery and want to know what to expect? The weight of a car battery varies depending on type, size and materials. This guide covers standard battery weights to help you handle and install your automotive battery safely.

Average Weight of Lead-Acid Car Batteries

Most modern vehicles use lead-acid batteries. Lead-acid batteries contain plates made of lead submerged in an electrolyte solution of sulphuric acid and water.

The average lead-acid car battery weighs around:

• 25-40 pounds - Standard sizes like Group 35 or Group 65 used in many passenger cars and light trucks.
• 50-60 pounds - Larger Group 75 batteries in full-size pickups, SUVs, and some luxury vehicles.
• Up to 100 pounds - Heavy duty and commercial trucks often use large Group 31 batteries over 70 pounds.

So you can expect a typical car or pickup battery to weigh between 30-60 lbs. Smaller batteries under 25 lbs are usually found in motorcycles or specialty vehicles.

Key Factors That Determine Car Battery Weight

What makes some lead-acid batteries heavier than others? Here are the key factors:

Battery Group Size

Batteries are classified by Group Size numbers like 35, 65, 75, etc. The higher the group number, the larger the battery:

• Small batteries like Group 24 are 13" x 6.5" x 7.5" and weigh around 25 lbs.
• Group 65 batteries measure 12" x 6 3/4" x 9" and weigh 35-40 lbs.
• Large Group 31's are 13" x 6 11/16" x 9 3/8" and can weigh 50-60 lbs.

So the group size gives a general indication of battery dimensions and weight.

Power Capacity

A battery's power capacity is measured in Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) or Reserve Capacity (RC):

• More plates and more electrolyte equal increased power capacity.
• Higher CCA or RC ratings require bigger, heavier plates and more electrolyte.
• Trucks or diesel vehicles need 750-1000 CCA batteries that weigh more.

Choose the minimum CCA rating required for your vehicle to avoid oversized batteries.

Battery Terminals

Top or side terminal batteries impact weight:

• Top terminal batteries allow for thinner, lighter cases.
• Side terminal need thick walls to withstand clamping force, adding weight.
• Top post batteries weigh 1-2 lbs less than side terminals of the same group size.

Construction Materials

The metals and alloys used in plates impact the weight:

• Standard lead-calcium alloy plates are lighter than pure lead plates.
• Thinner grid alloy allows for less lead, reducing weight.
• More advanced alloys like lead-tin weigh less than lead-calcium.

Plastics cases are lighter than rubberized or steel encased batteries. Every construction detail affects the scale.

Average Lithium-Ion Car Battery Weights

Lithium-ion batteries are gaining popularity:

• They weigh 30-50% less than equivalent lead-acid batteries.
• A mid-size lithium battery weighs just 10-15 lbs vs. over 30 lbs for a lead-acid.
• Li-ion batteries need less space and location flexibility due to lightness.

Here are typical lithium-ion car battery weights:

• Small batteries are under 5 lbs.
• Mid-size batteries weigh 10-15 lbs.
• Full-size lithium batteries weigh 15-25 lbs.
• Performance versions weigh 25-30 lbs.

Lithium-ion is the go-to battery type for electric vehicles and hybrids. Their reduced weight vs. lead-acid helps maximize fuel economy and driving range.

Weight Differences Between a Standard, AGM, and Gel Battery

You may also choose between standard wet cell, AGM, or Gel lead-acid batteries. Here is how they compare for weight:

Standard Wet Cell Lead-Acid Battery

• Uses liquid sulphuric acid electrolyte.
• Considered the standard lead-acid battery type.
• Average weight ranges match typical lead-acid weights above.

Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) Battery

• Uses "starved" electrolyte absorbed in fiberglass mats.
• More vibration resistance but can weigh 1-2 lbs more than a wet cell.
• Slight weight increase due to the thicker fiberglass mats.

Gel Battery

• Uses a silica-based "gel" rather than liquid electrolyte.
• Requires thicker internal plates to prevent drying out.
• Gel batteries weigh 2-5 lbs more than equivalent wet cell battery.

For all lead-acid types, higher performance batteries will weigh more regardless of electrolyte used due to increased plate thickness and internal resistance.

Average Weight of a Car Battery By Manufacturer

Do certain manufacturers produce lighter or heavier batteries? Let's look at average weights by brand.

Bosch

Known for quality and performance. Group 35 batteries average 38-42 lbs. Group 65's are in the 45-50 lb range.

Optima

Optima RedTop and YellowTop AGM batteries weight 10-15 lbs more than comparable options. Dual purpose starting/deep cycle use requires heavier plates.

EverStart

Known as a budget brand. But weights are in line with major brands, with Group 35's around 37-39 lbs and Group 65's weighing 43-46 lbs. Can be a cost effective option.

DieHard

Sears' premium brand with trusted quality. Weights span the typical range, with Group 24's averaging 26-29 lbs and Group 65's around 39-46 lbs.

Odyssey

Extreme AGM batteries feature heavy duty plates. Group 35's are in the 46-52 lb range. Better cold cranking power means more weight.

AC Delco

General Motor's OEM brand. Weights are average for OEM replacements, with AC Delco Group 35's weighing 34-38 lbs.

As you can see, most major brands weigh about the same for a given group size. Pay more attention to power ratings and features than minor weight savings between brands.

Do I Need a "Lightweight" Battery?

With battery weights varying significantly, a "lightweight" model seems appealing. But are lighter batteries better?

The short answer is: it depends. Here are the pros and cons of a lightweight battery:

Pros

• Easier for installation and removal, especially in hard to access spots.
• Improves fuel economy slightly thanks to shedding a few pounds.
• Allows flexibility in battery position since it can be conveniently moved.

Cons

• Lightweight often means lower power output ratings.
• May not provide enough cold cranking amps for your vehicle.
• Durability and lifespan may be lower than heavier batteries.
• Higher cost than standard weight battery of equivalent size.

Before paying extra for the lightest battery, make sure it meets or exceeds the CCA and power needs for your car or truck. Possessing the right power capabilities for your vehicle is more important than shaving off a few pounds.

Finding the Optimal Car Battery Weight

Determining the right weight battery for your vehicle involves three key steps:

1. Identify Your Vehicle's Battery Requirements

Check your owner's manual for:

• Recommended Group Size
• Minimum CCA rating
• Any required power specs like Reserve Capacity

Matching these specs ensures proper starting and power delivery.

2. Weigh Your Current Battery

Lift out the existing battery and weigh it on a bathroom or shipping scale. This provides a good baseline weight.

3. Choose Within Your Target Battery Weight Range

Given your required size and power ratings, opt for a weight in the middle of the typical range. Avoid extremes on either end to optimize cost, durability and performance.

Getting the right balance of power capabilities and reasonable weight results in a smooth installation plus years of reliable starting power.

Handling Heavy Car Batteries Safely

Once you know the estimated weight, follow these tips for safely lifting and installing heavy batteries without injury:

• Always use proper lifting technique - lift with legs bent while keeping back straight. Avoid twisting.
• Wear steel-toe boots for protection in case of drops.
• Use handling aids like straps and handles when available.
• Remove any jewelry or loose clothing that could catch on terminals.
• Carefully read all safety notes in the installation manual.
• Keep a first aid kit nearby and know protocols if acid contacts skin.
• Store batteries upright and securely to prevent tipping and acid leaks.
• Ask for help when required - don't take chances lifting over 50 lbs alone.

A little planning goes a long way towards safely working with heavy batteries without hurting yourself or your vehicle.

FAQs

How can I find my car's stock battery weight?

The vehicle owner's manual often lists the factory battery specs including weight. You can also call the dealership service department to learn the OEM battery weight.

What's the difference between a Lithium Ion and AGM battery?

Key differences:

• Lithium Ion batteries are much lighter and provide more cold cranking amps in a smaller case size.
• AGM batteries use absorbed electrolyte instead of liquid while Lithium Ion use no liquid at all.
• Lithium Ion cost more currently but can last longer than lead-acid.

Does a bigger, heavier battery necessarily provide more power?

Not always. Thanks to improved engineering and materials, smaller and lighter batteries these days can deliver equal or higher power, especially Lithium Ion models. Choose a battery based on required CCA rating, not maximum size and weight.

What is the lightest car battery available?

For lead-acid batteries, Group 24 or Group 51 size provide the lightest weight option at around 20-25 lbs. Lithium Ion batteries under 10 lbs give you minimum weight. But ensure light batteries still meet your car's power needs.

Why are some car batteries so heavy?

The lead plates plus lead-acid electrolyte give batteries a high density. And the sturdy plastic or steel-reinforced cases add weight while protecting the fragile plates inside. More power capacity requires bigger and thicker plates which mean more weight.

Weigh Your Options When Replacing Your Car Battery

As you've learned, car battery weights span a wide range depending on battery types, group size, power ratings and build quality. Understanding the factors that increase density and accounting for automotive power requirements will ensure you choose the optimal new or replacement battery for your vehicle. Keep proper lifting technique and safety in mind when handling heavy batteries during installation. Knowing battery weights gives you confidence when making this important vehicle upgrade.

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