When it’s time to replace your car battery, you’ll quickly realise there’s more to it than just “grabbing a new one.” From AGM to Calcium to EFB, understanding the different types of car batteries can save you time, money, and potential breakdowns. In this guide, we’ll break down:
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The different types of car batteries
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What Amp Hour (Ah) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) mean
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Which battery suits which vehicle — from Ford Rangers to Teslas and BMWs
1. AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)
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Best for: Start-Stop vehicles, high-end European cars, vehicles with heavy electronics
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Features: Spill-proof, vibration resistant, longer life, deep-cycle capable
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Typical Use: Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Lexus hybrids, luxury SUVs
2. EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery)
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Best for: Entry to mid-level Start-Stop vehicles
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Features: More durable than standard flooded batteries, cost-effective alternative to AGM
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Typical Use: Ford Ranger (Start-Stop models), Toyota HiLux, Hyundai Tucson
3. Calcium Batteries
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Best for: Standard vehicles without Start-Stop
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Features: Long shelf life, minimal water loss, good performance in heat
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Typical Use: Older models or basic trims without heavy electrical load
🔍 What Do Amp Hour (Ah) and CCA Mean?
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Amp Hour (Ah) measures how much current a battery can supply over time.
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Example: A 70 Ah battery can deliver 3.5 A for 20 hours.
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Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) indicates the current a battery can provide at 0 °C for 30 seconds while maintaining voltage.
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Essential for cold starts and diesel engines
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Example: A 750 CCA battery has more starting power than a 500 CCA battery.
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🚘 What Battery Does My Car Use?
| Vehicle | Battery Type | Start-Stop? |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Ranger | EFB / AGM (Start-Stop trims) | Yes |
| Toyota HiLux | EFB / AGM | Some models |
| Isuzu D-Max | EFB / Standard Lead-Acid | Some models |
| MG ZS | Calcium / EFB | Varies |
| Toyota RAV4 | AGM (Hybrids), EFB (Petrol) | Yes |
| Tesla Model Y | Lithium-ion auxiliary | EV |
| Mitsubishi Outlander | AGM (PHEV), EFB (Petrol) | Yes |
| Mazda CX-5 | EFB / AGM | Yes |
| Hyundai Tucson | EFB / AGM | Yes |
| Toyota Prado | AGM (Diesel), EFB (Petrol) | Some models |
| Kia Sportage | EFB / AGM | Yes |
| Hyundai i30 | Calcium / EFB | Varies |
| Toyota Corolla | EFB / AGM (Hybrids) | Yes |
| Mazda CX-3 | EFB / Calcium | Varies |
| Mitsubishi Triton | EFB (New), Calcium (Old) | Some models |
| Subaru Forester | AGM (Hybrids), EFB (Petrol) | Yes |
| Nissan X-Trail | EFB / AGM | Yes |
| Hyundai Kona | Li-ion (EV), EFB / AGM (Petrol) | Yes |
| Tesla Model 3 | Lithium-ion auxiliary | EV |
| Kia Cerato | Calcium / EFB | Varies |
| BMW X1 / X5 | AGM | Some models |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC / GLA | AGM | Some models |
| Audi Q3 | AGM | Some models |
| Lexus NX | AGM / EFB (Hybrid) | Some models |
| Volvo XC40 | AGM | Some models |
| Porsche Macan | AGM | Some models |
| Land Rover / Range Rover | AGM (often twin battery setup) | Some models |
| MINI | AGM | Some models |
| Genesis | AGM | Some models |
🧰 Final Thoughts
Choosing the right battery—AGM for heavy electronics, EFB for Start-Stop systems, or Calcium for basic needs—ensures reliability and peak performance for your vehicle.
📞 Not Sure Which Battery You Need?
Call Auto Hero Roadside Assistance today on 1800 79 79 77 for on-site battery testing, delivery, and replacement in Sydney.
We carry AGM, EFB, and standard batteries—fully fitted, fast, and affordable.
Not in Sydney and need a battery? Submit a quote HERE and local mechanic’s will get back to you with there best price.
Written By
Matt Banks
Matt is the founder of Autohero.com.au and has been hooked on cars ever since childhood.
A veteran in automotive since leaving school, Matt has completed his trade as a panel beater and is across all things with wheels.
His first car was a 1967 FORD XR Wagon followed by a string of collectable Holden’s.
Have a question for Matt? leave a comment below.