My battery died today. It's one of the original-looking Autolite and is only 2.5 years old. My mechanic said he thinks something inside broke.

So, I have a choice -- new similar original battery or a regular battery with an Autolite cover.

I'm leaning toward the latter because (a) it's not a show car and (b) if the new battery dies, it will be a lot easier to replace.

Which would you go with, and why?

 

"its not a show car"...option 2 ftw

most lead acid type batteries will only last 2 - 3 years anyway and generally on the lower end when they are not daily drivers or used only for short trips.

I cant remember the brand but you have access to a more modern design battery that will last a lot longer. someone will post it[&:]

 

Absolutely go with a more modern battery, with or without the cover. Like aussie said, the original batteries weren't very good to begin with.

 

I wanted to replace mine and put the cover on it. I could not find a flat top batterythat wouldaccept the cover.

 

I called Interstate Battery and told them I needed a Group 24 Top Post battery and they said they have them in stock.

If I go with the cover, I'd wait until I had it, then go to Interstate or Sears with the cover in hand to be sure it fits.

 

I'd suggest the Optima Battery 9020-164 (Summit). Should be able to get it at many local auto shops.

 

Well, I bought the cover but like ThanksDad, could not find a battery to fit it. Went to 4 places with no luck. Ended up calling and ordering another original for $250 vs. the $50 for the cover. Oh well.

The cover came close to fitting one so the saleswoman suggested I cut into the cover, drill the hole bigger, etc. I then said, "and if it looks like crap after that, I'm now stuck with a fifty-dollar piece of plastic." Her recommendation is I buy a regular battery from them and just take the cut/drilled cover with me and when someone wants to look under the hood, put the cover on. Duh?