Is anyone using an Optima Yellow Top Dual Purpose D35 Battery as their main starting battery?
I've had my eye on a Yellow Top for when time comes to replace my current battery. But never tried one before.
I tried Optima years ago - not impressed and I think not value for money. I've stuck with Century.
Hmm. That doesn't sound encouraging.
The Optima has not been made in the US for a while. It is also not a top of the line battery though it is above average.
So Optima moved production, and quality went down the tubes?
I have been using a Duracell Platinum AGM. Very pleased. It is also available as dual purpose and costs a bit less than the Optima here.
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I would probably go Duracell Platinum AGM dual purpose next time.
That sounds more encouraging. Looked up the Platinum AGM line and it seems pretty solid.
Other than location, e.g. US v. Australia, another thing to consider is sourcing. For example, Optima is available at a good price on Amazon. However, buying from Amazon apparently voids the warranty, and people with problems have been SOL. So depending on brand, it might be worth it to figure out which store/chain sells what, and have them install it to make sure warranty holds up.
And then there's always the question of getting the right battery size. Don't want to do online returns with a lead acid battery.
I had an Optima Red Top in my 2003 XS Forester for 9 years, best battery I have ever owned.
That sounds like the legendary Optima quality I remember hearing about. Their reputation seems so strong, I hadn't even considered researching the question.
Yeah but Optima moved production since then.
Damn! I guess that messed things up. Back to square one.
The best batteries in the US are the X2 made by East Penn which also makes the Duracell that I have and the Odyssey which is also sold by Sears as DieHard Platinum whatever.
Interesting! How did you find out which factory makes quality batteries? And then which brands they produce OEM for?
My current battery is still good. But this discussion highlights that I need to look into this again, more thoroughly than I was planning to.
