Each forward-looking auto lover strives to buy the best car jump starter and battery. But this task is not easy to solve if you have never studied the features of such devices. It is necessary to analyze multiple parameters, environmental factors, and exploitation mode of your vehicle in order to choose the most suitable equipment.
One of the questions you are likely to ask: is it better to have a battery with maximum CCA? In the article below, we explain what this indicator means and provide helpful guidelines for choosing the value corresponding to your needs.
What CCA is
Cold cranking amps are the discharge load delivered by new and 100% charged battery for 30 seconds at (0°F/-18°C). Terminal voltage should be maintained at the level of 1,20 volts per cell or above. Batteries are tested in a cold environment because it is easier to operate a vehicle under usual conditions, while residents of areas with harsh climate would tell you that it is rather challenging for them to start a car, especially high-mileage diesel trucks.
Drivers should use CCA to make sure their auto would operate smoothly under any conditions. Of course, the temperature may drop below 0°F and an engine may be cranked longer than 30 seconds. But such situations are uncommon and usually ignored while developing universal standards. If you are afraid of getting into trouble because of low CCA, better choose a battery with an emergency margin.
Is it better to buy a battery with the highest CCA
So, how big should the margin be? In order to be invulnerable to cold temperatures, some drivers buy batteries with the highest CCA. Due to excessive precaution, they pay extra for amps that will never be used. Of course, it is good to care for the health of your vehicle. But do not overdo it. Base your choice of a standard CCA and slightly increase it. 300 additional amps are obviously useless. You would just squander your money.
Why do drivers look for high CCA
“The more the better” is a myth created by battery manufacturers. The same thing is done with the horsepower of sports cars. Brands mislead their clients by claiming that the highest CCA is the prerequisite of a vehicle’s proper operation, while more important indicators stay downplayed. Standard equipment is thus overpriced.
Also, many marketers point at CA (cranking amps) instead of CCA. This is the same parameter as CCA, with the only difference that it is measured at 32°F (0°C). As said above, it is easier to start a car in warm weather. Therefore, CA is higher than CCA. Not understanding the difference between these two values and being guided by the principle “The more the better”, many inexperienced auto lovers buy expensive batteries because “brand A has more cranking amps than brand B”.
Do not dance to the tune of scammers. Analyze the parameters of auto equipment and think well before investing in overpriced products.
