Expertpickhub Batteries Best Battery for Honda CR-V Reviews

Best Battery for Honda CR-V Reviews

The Honda CR-V is a popular SUV among many people. One of the most important parts of the automobile is the battery, and it needs to be in proper condition so you can get out of a tight spot.

This review will help you find the best battery for Honda CR-V. It’ll also explain how to select the right power source to avoid breakdowns, spillages, and other issues. Interested? Then let’s get to it!

What to look for when choosing a battery for a Honda CRV?

What kind of battery does Honda CR-V use?

When car owners need to replace the original vehicle’s battery, the first step is to determine the battery group size. Although you may utilize batteries from different group sizes, it’s always better to use a power source approved for your car. The right item will provide the right amount of power to turn the motor on. When the engine isn’t running, it’ll produce enough reserve power to operate the lights, stereo system, and other electronics.

Honda CV-R typically uses two groups of batteries – 35 and 51R. Previously, most Honda CVRs used group 51R batteries. But since 2014, group 35 has been gaining popularity as well.

What’s the difference between these two groups?

First, the group 51R is physically smaller than 35. Secondly, The 51R is designed for colder climates, while the 35, though it has a higher CCA (cold cranking amps), performs better in warmer temperatures. So, if you live in an area with fierce winters, I’d recommend going with the 51R battery to make sure it starts when needed most!

Model year Battery group size
2010 Honda CR-V 51R
2011 Honda CR-V 51R
2012 Honda CR-V 51R
2013 Honda CR-V 51R
2014 Honda CR-V 51R, 35
2015 Honda CR-V 51R, 35
2016 Honda CR-V 51R, 35
2017 Honda CR-V 51R, 35
2018 Honda CR-V 51R, 35
2019 Honda CR-V 51R, 35
2020 Honda CR-V 51R, 35
2021 Honda CR-V 51R, 35

How to determine battery group size on Honda CR-V?

Do the following to find out your CR-V battery size:

  • Check the manufacturer’s specs in your Owner’s manual – it’s the first place where you should look for the battery group size. In the Owner’s manual, you’ll find a combination of letters and/or numbers that indicate the battery size.
  • Look carefully at your current battery. The group size must be printed on the side or top label if it’s an original one. You can also find other helpful info there, e.g., reserve charge and CCA.
  • Finally, you can ask an expert whose job is to keep your vehicle in good condition.

What’s the difference between SLI (starting), deep cycle, and dual-purpose batteries?

Difference between SLI, deep cycle, and dual-purpose batteries

These types of power sources are quite different from each other. So it’s essential to be aware of that difference to find the right item for your car.

SLI (start, lighting, and ignition) batteries are typically found in automobiles and motorcycles. These vehicles do not run on electricity for the duration of their journey. Instead, they only need to be powered up when they are started, and the battery charges during the ride. In other words, the SLI battery provides an immediate power boost while maintaining a significant portion of its charge. As a result, it can survive for several years without experiencing any problems.

Deep cycle – this type is engineered to be completely charged and discharged down to almost 0. It’s used in machines that rely on consistent power from the battery (golf cars, scooters, boats), making it ideal for long days on the course. SLI and deep cycle batteries may look similar, so check the label before adding a power source to your automobile.

Dual-purpose – this type is designed to achieve both SLI and deep-cycle goals. But not every dual-purpose power source is well-engineered. So, before buying, always read the manufacturer’s specs, product reviews, and customer reports.

What does cold cranking Amps (CCA) mean?

Cold-cranking amps or CCA rating offers you a general idea of what you should expect from the battery in cold temperatures when starting an automobile.

The more CCA the battery features, the more expensive it is. But not everybody needs to buy a power source based on the CCA rating! For example, if your car doesn’t usually see sub-zero temperatures, there’s no need for equipment with a lot of cranking power. So, in most cases, purchasing a power source with additional 300 CCAs isn’t necessary.

Best Battery for Honda CR-V Reviews

Group 51R battery for Honda CR-V

Optima Batteries OPT8073-167

Optima Batteries OPT8073-167

Optima is a top brand when it comes to car batteries, and the OPT8073-167 is not an exception. It actually helps your car’s engine run faster and more efficiently.

Compared to its lead-acid rivals (e.g., Autocraft Gold 51R-2), OPT8073-167 has lower peak and average cranking amps. However, the battery’s improved charge/discharge properties make it a better choice for Highlanders. Furthermore, with a starting power that lasts up to five times longer than conventional lead-acid, OPT8073-167 will never let you down. Another thing I love is the battery’s exceptional reserve capacity of 66 minutes for consistent performance.

OPT8073-167 is the best battery for Honda CR-V! You can buy it with confidence knowing that it brings more power to the motor and helps you accelerate faster.

Key specs
  • Group battery: 51R
  • Battery type: Dual purpose/deep cycle
  • CCA: 450
  • Reserve capacity, min: 66
Pros
  • Provides optimal starting power even in the worst conditions
  • Dual-purpose/deep cycle battery
  • Withstand vibrations
  • Fast charge
  • Spillproof
  • Maintenance-free
Cons
  • May last about 2.5 years

Duralast Gold Battery 51R-DLG

Duralast Gold Battery 51R-DLG

Duralast batteries by AutoZone are a major contender among automobile battery brands since they are reasonably priced while also being extremely durable and powerful.

To tell the truth, the 51R-DLG has exceeded my expectations! First, with 500 cold-cranking amps, the battery never gives me any trouble getting my car started, even in cold weather. Another crucial feature that determines battery efficiency is its reserve capacity, which the 51R-DLG excels at roughly 85 minutes. In addition, manufacturers claim that the battery can store a significant amount of charge through several repeated charge/discharge cycles. Next, 51R-DLG is vibration-resistant due to its durable polypropylene frame. Such a construction reduces damage and prolongs the battery life.

If you’re seeking a great battery for the 2014 Honda CR-V, take a closer look at the Duralast Gold battery 51R-DLG – it delivers superpower for good money.

Key specs
  • Group battery: 51R
  • Battery type: Starting
  • CCA: 400
  • Reserve capacity, min: 45
Pros
  • Starting type – less self-discharge
  • Delivers peak power necessary for a startup
  • Sturdy construction
  • Lightweight – easy to handle
Cons
  • No handle, making it difficult to lower the battery.

Group 35 battery for Honda CR-V

Optima Batteries 8040-218

Optima Batteries 8040-218

The Optima 8040-218 is a top-performing battery that can supply power for all types of vehicles.

The dual-purpose/deep-cycle design provides high performance, especially when used in engines with heavy electrical demands like alarms and stereos. I notice that the voltage doesn’t drop or change a lot when my subwoofers play.

The battery offers superior starting power, making it a top choice for luxury cars, trucks, and SUVs. Also, a cold cranking amp rate of 650 makes a huge difference when I start my car in the cold mornings – I can actually hear this difference! The regular batteries would lose power due to colder temperatures, but not Optima 8040-218!

Finally, this power source features a durable plastic exterior that enables it to withstand vibrations, allowing it to have an extended service life.

Optima 8040-218 is a great Honda CR-V car battery, but not only that! It fits almost any vehicle, from a luxurious automobile to seasonal transport. So, if you need a battery with superior power, low self-discharge rate, and long service life, 8040-218 may be the right pick for you!

Key specs
  • Group battery: 35
  • Battery type: Dual purpose/deep cycle
  • CCA: 620
  • Reserve capacity, min: 98
Pros
  • Long battery life – up to 8 years
  • Stands up a heavy usage
  • Compact design
  • Comes with a handle on the top
Cons
  • Expensive

Duralast Gold Battery 35-DLG

Duralast Gold Battery 35-DLG

The 35-DLG is a high-quality Honda CR-V battery replacement; however, the 35 Group fits many car and truck models. So, you can use it as the perfect option for manufacturers such as Chrysler, Nissan, or Jeep.

This battery provides 640 cold-cranking amps, giving your engine the power to start quickly all year round at any temperature. Furthermore, it is engineered to handle high electrical demand for the vehicle without draining power quickly.

35-DLG has superior vibration resistance for enhanced durability during bumpy rides on low-quality roads where other batteries are likely to fail over time due to excessive movement.

The Duralast Gold Battery 35-DLG is a pretty affordable power source with many high-quality features; you can rely on it to start the car each time, even when it is freezing cold outside.

Key specs
  • Group battery: 35
  • Battery type: Starting
  • CCA: 640
  • Reserve capacity, min: 130
Pros
  • Easy and quick start up
  • Premium-quality vent caps for safe functioning
  • Easy installation
  • Comes fully charged right out of the box
Cons
  • In rare cases, some users have issues with the battery spilling or leaking during installation.

FAQs

How long should a Honda CR-V battery last?

Honda CR-V battery replacement

The life of any car battery can vary depending on weather and climate conditions, vehicle model year, driving habits, and many other factors. Anyway, when buying batteries for your Honda CR-V, do keep in mind that most manufacturers recommend replacing the battery every five years.

How to extend Honda CR-V battery life?

Here are steps you can take to preserve the life of your top Honda CR-V batteries:

  • Keep your car away from extreme swings in temperature
  • Keep the battery well attached – the vibrations can loosen the connections and rattle your battery’s parts
  • Do not allow the battery to go unused for a long time
  • Turn off the lights, stereo, and other electrical gear when not in use.
  • It’s better to turn the car off when stopping for more than a minute
  • Clean the ports and terminals with the proper cleaning solution and a wire brush.

When does your Honda CR-V battery need to be replaced?

A dead battery is one of the most common automobile issues. We’ve all been there: you left your lights on, didn’t completely close a door, or left the radio on for too long without the motor working. But when should you change the battery? Here are a few signs that your power source needs to be inspected or replaced by a Honda expert:

  • Low battery fluid level
  • Fluid leaks and corrosion build-up
  • It takes longer to start up the car
  • If the engine light often turns on, it means the battery is losing charge.

Is it safe to drive with the battery light on?

Yes, it is safe to drive with the battery light on. Some cars have a reserve mode, and you can still drive even when the battery warning light comes on. Most automobiles will allow you to drive up to 1000 miles in this mode; however, make sure to turn off the radio, air conditioner, and other accessories, so the battery doesn’t drain.

Remember that the headlights may not turn off in the reserve mode, and the vehicle uses more fuel than usual. Also, if the battery is failing, it would be difficult for your car to reach 1000 miles before running out of gas.

How to replace the battery on the Honda CR-V?

Here are steps to change the power source on your Honda CR-V:

  1. To start the replacement process, open the hood of your vehicle. Locate your battery near the front driver side wheelhouse. Make sure it’s actually your battery that requires replacing by taking a digital multimeter and checking it for any power.
  2. Take out all of the negative cables from the terminals on your old battery, then connect them to their respective posts on your new one. Clip off any excess wire with a pair of pliers or cutters so there is no chance of shorting.
  3. Take out all of the positive cables from the terminals on your old battery, then connect them to their respective posts on your new one with a digital multimeter.

Note: be sure to check the direction of your battery posts, as a new battery needs to be placed in the right way! This information should be printed on top of one or both terminals and/or written somewhere on your old battery.

After changing the battery, you need to recharge it for about 12 hours. Afterward, your Honda CR-V should be ready to go!

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