Best Battery for Toyota RAV4 Reviews

What is the best battery for a Toyota RAV4? This question is one that many car owners have asked themselves. However, there are so many different brands and models of batteries that it can be hard to know which one will work for your vehicle.

In this review, I’ll explain how to choose the right, supportive battery for your RAV4. And, of course, we’ll take a look at some of the top options available on the market today.

How to choose a battery for Toyota RAV4?

Toyota RAV4 is a great crossover SUV that requires a high-quality battery to perform properly. And when it’s time to replace the battery, you should understand what type and group size to choose. To make the right decision, check out the factors mentioned below:

What type and size battery does a Toyota RAV4 use?

Toyota RAV4, including the latest models of 2020 and 2021, typically runs on group 35 batteries. However, before buying the replacement, do check the battery size!

How to determine battery group size on Toyota RAV4?

Follow these steps to find out your Toyota RAV4 battery size:

• The first place to check for the battery group size is in the manufacturer’s specifications in your Owner’s handbook – it’s indicated by a combination of letters and/or numbers.
• Take a close look at your current battery. If it’s an original one, the group size should be printed on the label. Other useful information, such as reserve charge and CCA, can also be found there.
• The simplest way is to consult a professional whose job it is to keep your auto in good working order.

Starting battery vs deep cycle: what’s the difference?

You’ve definitely heard the terms “Starting battery” and “Deep-cycle battery.” But what’s the difference between them? And which one is suitable for your car? You should learn the details before buying a battery replacement for your Toyota RAV4.

Starting or SLI battery – this type provides temporary power to the engine – it’s only used when you start your vehicle. Once the engine runs for 30 seconds, the alternator will take over and draw power from the car’s electrical system. As a result, a starting battery can perform for several years without any issues.

Deep-cycle battery – as the name implies, this type can be utilized to the very end of its charge. It can handle repeated charge and discharge cycles without degrading too quickly. A deep-cycle battery is a perfect choice for those who have electric boats, golf carts, or solar applications.

Best Deep Cycle Battery for Toyota RAV4 Review

Optima Batteries 8040-218

Optima is a well-known manufacturer of high-performance yet affordable batteries.

For Toyota RAV4 owners, the 8040-218 model is a top contender for providing both performance and durability. This particular battery stands out due to its strong cranking amp rate of 650 and long engine life under extreme heat or cold, enabling you to power through even the toughest downpours or long stretches of ice.

Next, 8040-218 offers a high reserve capacity (98 minutes) for starting engines in remote locations, which means you won’t be stranded after an unexpected breakdown.

To top it off, with fifteen times more resistance to vibration, 8040-218 can withstand heavy use and sudden jarring movements. That’s why this battery has a longer lifespan than many other models on the market. What’s not to love?

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Best Starting Battery for Toyota RAV4 Reviews

Optima Batteries 8020-164 – best starting battery

The 8020-164 model is another great Toyota RAV4 battery from Optima. It’s designed with AGM technology, which allows it to keep the battery electrolytes in place, making it leak-proof. Keep in mind that leaking batteries quickly run out; besides, they may damage your car.

Optima 8020-164 features a higher rate of cold cranking amps than its rivals, e.g., Duralast Gold Battery 35 DL. So, you can rest assured knowing that your car will start instantly with a powerful burst in any weather conditions. It’s vital if you live in a region with fierce winters.

This Red Top battery can boast a heavy-duty plastic construction and higher vibration resistance, prolonging its shelf life. You’ll also appreciate 90 minutes of reserve capacity in case you need to reach your mechanic fast.

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Duralast 35 DL

Duralast Gold battery 35 DL is compatible with Toyota RAV 4 and works amazingly in it. When it comes to starting power and durability, this is one of the top batteries in its class.

It features a reliable cranking power of 550, which gives a car or truck consistently strong starts at any temperature. Next, the battery is designed to accommodate the vehicle’s high electrical demand without rapidly draining the energy.

But the thing that has really impressed me is its reserve capacity of 130 minutes. It’s much more than even high-end competitors can offer! For instance, Optima 8020-164 delivers 90 minutes of reserve capacity.

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Toyota RAV4 battery buying guide

Does CCA (cold cranking amps) really matter?

It all depends! Of course, cold cranking amps (CCA) are an essential factor when it comes to choosing a car battery for your RAV or any other vehicle with a similar size engine.

A higher CCA rating will provide enough ignition power to quickly start the car in colder climates and during those long winter nights when temperatures drop below freezing.

On the other hand, the higher the CCA rating, the more expensive a battery is. But not all automobiles require high-cranking-power equipment! For example, if your car isn’t frequently exposed to sub-zero conditions, there’s no need for a battery with additional CCAs.

What is an AGM design for batteries?

An AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery is engineered for producing stronger bursts of starting amps and helping electronics run longer. In addition, the AGM design holds electrolytes in a fiberglass-type material so that the battery can be mounted in many positions with no spills or leaks.

Such a battery is sealed and requires no water to be added, making it very convenient when it’s difficult or impossible to check the electrolyte level. Furthermore, an AGM battery offers reduced gas emissions during charging, a low self-discharge rate, and longer service life.

All these features give AGM batteries unbeatable advantages if compared to conventional wet-cell or flooded batteries. For instance, a standard battery must be kept upright at all times since it uses gravity to return electrolytes to the plates. Besides, you have to fill a conventional battery with distilled water, or it’ll lose its charge if left sitting for too long. Conversely, AGM batteries can remain idle without a loss of power or charging capability. Finally, it boasts durable construction and can sustain more shock than a standard battery.

FAQs

When does your Toyota RAV4 battery need to be replaced?

One of the most prevalent car problems is a dead battery. We’ve all done it: didn’t completely close the door, left the lights on, or left the radio on without the engine operating for too long. When should you replace the battery, though? Here are some indicators that your battery should be inspected and probably changed:

• The vehicle is slow to crank, especially on cold days
• Electronics work, but the auto doesn’t start
• Dim headlights despite the battery being fully charged
• Massive rust is visible on the battery wires and connectors
• The battery level of fluid is low
• The fluid leaks
• You can hear a clicking sound when starting the car
• You’re noticing a general decrease in performance.

How long should a Toyota RAV4 battery last?

Toyota RAV 4 batteries usually last between 3 and 5 years. However, factors like the battery type, climate and weather conditions, driving patterns, car model year, etc., significantly influence the shelf life of your power source.

If you’re wondering how to prolong the battery life, here’s what you should do:

• Keep your vehicle away from excessive temperature changes
• Vibrations can loosen connections and rattle your battery’s parts, so keep it well attached
• When not in use, turn off the audio, lights, and other electrical equipment
• When you stop for more than 30 seconds, turn the car off
• Clean the terminals and posts of rust with a brush and right cleanser

Is it safe to drive with the battery light on?

It’s not advisable to drive with the battery light on because it could signal a problem with your car. It happens when the auto tries to charge the battery but can’t because of a lack of power. The battery light could also come on if you have a loose or corroded connection, a large enough series of load disconnects, or an open circuit in the electrical wiring. These are all problems that require attention from a qualified technician. So, it would be better to pull over and call a tow truck.

However, many automobiles have a reserve mode that allows you to continue driving even if the battery warning light illuminates. Most cars will let you drive up to 1000 miles in this mode, but be sure to turn off the stereo, air conditioner, and other equipment to avoid draining the battery.

How to replace the battery on the Toyota RAV4?

Changing some types of batteries, especially in newer models, might be difficult due to the shrinking hood area to increase the car’s performance. As a result, some batteries can be tricky to get to. So, the first step you should take is to read the owner’s manual and learn where the battery is placed in your Toyota RAV4.

Here’s general information on how to replace the battery:

1. Remove the old battery. Make sure not to touch any of the liquids inside it – they contain sulfuric acid, which can cause burns
2. Remove brackets and hoses that are attached to the battery
3. Clean off any corrosion on the terminals
4. Locate the new battery where it’s supposed to be
5. Attach the negative cable to its terminal
6. Attach the positive cable to its terminal
7. Tighten the connections by hand first followed by tightening them with an adjustable wrench
8. Repeat the process for the other battery terminal

As you can see, it is not very difficult to replace your car’s battery as long as you have a little knowledge about how things work under the hood.