While we might often take it for granted and pay little thought to the numerous benefits it provides, a car battery is an integral part of any automobile. Although it is typically hidden from view under the bonnet, having a working car battery can mean the difference from being able to get from A to B or being stranded with few options. Because of this, ensuring that your car battery is in full working order is of paramount importance to any motorist.

If you have had trouble starting your car, your headlights have seemed weaker than usual or your dashboard lights have been flickering, then it may be time for you to replace your car battery. However, not only is having a working battery essential for your vehicle – choosing the correct type of battery is, too. Recent years have seen an increase in more demanding electronic features as well as a steep rise in the prevalence of start-stop engines. Because of this, you may have come across “EFB” batteries or “AGM” batteries.

What is an EFB Battery?

“EFB” stands for an “Enhanced Flooded Battery”. When compared to a traditional lead acid battery, an EFB provides improved charge acceptance as well as greater cyclic durability. Because of this, an EFB will typically last up to 6 years as opposed to 3-5 years for a traditional lead acid battery. Moreover, an EFB can better handle harsh or unpredictable weather and will provide up to 270,000 engine starts. You will usually find them fitted to entry-level start-stop vehicles or for modern smaller to middle class cars with enhanced electronic or technological requirements.

If your car is already fitted with an EFB battery, it is advised that you do not replace it with a traditional flooded battery. This is because EFB and AGM batteries are monitored by a battery sensor which is closely linked with the battery management system (BMS). If an unsuitable battery is fitted, your vehicle may face problems with its automatic start-stop system, fail to power its comfort functions and suffer a reduced battery lifespan. It is for these reasons that you should replace it with either another EFB battery, or upgrade to an AGM battery.

What is an AGM Battery?

The “AGM” in AGM batteries stands for “Absorbent Glass Mat”. They are leak-proof and maintenance free, thanks to their unique structure which makes them superior to traditional flooded batteries and EFB batteries. Providing as many as 360,000 engine starts, AGM batteries are highly reliable and can handle harsh weather conditions much better than other batteries. They typically come with longer warranty periods and can last from up to 5-8 years, giving them the longest possible service life. You will find AGM batteries are fitted to start-stop vehicles with high electrical demands and middle to upper class vehicles with higher brake energy recovery needs.

If your vehicle is already fitted with an AGM battery, then it is essential that you only replace it with another AGM battery – not an EFB or traditional flooded battery. This is for the same reasons mentioned above regarding EFB batteries, but downgrading from an AGM will cause more pronounced issues.

When Should I Upgrade from an EFB to an AGM?

One important factor to consider when choosing a replacement battery for your vehicle is the cost of the battery itself. While AGM batteries are the best performers, they also come with the highest upfront cost. However, due to their longer warranties, high performance and above all else their longer service life, an AGM battery will typically be the most economical option in the long run. An EFB battery will come with a cheaper upfront price but may end up costing you more in the long run due to its shorter service life and inferior reliability when compared to an AGM battery.

If you have added any extra features, equipment or appliances to your vehicle which add a greater level of demand to your car battery, we would advise you to consider upgrading to an AGM battery. Similarly, if you usually drive short distances in which your battery is unable to sufficiently recharge such as in an urban environment or your battery is only used seasonally and needs to be recharged, we recommend that you fit an AGM battery to your vehicle for the best results.

Are you currently looking for an EFB battery? If so, click here. Alternatively, click here to view our range of AGM batteries.