Best Car Battery for Hino – Top Picks for Every Model

Hino trucks work hard. Whether you’re running a Hino 300 for city delivery, a Hino 500 for regional haul, or a Hino 700 pulling heavy freight, the battery is mission-critical: no crank = no revenue. The right battery also keeps telematics, liftgates, A/C sleepers, and safety systems alive when the engine’s off. This guide walks you through the best battery tech (Flooded vs EFB vs AGM), recommended sizes for common Hino duty classes, what specs actually matter (CCA, RC, vibration resistance), and how to replace and maintain your battery so it lasts. You’ll also see direct buying paths, like Group 31 AGM truck batteries, H8/Group 49 AGM, and Group 27F heavy-duty batteries so you can compare price, capacity, and warranty without guessing.

Table of Contents

• Quick Picks for Hino Owners (By Use Case)
• Top Battery Types for Hino (What to Choose & Why)
• Hino Model-Specific Buying Tips
• Hino Battery Fitment Cheat Sheet (Most-Common Sizes)
• Spec Targets: CCA, RC, and Warranty
• Best Car Battery Brands for Hino & Where-to-Buy
• Hino Truck Battery Installation Guide (DIY or Shop)
• Hino Battery Maintenance & Longevity
• Signs You Need a New Battery
• Contact Hino Customer Service & Support

Quick Picks for Hino Owners (By Use Case)

• Local delivery / city route (Hino 300 / Dutro style light-duty): High-quality Flooded or Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) with solid Reserve Capacity. These trucks see tons of starts per day, so you want strong cycle life, not just big CCA. Check Group 27F EFB truck batteries. ~$160–$260 per battery
• Stop/start urban fleet with idle reduction or hotel loads: AGM is the smart move. It handles deep cycling from running liftgates, in-cab electronics, dash cams, and telematics while stopped. See Group 31 AGM commercial batteries. ~$230–$380 each
• Regional haul / Hino 500: Vibration-resistant AGM or premium Flooded Group 31 with high Reserve Capacity (RC >180 min). More RC = longer time running hazards, lights, and HVAC at docks without killing the battery. Look at heavy-duty Group 31 truck batteries. ~$200–$320
• Long-haul / sleeper cab (Hino 700 / Profia style tractors): Dual or triple AGM Group 31 packs are common. You’re powering fridge, bunk HVAC, inverters, and telemetry overnight. Don’t cheap out here. Browse deep-cycle Group 31 AGM. ~$250–$400 each
• Extreme heat (desert, port work, constant A/C): EFB or AGM beats basic Flooded because plates are reinforced and electrolyte loss is lower. Prioritize batteries advertised as “heat resistant” or “commercial duty.” High-temp AGM truck batteries.
• Cold starts in winter yards: You want very high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). Look for Group 31 AGM with 950+ CCA per battery. High-CCA Group 31 AGM. Good for sub-freezing mornings
• Backup/spare battery for roadside swap: Keep a charged, sealed AGM Group 31 in the shop or service van. Sealed = less spill risk. Especially helpful if you run a small fleet of Hino 300/500 delivery trucks.

Top Battery Types for Hino (What to Choose & Why)

Hino Model-Specific Buying Tips

• Hino 300 (a.k.a. Dutro / light-duty cab-over): These trucks often run single-battery setups. You want a commercial-rated Flooded or EFB with decent RC (~140+ min) because of frequent stop/starts and PTO/liftgate use. Expect ~$160–$240 for a solid EFB. You can browse 27F / 31 commercial EFB batteries.
• Hino 500 (medium-duty / regional haul): Most fleets use dual Group 31 batteries in parallel. Prioritize vibration resistance because these trucks see mixed highway + rough loading docks. AGM Group 31 with 900–1000+ CCA and RC >180 min is ideal. Budget ~$240–$320 each. See 1000+ CCA Group 31.
• Hino 700 / Profia / heavy tractor: Long-haul and overnight idling is brutal. You’re basically using the batteries like hotel power. Choose deep-cycle AGM Group 31 “dual purpose” batteries. Yes, they cost more (~$300–$400 each), but they tolerate repeated deep discharge without dying in 6 months. Try dual-purpose Group 31 AGM.
• Hino hybrid / idle-reduction packages: If your truck uses start-stop or anti-idle systems (battery keeps A/C running while engine shuts off), you must stick with AGM or EFB cycle-rated batteries. A normal flooded “starter” battery will cook itself quickly and can even void warranty claims on idle-reduction equipment.
• Cold storage / reefer box duty: If you run electric pallet jacks, interior cargo lighting, backup cameras, etc., spec batteries with high Reserve Capacity (RC) instead of just chasing huge CCA. RC keeps accessories alive with the engine off so you don’t have to jump the truck when you’re ready to leave the dock.
• Fleet tip: Standardize on one Group (usually Group 31 for medium/heavy Hino). This lets you swap batteries between trucks in an emergency and bulk-purchase replacements for better pricing.

Hino Battery Fitment Cheat Sheet (Most-Common Sizes)

Spec Targets: CCA, RC, and Warranty

CCA: Cold Cranking Amps
RC: Reserve Capacity
Tech: Flooded / EFB / AGM

• CCA (Cold Cranking Amps): Aim to meet or exceed factory spec. For diesel Hino engines, especially inline-4/inline-6 medium-duty diesels, more CCA = faster starts under load. In cold climates, look for +50 to +100 CCA above OE.
• RC (Reserve Capacity): RC = how long the battery can run electronics with the engine off. If you sit at docks with hazards, refrigeration blowers, dash cam, and work lights on, RC matters more than CCA. Anything >180 minutes per battery is strong for Group 31.
• Technology (Flooded vs EFB vs AGM): If the truck shipped with EFB or AGM, do not downgrade. Downgrading creates voltage dips, leading to flickering screens, ABS/ESC lights, DPF regen issues, and premature battery failure.
• Warranty: For commercial truck use, look for at least 24-month free replacement or a clearly stated pro-rated schedule. Long-haul sleepers that deep-cycle nightly may not hit the full “years promised” unless you buy deep-cycle rated AGM.
• Vibration rating: Hino frames transmit a lot of chassis vibration, especially cab-over models with stiffer suspensions. AGM and commercial-grade Flooded batteries usually advertise vibration resistance. This is not marketing fluff — vibration is what literally shakes plates apart.
• Terminal orientation / post style: Group 31 truck batteries often use threaded stud terminals instead of standard automotive posts. Match what’s on your cables, or you’ll be stuck improvising adapters in the yard.

Best Car Battery Brands for Hino & Where-to-Buy

• Buy online (Amazon): Fast to compare specs (CCA, RC, warranty) and read reviews from other commercial users. Start with Hino-compatible truck batteries.
• Local heavy-truck parts house: Advantage = immediate swap, core return, load test, and you can match stud/post style correctly on the spot. Downtime costs more than slightly higher local price.
• Dealer network / OEM channel: You’ll pay more, but you get batteries that match Hino’s charging profile and bracket sizing exactly. This matters on newer emissions-era trucks that monitor voltage tightly.

How to Check Freshness & Authenticity

• Date code: Every battery has a build date stamped or stickered. Don’t buy anything older than ~3–6 months for commercial service unless it’s been on a maintainer.
• Brand labeling / QR: Many serious commercial batteries now ship with tamper labels or serial QR codes. If it looks like a generic sticker slapped on a plain black case, walk away.
• Weight check: Heavier (within the same Group size) often means thicker lead plates = better durability. If two “Group 31 AGM” batteries feel wildly different in weight, the featherweight one is usually the corner-cutter.
• Terminal condition: New batteries should not have scratches, wrench marks, or dried acid staining near posts. That’s a sign it’s been installed/returned.
• Voltage on delivery: A fully charged AGM at rest should typically read around 12.7–12.9V. Anything already down in the low 12.4V range is either older stock or poorly maintained in storage.

Car Battery Warranty Tips

• Free replacement vs pro-rated: A “36-month warranty” might actually be 12 months full replacement + 24 months pro-rated. Read the fine print.
• Commercial-use clause: Some warranties quietly drop from 36 months to 12 or 18 months when used in fleet/commercial trucks. Ask explicitly “Is this warranty valid for commercial use?”
• Keep receipts by VIN/unit #: Track which truck got which battery and when. Fleet managers should label install date on the case with paint marker.
• Charging system check: Many suppliers will deny warranty if your alternator/voltage regulator is overcharging or undercharging. Have the charging system tested when you buy/install.
• Core return: Bring the old battery back in the same purchase cycle to avoid core fees. This can save $20–$40 per battery depending on region.

Hino Truck Battery Installation Guide (DIY or Shop)

1. Safety first: Park on level ground, set parking brake, chock wheels. Shut down engine, turn off accessories, remove keys. Wear gloves and eye protection — commercial diesel batteries are heavy and can spark.
2. Locate the battery bank: On many Hino trucks, batteries sit in an external side box or under the cab step. Open the cover and inspect for corrosion, loose straps, or cracked trays.
3. Document the wiring: Take a clear photo of cable routing and any jumpers (especially if you have dual Group 31s in parallel). Mixing up positive/negative links can fry ECUs, telematics units, or DEF heaters instantly.
4. Disconnect negative (-) first: Loosen and remove the ground cable(s) to break the circuit. Then remove the positive (+). This reduces the risk of accidental shorting with a wrench.
5. Remove hold-downs and lift batteries out: Group 31s are ~55–75+ lbs each. Use proper lifting form or a helper. Do not tip AGM batteries by the terminals — lift from the case handles if provided.
6. Clean the tray and cables: Scrape rust, wipe out road salt, and neutralize any acid with a baking soda/water mix. Replace cracked hold-down hardware. Poor retention = vibration = early battery death.
7. Drop in the new battery/batteries: Match orientation so positive/negative posts line up exactly like before. Tighten hold-downs snugly but don’t crush the case.
8. Reconnect positive (+) first, then negative (-): Tight, clean, and secure. Loose terminals cause voltage dips, heat, and random dash warnings (ABS light, Check Engine lamp, DPF regen interrupt, etc.).
9. Test start and charging voltage: Fire up the truck and measure across the terminals with a multimeter. Most commercial diesel charging systems should sit roughly in the 13.8–14.5V range while running. If you’re way outside that, address alternator/regulator issues immediately or you’ll cook the brand-new batteries.
10. Label the install date: Paint marker on the top: “10/2025 – Truck #12.” This is gold for fleet PM planning.

Hino Battery Maintenance & Longevity

• Visual inspection weekly: Look for swollen cases, leaks, cracked trays, or cables rubbing on metal edges. Catch it before it becomes a roadside no-start at 4am.
• Keep terminals tight and clean: Corrosion = resistance = heat = voltage drop. A tiny bit of dielectric grease on cleaned terminals helps slow corrosion.
• Avoid deep discharging starting batteries: If you’re running work lights, liftgate motors, inverters, or sleeper HVAC with the engine off for long periods, you should be using deep-cycle AGM, not basic starting batteries.
• Monitor voltage: Anything consistently below ~12.4V at rest is telling you: alternator isn’t keeping up, parasitic draw is high, or the battery is getting weak.
• Idle-reduction systems: Trucks specced to auto-shutoff at idle rely heavily on battery capacity. If those batteries are tired, idle-stop features will disable themselves and you’ll burn more diesel idling manually.
• Rotate spares into service: If you keep spare charged AGMs in the shop, top them off with a smart charger every few weeks. Letting a spare sit dead ruins it before it ever hits a truck.

Signs You Need a New Battery

• Slow crank on cold start, especially noticeable on first start of the day.
• Dash voltage warnings, ABS/ESC lights, or random ECU communication faults that disappear after revving the engine (classic low-voltage behavior).
• Interior/dash lights dim hard when liftgate or PTO is engaged.
• Sulfur/rotten-egg smell near the battery box (overcharge or internal failure).
• Visible swelling/bulging of the battery case.
• More than ~3 years in high-vibration commercial service for Flooded / ~4–5 years for quality AGM is already “old.”

Contact Hino Customer Service & Support

• Hino Dealer / Service Center: Your local Hino dealer can confirm the exact original battery group and spec for your VIN or chassis code. They can also test alternator output and parasitic draw, which is huge if you’re killing batteries every 6–9 months. Use the official Hino Dealer Locator (or your regional Hino site) to find an authorized service center.
• Roadside Assist / Fleet Support: Many regional Hino distributors offer 24/7 roadside or mobile tech support for dead batteries on delivery routes. Keep that number in the glovebox — it’s faster than calling a random tow. In North America, details are listed on the HinoWatch Roadside Assistance page; other regions have similar programs via their local Hino websites.
• Owner’s / Workshop Manual: Your Hino service/maintenance manual lists the OE CCA spec and wiring layout for multi-battery setups. If you don’t have the hard copy, a Hino dealer can usually provide PDF access or order you a replacement manual. Start from the Hino Resources / owner support pages or ask your dealer directly. Always match OE wiring layout when running multiple Group 31 batteries in parallel.
• Battery core recycling: Ask your dealer or fleet maintenance provider about proper disposal. Most suppliers credit you for returning the old batteries as “cores,” which offsets the cost of the new Group 31s. Many Hino dealers list recycling information under their service or parts pages, which you can locate via the dealer locator.
• Locate parts online: If you’re managing your own fleet, bookmark searches like Hino truck batteries on Amazon and Group 31 AGM commercial batteries so the parts manager can reorder fast.

Hino Car Battery FAQs

Do I need a heavy-duty commercial battery for my Hino truck?
Hino trucks draw more power than typical passenger vehicles, especially if you run liftgates, refrigeration, auxiliary lighting, or telematics. A heavy-duty commercial battery with high reserve capacity and high cold cranking amps (CCA) is strongly recommended. Standard passenger-car batteries usually can’t handle the load or vibration levels found in medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks.

Can I replace one battery at a time if my Hino uses a dual-battery setup?
It’s best practice to replace both at the same time. Mixing an older weak battery with a new strong one will drag down the new battery, can cause uneven charging, and may shorten the life of both. Hino fleets commonly run matched pairs for this reason.

What’s the difference between Flooded, EFB, and AGM for Hino?
Flooded (traditional lead-acid) batteries are cheaper and common in basic configurations. EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) and AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries offer better vibration resistance, deeper cycling, and faster recharge—useful for trucks with frequent stop/start routes, idle-reduction systems, or power-hungry accessories. AGM is usually the premium choice for reliability in high-demand duty cycles.

Do I need to register or program a new battery in a Hino?
On many older mechanical or simpler electrical systems, no. You disconnect the old batteries, install the new ones, and you’re done. On newer electronically managed charging systems and newer emissions-era trucks, you may need to clear fault codes or confirm proper charging voltage with a diagnostic tool. It’s good practice to check system voltage and alternator output after installation.

How long should a Hino car battery last?
In real commercial use, expect around 2–4 years. High idle time, short delivery routes with constant electrical loads, extreme heat, and vibration can wear batteries faster. Long-haul highway duty with steady alternator charging can stretch life toward the high end of that range. If you’re seeing weak starts or voltage drop under load at year two, plan proactively instead of waiting for a roadside no-start.

How much is a Hino car battery?
For a single heavy-duty Group 31 style commercial battery, typical pricing is about $140–$300+ USD depending on capacity, CCA, and whether it’s Flooded, EFB, or AGM. Many Hino trucks run two batteries in parallel, so total replacement cost can land in the $280–$600 USD range for a full matched set.

Bottom line: For most Hino trucks, the safest play is a commercial-rated Group 31 battery (or two) with high CCA, high RC, and serious vibration resistance — ideally AGM if you run accessories with the engine off. Don’t downgrade from AGM/EFB to a cheaper flooded starting battery, measure your tray and terminal orientation before ordering, and label install dates. A reliable Hino is basically a reliable 12V system. Lose the battery, lose the truck.