From EDSA gridlock to blazing summer heat, monsoon floods, and corrugated provincial roads, Philippine driving is rough on batteries. This guide shows you what to buy, how to size it, typical prices (PHP), and where to buy—with quick comparisons for AGM choices, EFB start-stop batteries, and upkeep tools like a smart charger/maintainer.

Table of Contents

Quick Picks (By Use Case)

  • Metro Manila daily commuter (no idle-stop/start): Quality SMF/Flooded 35–45Ah depending on alternator output. Compare 35Ah hatchback options and 45–50Ah sedan picks. ~₱4,500–₱10,500
  • Vehicles with idle-stop/start (many newer crossovers): Choose EFB (value) or AGM (premium). Browse EFB selections or AGM upgrades. ~₱8,500–₱25,000
  • Diesel SUVs / provincial climbs (high CCA): 65–80Ah with strong CCA for cold starts on highland trips. See high-CCA candidates. ~₱10,000–₱20,000
  • Overlanding / camping (aux loads): AGM starting battery or dual system (starter + deep-cycle). Shortlist 12V AGM deep-cycle and a DC-DC charger.
  • Short-trip city use (low mileage): Prefer EFB/AGM; keep topped with a smart maintainer to avoid sulfation.
  • Audio/performance builds: AGM with higher RC/Ah and stable voltage. Check high-reserve AGM.

Car Battery Types in Philippines Comparison

Type Best For Pros Cons Indicative Price (PHP) Notes / Helpful Links
Flooded Lead-Acid (Conventional) Older models, tight budgets Lowest price, easy to source Periodic top-ups, vents gas ₱3,800–₱7,500 Carry hydrometer & distilled water
SMF / Maintenance-Free Most modern petrol cars Sealed, low upkeep Higher price than flooded ₱5,000–₱11,000 Good all-round pick; compare 45–50Ah SMF
EFB (Enhanced Flooded) Idle-stop/start vehicles High cycle life, frequent restarts Pricier than SMF ₱8,500–₱16,000 Required for start-stop; see start-stop batteries
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Premium/high-load cars & SUVs High CCA, vibration-resistant Premium price; charger-sensitive ₱12,000–₱28,000+ Shortlist 70–80Ah AGM for diesel SUVs
Gel / Specialty Aux/backup systems Spill-proof, deep-cycle capable Not ideal for cranking ₱10,000–₱20,000 Pair with smart 12V charger

Car Battery Size & Fitment Size Philippines

Always match capacity (Ah), CCA, case size, and terminal orientation (L/R) to your vehicle’s OEM spec. If unsure, search by make + model + engine + year or use a brand fitment finder.
Common Code Approx. Capacity Polarity Typical Fitment (PH Models)
NS40 / 34B19L/R (≈35Ah) 32–36Ah, ~300 CCA L or R Toyota Wigo, Mitsubishi Mirage, small hatchbacks
46B24L/R (≈45Ah) 40–45Ah, ~360–420 CCA L or R Toyota Vios (gas), Honda City (gas), Nissan Almera
55D23L/R (≈60Ah) 50–65Ah, ~420–500 CCA L or R Toyota Innova (gas), Honda CR-V (older), Mitsubishi Xpander
65D26L/R (≈65–70Ah) 60–70Ah, ~500–650 CCA L or R Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Montero/Strada, Isuzu mu-X (diesel)
DIN60 / DIN70 (EFB/AGM) 60–80Ah, high CCA Varies Euro models with start-stop (VW, BMW, Mercedes)

Best Car Battery Brands in Philippines

  • Motolite: Homegrown leader with roadside delivery/install (“Express Hatid”). Lines from conventional to EFB/AGM. ~₱4,500–₱18,000. Compare Motolite listings.
  • GS Yuasa / Yuasa: Japanese pedigree; strong OEM fitments for JDM/ASEAN vehicles. ~₱5,000–₱20,000. Browse Yuasa options.
  • Panasonic: Reliable SMF/EFB for popular sedans/crossovers. ~₱5,500–₱16,000. See Panasonic batteries.
  • ACDelco: Good coverage for GM/Chevy and multi-brand replacements. ~₱5,000–₱15,000. Check ACDelco.
  • Amaron: Long-life reputation; selections from small cars to SUVs. ~₱5,500–₱18,000. Explore Amaron.

Where to Buy Car Battery in Philippines

For most motorists, the sweet spot is a nearby authorized dealer (fast testing, fitment, warranty stamping) or a national retailer/marketplace (transparent pricing, reviews). Many outlets offer home installation and old-battery exchange rebates. For quick comparisons, search car batteries on Amazon.
  • Motolite Express Hatid (Nationwide)
  • Mobile delivery & installation in major cities/provinces
  • Contact: Hotline via Motolite app/website
  • Hours: Often 24/7 in major metros
  • GS / Yuasa Authorized Dealers
  • Branches across NCR, CALABARZON, and key provincial hubs
  • Contact: Via official dealer locator
  • Hours: Vary by outlet
  • Panasonic Battery Dealers
  • Metro Manila and regional centers
  • Contact: Panasonic customer care / locator
  • Hours: Vary by outlet
  • ACDelco Philippines Partners
  • Authorized outlets in NCR, Cebu, Davao
  • Contact: Listed on distributor pages
  • Hours: Vary by outlet
  • Independent Battery Shops
  • Banawe (Quezon City), Talamban (Cebu), Ulas (Davao) clusters with multi-brand stock
  • Contact: Local directories / maps
  • Hours: Usually 09:00–18:00

Buying Car Battery in Philippines Guide and Tips

  • Match OEM spec: Confirm Ah, CCA, case size, and terminal layout; never downsize capacity.
  • Start-stop = EFB/AGM only: Using SMF/flooded on start-stop vehicles leads to early failure.
  • Fresh stock: Prefer manufacture date < 3 months; ask your installer to show the stamp.
  • Charging system test: Check alternator output and parasitic draw at installation to protect the warranty.
  • Flood readiness: After wading or flood exposure, have the electricals checked; corrosion accelerates battery loss.
  • Short-trip habit: Top up charge every 2–4 weeks with a smart maintainer.
  • Diesel & rough roads: Prioritize higher CCA and vibration-resistant construction (AGM) for SUVs/pickups.
  • Old-battery exchange: Trade in your core to save money and ensure proper recycling.
  • DIY safety: Wear eye/hand protection; remove negative first, connect positive first; secure hold-down.
  • BMS/IBS reset: Some Euro cars require battery registration after replacement—ask your shop.

Car Battery Philippines FAQs

How much does it typically cost to replace and install a car battery in Philippines?
Hatchbacks/sedans with SMF batteries usually cost ₱5,000–₱10,500 including basic fitment and old-battery exchange. Diesel SUVs or EFB/AGM units can run ₱12,000–₱25,000+. Compare live pricing here: current listings.

What’s the typical car battery warranty in Philippines?
Expect about 18–24 months free replacement on many SMF batteries, with total coverage up to 36–55 months including pro-rata. Premium EFB/AGM terms vary—check the warranty card.

How are car batteries recycled in Philippines?
Authorized dealers collect old units and route them to licensed recyclers; always use exchange programs rather than informal scrap channels.

How do I know my battery is failing?
Slow cranks, dim headlights at idle, start-stop disabled, warning light on the dash, or resting voltage <12.4V—request a load/CCA test.

Can I upgrade to a larger capacity?
Minor capacity bumps within the same case size are fine. Avoid oversizing beyond alternator output or tray/cable limits.

Ah vs CCA: which matters more?
Ah is energy storage/reserve; CCA is cold-cranking power. Diesels/high-load setups value CCA; light petrol commuters can balance Ah with cost/weight.

Bottom Line

Match your OEM size and technology first (SMF vs EFB/AGM), buy from authorized networks for smooth warranty support, and leverage old-battery exchange for savings and responsible disposal. For quick comparisons, scan AGM, EFB, and maintainers before you buy.
Best Car Battery in the Philippines: Top Brands & Where to Buy