Honda starters are famously reliable—until a tired battery triggers a Christmas tree of dash warnings. This guide focuses on which battery types fit Hondas best, model-by-model sizing, what specs actually matter (CCA, RC, BMS resets), and where to buy. When you’re ready to compare, jump to curated searches for AGM Group 35, 51R AGM, H5/Group 47 (AGM), and maintainer-ready smart chargers.
Table of Contents
- Quick Picks for Honda Owners (By Use Case)
- Top Battery Types for Hondas (What to Choose & Why)
- Honda Model-Specific Buying Tips
- Honda Battery Fitment Cheat Sheet (Most-Common Sizes)
- Spec Targets: CCA, RC, and Warranty
- Best Car Battery Brands for Honda & Where-to-Buy
- Honda Car Battery Installation Guide (DIY or Shop)
- Honda Car Battery Maintenance & Longevity
- Contact Honda Customer Service & Support
- Honda Car Battery FAQs
Quick Picks for Honda Owners (By Use Case)
- Daily driver (no auto start-stop): Quality Flooded/SMF or EFB with good RC. Compare Group 35 and Group 51R. ~$120–$220 (Flooded), $160–$260 (EFB)
- With idle-stop/start (Honda idle stop): EFB (good) or AGM (best). Do not downgrade. Browse EFB or AGM Group 35. ~$180–$350
- Electronics-heavy (Touring/Elite, short trips): AGM for higher charge acceptance and vibration resistance. See AGM best sellers. ~$200–$360
- Cold climate: Favor higher CCA. Shortlist high-CCA AGM.
- Hot climate / idling in traffic: Long RC and heat-tolerant construction (EFB/AGM). Compare EFB choices.
- Performance/audio builds: AGM with higher RC/Ah for voltage stability. Check high-reserve AGM.
MARXON Group 47 H5 L2 Start and Stop Car Battery 12v 60AH 660CCA AGM BCI47 Maintenance Free Automotive Replacement Batteries
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Weize Platinum AGM Battery BCI Group 47-12v 60ah H5 Size 47 Automotive Battery, 100RC, 680CCA, 36 Months Warranty, Dimensions 9.52" L x 6.89" W x 7.48" H
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UPLUS BCI Group 48 Car Battery, AGM-L70-M Maintenance Free 12V 70Ah Premium AGM Batteries H6 L3 Automotive Battery, 760CCA, 120RC
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Top Battery Types for Hondas (What to Choose & Why)
| Type | Best For | Pros | Watch Outs | Typical Price (USD) | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flooded / SMF (Maintenance-Free) | Older Hondas, base trims without idle-stop | Lowest cost, widely available | Lower cycle life; sensitive to deep discharges | $120–$220 | 51R • 35 |
| EFB (Enhanced Flooded) | Hondas with auto idle-stop | Better cycle life; built for frequent restarts | More expensive than SMF | $160–$280 | Browse EFB |
| AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) | Premium trims, accessory loads, cold climates | High CCA, vibration-resistant, fast charge acceptance | Highest price; use AGM-compatible charger | $200–$360 | AGM 35 • AGM 51R • AGM H5/47 |
Honda Model-Specific Buying Tips
- Civic (2006–2021, most trims): Commonly Group 51R (reversed terminals). Many owners upgrade to AGM 51R for stability on short trips. ~$150–$280. Compare 51R AGM choices.
- Civic (2022+, some markets): Depending on region/engine, may use 51R or H5 (Group 47). Check under-hood label or owner’s manual. H5/47 AGM.
- Accord (2008–2017): Typically Group 35. Touring/EX-L with heavier load benefit from AGM 35. ~$180–$320. See AGM 35.
- Accord (2018+): Many trims moved to H5/Group 47 or similar DIN size. For start-stop, use EFB/AGM only. Compare Group 47 AGM.
- CR-V (2007–2016): Often Group 35. Cold regions: pick higher CCA. Shop 35.
- CR-V (2017+): Many trims use H5/Group 47 (start-stop on some). Choose EFB or AGM. H5/47 AGM picks.
- HR-V: Usually 51R or H4/Group 46 depending on market/year. Verify polarity before purchase. Compare 51R choices.
- Pilot / Passport / Ridgeline: Commonly H6/Group 48 or H7/Group 94R on newer trims. For towing/electronics, go AGM. AGM 48 • AGM 94R.
- Odyssey (minivan): Heavier electrical demand. Many trims use H6/48 or H7/94R. AGM recommended for sliding doors and idle-stop variants. Compare H6/48 AGM.
- Hybrids (Accord Hybrid/CR-V Hybrid): 12-V auxiliary battery still matters. Follow OE tech (often AGM) and spec; don’t downsize. Aux AGM.
Honda Battery Fitment Cheat Sheet (Most-Common Sizes)
| Honda Model (typical years) | Common Group / DIN | Polarity Note | Helpful Links |
|---|---|---|---|
| Civic (’06–’21) | 51R (JIS) | Reversed terminals | Shop 51R AGM |
| Civic (’22+ select) | 51R or H5/47 | Check label under hood | H5/47 options |
| Accord (’08–’17) | 35 (BCI) | Standard orientation | AGM 35 |
| Accord (’18+) | H5/47 (many) | DIN case | Group 47 AGM |
| CR-V (’07–’16) | 35 | — | Shop 35 |
| CR-V (’17+) | H5/47 | Start-stop trims: EFB/AGM only | H5/47 AGM |
| HR-V | 51R or H4/46 (varies) | Verify polarity | 51R options |
| Pilot/Passport/Ridgeline | H6/48 or H7/94R | — | AGM 48 • AGM 94R |
| Odyssey | H6/48 or H7/94R | Power sliding doors = heavier load | Compare H6/48 AGM |
Spec Targets: CCA, RC, and Warranty
CCA: Cold Cranking Amps RC: Reserve Capacity Tech: Flooded / EFB / AGM
- CCA: Meet or exceed OE; cold climates benefit from +50–100 CCA above minimum.
- RC: More RC = better support for lights/HVAC/audio during idling and short trips.
- Technology: If OE was EFB/AGM (idle-stop trims), don’t downgrade.
- Warranty: Target 36+ months free replacement (or regional equivalent) and clear pro-rata terms.
- Polarity/hold-down: Hondas commonly use 51R (reversed). Confirm tray, clamp, and venting.
Best Car Battery Brands for Honda & Where-to-Buy
| Brand | Why It’s Good for Honda | Tech Options | Typical Price | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interstate / Clarios | Wide fitment coverage (51R/35/H5/H6/H7) | Flooded, EFB, AGM | $140–$330 | Interstate 51R |
| ACDelco | Solid warranties, good AGM line | Flooded, AGM | $150–$340 | ACDelco AGM 35 |
| Bosch | Strong DIN/H5 coverage for newer Hondas | Flooded, AGM | $160–$360 | Bosch H5 AGM |
| DieHard | Broad retail network, premium AGM | Flooded, AGM | $170–$360 | DieHard 51R AGM |
| Optima / Odyssey (premium) | High RC/CCA, performance builds | AGM | $250–$400 | Optima 35 |
- Amazon: Fast comparison, clear reviews, frequent promos. Check 51R, 35, H5/47, H6/48, H7/94R.
- Honda dealer: Correct spec and BMS/IBS reset support; pricier but seamless warranty handling.
- National parts retailers: Quick testing/installation; ask for free charging-system check and old-core rebate.
ACDelco Gold 48AGM (88864541) 36 Month Warranty AGM BCI Group 48 Battery
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ACDelco Gold 94RAGM (88864542) 36 Month Warranty AGM BCI Group 94R Battery
$178.98
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Red Top | 34 BCI Group Number | Automotive Engine | 12 Volt | 800 Cold Cranking Amps | SAE Type A Standard Post Top Terminal | Gel Electrolyte | 10 Inch Length | 6-7/8 Inch Width | 7-13/16 Inch Height
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Honda Car Battery Installation Guide (DIY or Shop)
- Prepare tools & parts: Correct replacement battery (group/tech/polarity), 10/12mm wrenches, terminal brush, gloves/eye protection, and an OBD-II memory saver if you want to keep presets.
- Park safely: Level surface, parking brake on, ignition OFF, keys out. Open hood and locate battery/hold-down.
- Connect memory saver (optional): Follow the tool’s instructions to maintain ECU/radio memory during the swap.
- Disconnect negative (–) first: Loosen the negative clamp and isolate the cable so it can’t spring back to the post.
- Disconnect positive (+): Remove the positive clamp and any sensor connectors carefully.
- Remove hold-down & battery: Undo the bracket/strap. Lift the battery straight up (it’s heavy—mind your back).
- Inspect & clean: Check the tray for corrosion/debris. Clean clamps with a brush; install felt anti-corrosion washers if desired.
- Place new battery: Match orientation and polarity (e.g., 51R = reversed terminals). Ensure it sits flat in the tray.
- Secure hold-down: Refit bracket/strap snugly—no movement. Over-tightening can crack the case; aim for firm, not brutal.
- Reconnect positive (+) first: Seat the clamp fully, then tighten. Repeat for any auxiliary sense leads.
- Reconnect negative (–): Fit and tighten the clamp. Verify both clamps are snug; twist-test by hand.
- Voltage & start check: Start the engine and measure charging voltage (target ~13.8–14.6V). Confirm no loose clamps or warning lights.
- BMS/IBS reset (if applicable): Many newer Hondas benefit from battery registration. Use a capable OBD-II scan tool or have a shop perform the reset.
- Finalize: Relearn window auto-up/down and clock if needed; take a short drive to restore idle-stop operation.
Honda Car Battery Maintenance & Longevity
- Short trips: Use a smart maintainer every 2–4 weeks.
- Clean terminals: Neutralize corrosion; install felt washers.
- Secure mounting: Vibration kills plates—ensure the hold-down is snug.
- Parasitic drains: Dash cams/USB adapters can drain parked cars; hard-wire with low-voltage cutoff.
- Correct charger profile: AGM needs AGM-safe charging; avoid “boost” modes on sealed batteries.
Signs You Need a New Battery
- Slow crank, dimming lights at idle, intermittent start-stop, or electrical glitches.
- Resting voltage < 12.4V after an overnight sit or failing a quick CCA test.
- Visible swelling, leaks, or cracked case.
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YONHAN Battery Charger 10-Amp 12V and 24V Fully-Automatic Smart Car Battery Charger, Battery Maintainer Trickle Charger, and Battery Desulfator with Temperature Compensation
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Battery Terminal Cleaners (2 pcs), Plus 12 pcs Battery Terminal Anti-Corrosion Fiber Washers (6 Red & 6 Green) for Car Marine Battery
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Contact Honda Customer Service & Support
- Honda Owners: Manuals, maintenance schedules, battery specs — owners.honda.com
- Honda Dealer Locator: Schedule testing/installation — dealer locator
- Support/Recalls: Warranty questions and recalls — Honda Help
Honda Car Battery FAQs
How long should a Honda car battery last?
Most last 3–5 years depending on climate, trip length, and whether the car has idle-stop. Short trips and heat shorten life; maintain with a smart charger to stretch lifespan.
How much is a Honda car battery?
Flooded/SMF units typically run $120–$220; EFB $160–$280; AGM $200–$360+. Large DIN sizes (H6/H7) trend higher. Check live prices: current listings.
Can I replace an AGM with a standard flooded battery?
If your Honda uses idle-stop or came with AGM/EFB, do not downgrade. Use the same or better technology to avoid premature failure and warning lights.
Do I need to reprogram anything after replacement?
Many newer Hondas benefit from battery/BMS registration. A shop or capable OBD-II tool can do this; it helps charging logic and start-stop performance.
Which is more important, CCA or RC?
Cold regions favor higher CCA; city driving and accessory loads benefit from more RC. Aim to meet or exceed both OE targets.
Bottom Line
Match your OEM size and battery technology (Flooded vs EFB vs AGM), meet or exceed CCA and RC, and buy from reputable sources with fresh stock (<90 days). If your Honda has idle-stop, don’t downgrade from EFB/AGM. For quick comparisons, scan 51R AGM, AGM Group 35, H5/Group 47, and keep a smart maintainer for short-trip driving.
Best Car Battery for Honda – Top Picks for Every Model
ACDelco Gold 48AGM (88864541) 36 Month Warranty AGM BCI Group 48 Battery
$183.99
Free Shipping
Amazon
ACDelco Gold 94RAGM (88864542) 36 Month Warranty AGM BCI Group 94R Battery
$178.98
Free Shipping
Amazon
Red Top | 34 BCI Group Number | Automotive Engine | 12 Volt | 800 Cold Cranking Amps | SAE Type A Standard Post Top Terminal | Gel Electrolyte | 10 Inch Length | 6-7/8 Inch Width | 7-13/16 Inch Height
$299.99
Amazon