Whether you’re a truck driver or work in the auto repair shop, keeping your batteries charged is an essential task. This list of five best batteries for diesel trucks includes brands like Trojan and Exide that offer high-quality products at affordable prices with reliable warranties.
The “which battery is best for diesel truck” is a question that has been asked many times. The article will provide the 5 best batteries for diesel trucks, with a detailed review and buying guide.
It is obvious that you must get the correct batteries for whatever car you possess, whether or not it has a diesel engine.
However, there are distinct criteria for Diesel-powered vehicles vs diesel automobiles, as well as additional considerations for diesel engines that do not apply to gas engines.
AT A GLANCE: THE 3 BEST Diesel-powered vehicle BATTERIES
Table of Contents
When purchasing a battery for a Diesel-powered vehicle, there are four things to keep in mind.
When purchasing a new battery for your diesel vehicle, consider the following factors: CCA score, Group size of batteries, quantity of batteries, and if you use accessories.
CCA score
Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) stands for Cold Cranking Amps. When the temperature outdoors is 0 degrees Fahrenheit, it relates to how many amps can be constantly provided by a 12-volt battery for up to 30 seconds. The battery must also perform all of this while sustaining 7.2 volts.
That’s the technical definition. In simpler terms, the higher the CCA score, the better the starting capacity of a battery.
What is the significance of this for Diesel-powered vehicles? Starting a diesel engine requires more power than starting a gas engine.
Spark plugs physically provide the spark that ignites the air/fuel combination in the combustion chambers of a gas engine. Compression ignition is used in diesel engines to ignite the air/fuel combination.
Diesel engines use glow plugs to produce enough heat for effective compression while starting the vehicle.
Unlike gasoline engines, which utilize spark plugs continually after starting, diesel engines only require glow plugs during cold starts. Because it takes a lot of energy to heat the glow plugs, diesel engines need more power to start than gasoline engines.
This higher energy demand is true in all weather, but it is more critical during the winter months.
Knowing this, you want to buy a battery with a high CCA score. Go with one that at least meets the CCA score of the OEM battery, but ideally, you would get one that exceeds it. You can usually find this specification written somewhere on the battery itself.
For most conditions in the continental United States, an 800 CCA battery is required. This, however, varies depending on your vehicle, the area, and any driving gear you utilize.
Recommended CCA score table for popular Diesel-powered vehicles
This table shows some recommended CCA scores for popular Diesel-powered vehicles.
| No | Diesel-powered vehicle | CCA score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ford F250 | 850 CCA |
| 2 | Silverado Chevrolet | 850 CCA |
| 3 | Colorado Chevrolet | 900 CCA |
| 4 | Titan XD Nissan | 750 CCA |
| 5 | 1500 Dodge Ram | 730 CCA |
| 6 | 2500 Dodge Ram | 850 CCA |
Recommended CCA score table for popular Diesel-powered vehicles
Buy batteries with the highest CCA score on market here:
1150 CCA ODYSSEY
850 CCA XS Power
850 CCA ACDelco Gold
Group size of batteries and number of batteries
As already discussed, Diesel-powered vehicles use a lot of energy. This usually means they also need large batteries, as well as more than one battery, to function.
Of course, since this varies from vehicle to truck, we can’t say how many batteries are required or what size is best. However, we can assist you in determining the appropriate size and quantity.
Group size of batteries
Group size of batteriess 31, 65, 48(H6), 94R(H7), 34/78, 34, 78 are common Group size of batteriess for Diesel-powered vehicles.
| BCI Group Code | L(inches) | W(inches) | H(inches) | L(mm) | W(mm) | H(mm) |
| 31 | 13 | 6.8 | 9.4 | 330 | 173 | 240 |
| 65 | 12.1 | 7.5 | 7.6 | 306 | 192 | 192 |
| 48(H6) | 12.1 | 6.9 | 7.6 | 278 | 175 | 190 |
| 94R(H7) | 12.4 | 6.9 | 7.5 | 315 | 175 | 190 |
| 34/78 | 10.3 | 6.8 | 7.9 | 260 | 173 | 200 |
| 34 | 10.3 | 6.8 | 7.9 | 260 | 173 | 200 |
| 78 | 10.3 | 7.3 | 7.1 | 260 | 180 | 186 |
Dimensions of common Group size of batteriess for truck
However, to make sure that you choose the right Group size of batteries for your truck, you can try three different methods below:
- Check your owner’s manual for information about Group size of batteries. If you don’t have a physical copy of the manual, you can usually go online and search for the owner’s manual for the make, model, and year of your truck.
- The group size may be found on the label of your old battery. This may normally be found on the battery’s top or side.
- If neither of the above methods work, you can measure the battery box to find the correct Group size of batteries. Measure the length, width, and height of the battery and take note of this. You can use a site such as this one to match your measurement with the proper group size: Maximum Outside Dimension Chart for Automotive Batteries (raybuck.com).
Battery quantity
Before you go to replace the battery for your Diesel-powered vehicle, you need to check how many batteries are actually under the hood. This information can also often be found in your truck owner’s manual.
A Diesel-powered vehicle often needs at least two batteries, but some have 3, 4, or even 6 batteries (often for heavy-duty trucks)! As noted above, the reason Diesel-powered vehicles have more batteries than gasoline trucks or even diesel cars is that they require more power to start the truck successfully.
As an example, some Diesel-powered vehicle owners’ have discussed how many batteries they use for their trucks. A 7L Diesel engine often requires 2 batteries (For example, Ford F250, Ford F350), and a 14-15L Diesel engine often requires 4 batteries (For example, Freightliner Cascadia).
Are you in charge of accessories?
While the CCA score is important, another rating is also worth paying attention to. This is known as the AH rating.
The Ah rating indicates how many amps the battery can provide for up to 20 hours before the voltage dips.
With Diesel-powered vehicles demanding a lot of power, you want a high ah rating to ensure your truck runs well even when also using accessories such as air conditioning, radio, etc.
Keep in mind that if you intend on installing additional electrical equipment than came with your vehicle, the total power consumption may rise. An aftermarket audio system, for example, may use more power than the stock system.
When the vehicle is parked but operating, he utilizes four batteries to power the air conditioning and heating. Deep cycle marine batteries are the extra batteries he uses.
Quora user Geoff Young
To put it another way, keep your unique circumstances in mind. If you have a lot of equipment, you may need more batteries than the vehicle originally came with.
Here’s a link to a battery with a high Ah rating for sale:
Group 31 100Ah ODYSSEY
65 86Ah XS Power Group
Best Diesel-powered vehicle Batteries For Cold Weather
1150 CCA ODYSSEY Group 31
Group 31 ODYSSEY 31-PC2150S
The Odyssey 31-PC2150S is a powerful, well-built battery that can withstand the most extreme conditions.
ODYSSEY 31-PC2150S is a premium battery featuring a non-spillable AGM design and a high CCA score of 1,150 amps. It uses a lead plate design for greatly increased power and lifespan when compared to other batteries. It also has a convenient rectangular shape.
You can be confident this battery will work well for your Diesel-powered vehicle, as it’s rated to be used on heavy-duty equipment like tractors. Heavy-duty equipment has to perform under demanding loads consistently, which will be more than enough for your truck.
In fact, the NOAA, the scientific agency in charge of weather monitoring and forecasting, prefers to use these batteries over the suggested ones since they perform better. Their batteries are exposed to the elements, from the parched desert to the harsh temperature of Northern Montana.
In other words, if the batteries are good enough to power certified scientific equipment, they will certainly power your vehicle!
However, if you have a problem, Odyssey’s customer service may be difficult to contact. Fortunately, their items are dependable.
Expect them to be hefty, too, since they’re such a tough battery. One of these batteries is around 70 pounds in weight.
Overall, this is a great choice for your Diesel-powered vehicle if you need a powerful battery (or set of batteries), whether that is due to living in a cold climate or simply running a lot of accessories.
Customer comments
I have three Odyssey PC2150S AGM batteries, and they are excellent; I strongly suggest them.
The Hull Truth – Salty G
I purchased one of the 2150 batteries and it has proven to be the greatest battery I have ever used. The reserve is incredible. I kept the fan on all night, and it still turned on. I would recommend it if you can afford it.
Defender Source – Scott 9835
Pros
- Comes with a high CCA score
- Construction is tough.
- High-capacity battery that can last all day
- Long-term viability
Cons
- Customer service might be difficult to come by.
Group 31 ODYSSEY 31-PC2150S
Group 65 XS Power D6500
Group 65 XS Power D6500
The XS Power D6500 battery has a non-spillable AGM construction that makes it safer and longer lasting than other batteries on the market.
The XS Power D6500 is designed for racing purposes, but it’s a fantastic battery to have even if you don’t plan on racing your truck or going fast. A racing-engineered battery is designed to endure being pushed to its limits under extreme conditions.
The battery has an impressive CCA of 850 amps and no exterior vents. The lack of external vents is a big plus because it allows you to mount the battery almost anywhere without fear of damage.
Many customers have successfully utilized these batteries to power their improved sound systems. Double-check the battery condition before shipment to make sure it’s sealed and not leaking.
This is another good choice for cold weather environments because you get a super powerful battery that will stand up to the task of starting up your Diesel-powered vehicle even when it’s super cold outside.
Customer comments
Just to point out that the D6500 and this battery both have the same number of amp hours. Of course, the D6500 is the superior battery, but the ratings are close and the price difference is significant. Instead of only running one batt, why don’t you put a second batt in back beside the amp to help?
Car Audio by bgowdy
The D6500 has a lot more capacity and produces a lot more instantaneous power, which is what you need for mobile audio and starting power. One of the smallest XS Power batteries (D375) started a 12V Diesel-powered vehicle 15 times in a row before we had to stop, because the starter was getting hot.
The D6500 costs more than the typical battery.
Titan Talk – XS Power
Pros
- Has a lot of strength
- Spill-proof
- Installation is simple.
- Headlights have not dimmed due to a high available amperage output.
Cons
- On rare occasions, items have been known to arrive damaged.
- Some car kinds’ battery holders may not fit.
Group 65 XS Power D6500
DH6 Optima Yellowtop
DH6 Optima Yellowtop Group H6
With 800 CCA, a cool yellow color and unique shape, and a design meant to ensure your vehicle start on even the coldest mornings. The Optima Yellow Top DH6 is an excellent choice for Diesel-powered vehicles.
DH6 Optima Yellowtop is guaranteed to provide a start even if the weather is bad, giving you the confidence you need when you go out to your truck for that first start of the day.
Optima has also been around for more than 40 years. They are one of the most well-known names in the battery business. You know you’re getting great quality when you purchase an Optima battery.
One disadvantage is that it is Vehicle-specific information, so check sure the battery is compatible with the make, model, and year of your truck.
This battery, like the others described, has an AGM spill-proof construction. It may also be mounted practically anyplace it would fit.
While this battery has less total power than the other two alternatives, it still has enough power to be useful. You also receive the Optima brand’s reputation for dependability and quality.
Customer comments
All of Jay Leno’s vehicles are powered by Optima batteries. You don’t have to be concerned about fluids spilling out, he claims.
Corvette Forum – Ron Attleboro MA
I adore my Genesis Offroad Dual Battery setup and have two Optima yellow tops.
JK Forum – gfe jeep
In the past, I used Optima in my hot rod vehicle. When I went to the local battery store a few years ago to inquire about an Optima, I was informed that they were no longer manufactured in the United States, but rather in Mexico. That makes me wonder about the battery’s quality management.
Corvette Forum – LanceVette
Pros
- prestigious
- It may be placed anywhere.
- Quick start, plenty of power
- Integrated handle
Cons
- Vehicle-specific information
- Having recessed connections makes wiring more complicated.
DH6 Optima Yellowtop
Best Price For Diesel-powered vehicle Batteries
CCA Group 94R ACDelco 850
94R ACDelco Gold Group
The ACDelco 850 CCA is a good choice for the more budget-conscious Diesel-powered vehicle drivers who want a good battery without breaking the bank.
The ACDelco Gold 94RAGM battery, with 850 CCA, corrosion resistance, and a spill-proof AGM construction, costs little over $160.
ACDelco is a well-known and reputable name in the automobile industry, so you can be certain that even their lower-cost solutions are of high quality.
Both truck and SUV drivers have used this ACDelco battery without fail. It is powerful enough to meet the high demands of Diesel-powered vehicles for starting and running accessories.
While the product description may claim “does not fit your car,” several consumers have noted that the battery may still fit. Check your group size; if your group size is 94R, this battery should fit in your engine compartment.
This is a good option to upgrade your Diesel-powered vehicle’s stock battery (or batteries) affordably while still increasing the power, durability, and performance.
Pros
- Affordable
- Battery with 850 CCA capacity.
- Has the design of twin handles
- Exact measurements and a large capacity
Cons
- It may not last as long as other solutions.
94R ACDelco Gold Group
34/78 Optima Redtop Group
34/78 Optima Redtop Group
The Optima Redtop battery is a spill-proof AGM battery with a distinctive red color, 800 CCA, and the ability to start in freezing temperatures.
We mentioned the Yellowtop from Optima above, and the Redtop is the less powerful version of the Yellowtop. Optima recommends the Redtop for Diesel-powered vehicles and other vehicles without aftermarket electronics.
In other words, if you need a battery that is Affordable and can handle the needs of your Diesel-powered vehicle but has not added accessories/drive a stock truck, the Redtop is a good choice.
When bought from Amazon, however, the Redtop does not come with a guarantee. If an Optima warranty or guarantee is essential to you, keep this in mind.
Redtop batteries have also been reported to die after just one year of usage by certain users. Make sure the battery isn’t overcharged. If you have aftermarket electronics, the Yellowtop is the superior choice over the Redtop since it is more expensive and powerful.
Ultimately, this battery comes in at a little over $260, has good power, and can handle the demands of stock Diesel-powered vehicles. However, you might want to choose another option if you have add-ons that increase the power demand on your battery.
Pros
- Long life expectancy, up to 8-9 years
- reputable battery manufacturer
Cons
- If purchased through Amazon, there is no warranty.
34/78 Optima Redtop Group
Conclusion
In sum, if you live in a cold climate and want to have the most reliable starting power for your Diesel-powered vehicle, we recommend you go with the Odyssey 31-PC2150S. It is reliable, durable, and very powerful.
Choose the ACDelco Gold 94RAGM if price is the most important factor. It is reasonably priced (in the context of batteries) and boasts a spill-proof AGM construction. To put it another way, you get a lot of battery for a low price.
Group 31 ODYSSEY 31-PC2150S
94R ACDelco Gold Group
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The “best heavy-duty truck battery” is a type of battery that is used in diesel trucks. It has the ability to power the engine for long periods of time and it can be found in most heavy-duty trucks. The batteries are rated by Amp Hour (Ah) which tells you how much charge they can hold. This article will review 5 best batteries for diesel truck and give you buying guide.
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