Duracel batteries, any good?
 

Need a new battery for my '85 190D 5-spd. They are getting difficult to find. A local chain, Batteries+Bulbs, has a Duracel Ultra Platinum AGM for $215 and with a current $10 rebate. Are these Duracel car batteries any good, or should I keep searching? Thanks.

No experience with Duracel but I do know that Interstate sells an excellent battery.

You're correct. Just need to find someone who sells them in North Idaho.

Use the Interstate website. They show several sellers in Boise.

Thank you for reminding me about Interstate batteries. I did a quick Google search and found a distribution center that sells retail about a half hour from me, in Spokane Valley, (Boise is about an eight hour drive from me). Picked one up, and a battery for my Piaggio MP3 too.

Great.

AGM batteries use a special charging system which exists in the latest cars. Stick to a plain old battery.

Interstate also sell their econo-power line from their warehouse locations, they are usually half price but carry a 90 day warranty only.

If it comforts you, I installed econo-power batteries in 2 cars 4 years ago and they are perfect even today (I had to top up with distilled water once - followed by a long cycle charge for a day)

I have started to buy the interstate eco battery line as well in Canada. At about a third or less than most new batteries all in. Only a six month warranty but what is their to lose? If they stand up well for six months they will usually go a reasonable distance. Some newer cars are too battery sensitive to use them.

The `123 diesel battery is 59.00 Canadian. That is only about 40.00 American. I do not trust any battery to last well if not in reasonably constant service. So it is pointless to use batteries approaching two hundred dollars here.

The majority of smaller batteries are even cheaper. They have too many of them in stock so I do not have a clear picture of exactly what they are. What I do know is they solved my battery issues cheap.

I have talked to guys that have used them long term in regular service with no apparent issues. The place I buy them at keep them in the back room so you have to ask. The outer case has obviously been used. Yet they load check as new. They are obviously an interstate distributor. As the large battery delivery trucks are parked there.

I do not believe in reconditioned batteries unless the internal plates are changed. This is a pretty common practice in some parts of the world. .

I went with Napa $125.

Im running a 4 yea Old duracel battery in my 87 300d with no problems, group 49