What qualities do you look for in a battery?

[stillkotd]

The battery in the 325i finally crapped out on me, which made me realize: I have no idea what to look for when shopping for a car battery.

What should I be looking for? Any brands you recommend to buy or stay away from?

[Mikhail Bakunin]

Go cheap with walmart/samsclub and replace more often.

Or A optima Red Top - it'll last longer, and you can abuse it more often. And don't listen to people that tell you that red tops are now made in mexico and are crap - It's the same battery - same quality.

The middle of the road - isn't going to get you anywhere.

[Simon S]

^^ agreed

Red Top model for e30s is the "34R"

You'll need a new ground strap (easily found at most parts stores) - as the OE one is too short.

[KenC]

I bought mine at Knechts. Not sure if that's local only. It was like $70 and has a 96mo warranty.

Series 49 is what you want. It's a tad longer than stock, but same height and width. I think it was for the 6-series.

[BeirBrennerE30]

I have a Braille 15lb battery. So far so good without the weight penalty. I dont drive it in the winter though.

[SoEm0]

Most of my friends have gone with Kenetik in their cars (not e30's). There is another company that makes Kenetik's batteries but sells them as their brand and is cheaper. I have to find the name of the battery, I plan to run one when mine finally takes a crap.

[Mikhail Bakunin]

Is that a factory tie-down? I don't know what they look like.

Is that top plate metal??? - kinda make me nervous!