Every car needs a different power output, battery size, and more. Therefore, every car battery will have a different weight.
The average weight for a 12V lead-acid battery is 41 pounds. Batteries may weigh more or less depending on their size, BCI group, and age.
Popular Car Battery Weight Chart
A car battery’s weight depends on how big it is. Here is a chart of car battery weights according to their group sizes:
| Vehicle | BCI Group | Weight in kg | Weight in pound |
| Honda Accord | Group 47 | 18.1 | 42 |
| Toyota RAV4, Subaru, Toyota Corolla | Group 35 | 17.7 | 39 |
| Ford Explorer | Group 65 | 21.3 | 47 |
| Ford Focus, Chevrolet Malibu | Group 48 | 21.2 | 46.7 |
| Chevrolet Impala | Group 94R | 24.3 | 53.6 |
| Honda Civic | Group 51 | 12.2 | 27 |
| Mercedes, Volkswagen | Group 94R | 24.3 | 53.6 |
| Nissan Altima | Group 24F | 20.4 | 45 |
Why Are Car Batteries Heavy?
Car batteries are heavy because of what they are made of. Most car batteries are still lead-acid batteries. This means that inside the casing is a mixture of lead and a water-based electrolyte solution. While this solution makes the battery heavy, it’s still the best power source for most cars.
However, there are alternatives to lead-acid batteries. Here are a few examples of alternative battery options:
Lithium Batteries: These work best in electric or hybrid-electric cars. They are lighter than lead-acid batteries, and they are more efficient.
Unfortunately, lithium batteries can also be much more expensive than a standard car battery. There may be certain safety issues associated with lithium batteries as well, especially at lower temperatures.
LiFePO4 Batteries: This is another type of lithium battery. They have a longer life cycle, meaning they can last longer than a lead-acid battery. Much like other lithium batteries, they weigh less than a standard battery, but they are much more expensive.
How To Determine The Weight Of A Car Battery
There are a few ways that you can determine the weight of your car’s battery. It’s not always possible to weigh the battery by itself, so one of these other methods is best.
Check Battery’s Label or Packaging
First, you can check the label or the packaging on the battery. The label will usually tell you how much the battery weighs in pounds, as well as other important information.
If the label has been worn away, you can always check the car’s owner’s manual. Usually, there is information about the factory battery in the owner’s manual.
Checking The Battery Size
Alternatively, you can guess the weight of the battery based on the size. In the chart above, you can see that each BCI group has a similar size and weight. Checking the BCI group of your battery against the standard size can help you determine the battery’s weight.
| BCI Group | Popular Vehicle | Weight in kg | Weight in pound |
| Group 47 | Honda Accord | 18.1 | 42 |
| Group 35 | Toyota RAV4, Subaru, Toyota Corolla | 17.7 | 39 |
| Group 24F | Toyota Corolla, Nissan Altima | 20.4 | 45 |
| Group 65 | Ford Explorer | 21.3 | 47 |
| Group 48 | Ford Focus, Chevrolet Malibu | 21.2 | 46.7 |
| Group 51 | Honda Civic | 12.2 | 27 |
| Group 94R | Mercedes, Volkswagen | 24.3 | 53.6 |
The size of the battery can also tell you how much it weighs. The bigger a battery is in size, the heavier it will generally be.
It is important to consider age if you choose to weigh the battery. A new battery will be significantly heavier than a battery that has been in a car for several years. If a battery is dead, it will be lighter than a new battery.
Conclusion
It’s clear that the weight of your car’s battery is very important to your car’s performance. When replacing your car battery, considering the old battery’s weight is key to choosing the best new battery. While there are other factors at play, the battery’s weight is a good place to start.
FAQS
How much does a car battery cost?
The cost of a car battery depends on the quality. A standard lead-acid car battery can cost between $50 and $120 depending on the size and group.
Premium lead-acid batteries may cost up to $200. Lithium car batteries can cost up to $1700 in some cases.
How long is a car battery lifespan?
The average lead-acid car battery is expected to last between 4 and 6 years. There are other factors that determine how long a battery will last. The weather, what type of vehicle you drive, and your driving habits can all affect the life of the battery.
What are the signs that your car needs a new battery?
Your car will tell you when the battery needs to be replaced. Dim headlights and other electrical issues could be a sign of a failing battery.
If the engine is slow to start or crank, it might be time to check the battery charge. If you hear a clicking sound when you turn the key, a new battery is probably in your future.
