I had my 2016 XJL at the dealership for some minor repair and in their required check, they found that the main battery was in need of replacement. Since that is going to be over $600, I thought I might look elsewhere. I did a ChatGPT query on recommended batteries, and it recommended one of the following four batteries: Bosch Platinum Series AGM Battery, Interstate MTX-49/H8 AGM Battery, DieHard Platinum AGM Battery H8, or the EverStart Platinum H8 AGM Battery. I thought I would get the battery locally and take it to a “Bring Your Own Parts” place and have them replace it. (Bad back and all, I can’t do it myself. ). Any thoughts on what batteries were recommended, or on the use of such a place to install it? Or, maybe I should just go to a local Pep Boys. Thanks.

 

DonJ, keep in mind that all batteries you look at here in the US are made on 1 of 2 assembly lines (Exide and Johnson Controls). So, if you look at the cases, you will see only 2 styles of cases. Now, the stickers on the outside will be as wide as the earth is. These 2 companies make all the batteries and just put a different sticker on the outside. So, with this being said, the difference between a $400 battery and a $150 battery is just the warrantee. I will let you decide how much of a warrantee you want to pay for. But, from there, all the batteries you list are going to be a quality battery and will do what you need. Just make sure that you look at the batteries and get the biggest one you can size wise that fits in the car. Having too small of a battery can be hard on the car. Too big of one just makes sure the battery will not have to work as hard and more than likely will last a little longer.

ANy battery place should have people on hand to replace the battery for you. Worst case, I know for sure Pep Boys will install the battery for you.

 

I appreciate the very informative response; have a great day!!

 

I just replaced my XJL battery and went to Walmart. I purchased the EverStart Platinum H8 AGM Battery with the 4-year warranty. It was installed at no charge and all is well. Price was $199. Opting for a 3-year warranty was $179. (same battery)
Be not afraid.

 

I also replaced my battery with the Walmart Everstart Platinum H8 with the 4 year warranty. If you're looking at various batteries on the shelf, I always pick the one that has the most recent date code sticker. It's the car version of picking the gallon of milk with the latest expiration date.

 

It's weird that car batteries in the 1980s always lasted 7 years and now they only last 4 years.

 

Not if you regularly use a battery maintainer/tender.
My original F-Type battery (which I suspect is identical to the H8 battery in question here) lasted 10 years before I replaced it about a month ago.

 

I work in the automotive industry and have spent time in domestic battery factories. Batteries have a shorter lifespan now for two main reasons: #1, the electrical loads on them are much higher due to the increased usage of telematics and comfort/convenience items powered by electricity, and #2 because the battery manufacturers use less lead in their grids than back in the 'good old days'. This is to save both weight and cost. Saving weight helps keep the OEMs ahead of fuel consumption targets. Less lead equals a lower cost of manufacturing.

The best battery in an automobile is the battery that comes in it from the factory. "OE type" aftermarket replacements don't come close.

 

I don't know? My factory battery lasted over 10 years and I don't use or keep the car on a battery tender. I only replaced it because I have never seen one last that long before.
The real key is to put the battery in the trunk away from all the dirt and vibration in the engine compartment. Every car I have had with an engine compartment mounted battery had much shorter lives.
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[QUOTE=Thermo;2802669]DonJ, keep in mind that all batteries you look at here in the US are made on 1 of 2 assembly lines (Exide and Johnson Controls). So, if you look at the cases, you will see only 2 styles of cases. Now, the stickers on the outside will be as wide as the earth is. These 2 companies make all the batteries and just put a different sticker on the outside. So, with this being said, the difference between a $400 battery and a $150 battery is just the warrantee. I will let you decide how much of a warrantee you want to pay for. But, from there, all the batteries you list are going to be a quality battery and will do what you need. Just make sure that you look at the batteries and get the biggest one you can size wise that fits in the car. Having too small of a battery can be hard on the car. Too big of one just makes sure the battery will not have to work as hard and more than likely will last a little longer.

ANy battery place should have people on hand to replace the battery for you. Worst case, I know for sure Pep Boys will install the battery for you.[/QUOT
bought mine direct from exell batteries on line lot cheaper

 

Fwiw I just did this myself and wrote it up since I could find no readily available instructions - https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...dition-285635/

But yes, auto parts stores will typically swap batteries for you, providing they can figure it out.

 

It's really not that difficult.

If you have a 'duff ' battery, take it out and replace it.

If you have a scan tool, reset the BCM.

3. If you don't, allow the BCM to self learn over the next few cycles. You'll never know the difference! The BCM is there to stop the alternator pumping wasted energy at the battery, so saving fuel. The BCM works out how much charge it needs, and when excess is available.

wombat

 

Sorry, just answered my own idea in my head!