Do you know the top car battery Brands in Nigeria (2024)? You will find high quality battery in brands like Solite, Hankook, Everstart, Bosh Trojan etc.
Nigeria and its sun! The heat, the light, and sometimes blackouts. But for your car, that severe sunshine is an enemy of the battery. Of course, that is why you should expect it to drain your car’s battery while you are stuck in a traffic jam on Lagos Road.
So, what should one do to select a suitable battery for our unusual climate and avoid being trapped on Third Mainland Bridge?
Nigerians, don’t be afraid! I am here to help you get through Nigeria’s hot world of car batteries. We shall consider the most expensive ones, their price ranges (because cheap is costly), and factors to look into before visiting a mechanic.
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Top Car Battery Brands in Nigeria (2024)
There are many different types of vehicles in Nigeria, which is such a diverse country. Nigerians require batteries that can endure some heat, whether it be a rugged SUV cruising through Lekki roads or an elegant saloon gliding along Abuja expressways. These are some respected brands that offer power + toughness:
1. Hankook (South Korea): These are the kinds of products that, on account of their advanced expertise, have an elongated lifespan to enable people to travel with them even when such journeys take days. Prices commonly start from ₦65,000 to ₦80,000 (as of March 2024).
2. Solite (South Korea): Affordable alternatives? Solite is your answer! These cost-effective batteries produced in South Korea are cost-effective and provide good quality service. So you are going to downtown Lagos, or you will pass through Obudu Mountain Resort and enjoy the view. Try not to forget about Solite. Approximately ₦60,000 – ₦79,000 should go out of your pocket for it (as of March 2024).
3. EverStart (USA): EverStart combines affordability with dependability. This American nameplate is basically famous among motorists who want to save money on fuel consumption. They stock various sizes of batteries, which will fit whatever budget you might possess. Their prices range between ₦ 43,000 and ₦ 50,000 (as of March 2024).
5. Trojan (USA): Do you own a vehicle with a caterwauling sound system, or do you enjoy off-road adventures? If you have such challenges, Trojan’s deep-cycle battery will always help. They are American-made giants for highly electrically demanding vehicles to ensure that you can just turn your music up and conquer any landscape without thinking about it. Despite the specific type model, prices usually start around ₦40, 000 (as of March 2024).
But here is another option for you! However, refer your reliable mechanic or battery expert. Thus, they would tell you which battery suits your car brand as well as driving habits and budget, in addition to how much money it could cost based on exactly where you are.
How to Choose the Right Battery
Choosing a factor isn’t all about standing with one company (even though that awesome Hankook logo looks so good!). Things to ponder over before buying:
- Car Make and Model: Different vehicles require different batteries. From its size and capacity down to terminal placement, make sure that the battery fits into the said car. Remember that advice that your mechanic gave!
- Battery Capacity: The energy reserve contained in a battery is measured in Ampere-hours (Ah), just like a fuel tank for electrical energy. Cars that have many electronic gadgets or features need batteries with higher Ah.
- CCA (Cold Cranking Amps): CCA (Cold Cranking Amps): This shows how well the battery can start your car during cold weather. However, the Nigerian sun cannot be compared to the early morning harmattan sometimes experienced up north! That’s if you are staying around the northern regions!
- Warranty: A good warranty, just like any other business product, signifies the confidence of a manufacturer. As such, it is recommended that batteries be opted for with at least one year of assurance. In any event, serenity and freedom are invaluable.
Local Legends: Supporting Nigerian Businesses
Even though multinationals dominate this market, there are also some strong Nigerian competitors which should not be overlooked:
- Gbao Batteries: Gbao batteries supported by Guaranty Trust Holding (GTCo) offer drivers an affordable and reliable alternative in Nigeria. They can be easily accessed and come with longer guarantees.
- Diamond Batteries: Diamond batteries have been popular in Nigeria for decades because they offer various car battery options for different budgets or needs.
- Unique (Formerly Unique Firestone): Despite changing their name lately, Unique batteries are among the most popular brands due to their ability to last long and pocket-friendly prices.
Ask your mechanic about these local brands without worrying. He may have valuable information regarding how they work as well as after-sales services within your area.
Top Battery Care Tips
Knowing how to choose the right battery, here are some of the most crucial things that you have in mind in order to keep it efficient:
- Regular Maintenance: A simple check by a mechanic will make sure there is no corrosion on your battery terminals. It takes a small thing like this to lengthen a battery’s life considerably.
- Turn Off Electronics: When you park for many hours, do not leave dome lights or interior electronics on. This actually leads to a dead battery.
- Avoid Extreme Temperatures: If possible, find shade when parking, especially during noon hours. Extreme temperatures can shorten the lives of batteries.
- Short Trips vs. Long Drives: Once in a while, if you typically drive short distances, try going for longer drives. In this way, slow discharge is avoided, and the accumulator gets fully recharged once again.
- Check each cell using a hydrometer and test electrolytes to see if the vehicle’s battery has enough charge.
If the battery that operates your car fails because of decay, you can get an alternative vehicle battery replacement and thereby save yourself from destroying the entire car.
By following these tips and selecting the right battery for your requirements, you can avoid the dreaded “click, click, no crank” situation and enjoy a smooth ride along Nigerian roads.
What Are Some Things To Consider When Choosing A Car Battery?
However, there are other considerations to make, which are not discussed in this article, such as brands and critical specifications.
- Maintenance-free vs. Refillable: Although refillable batteries need occasional topping up with distilled water, they are generally cheaper. Maintenance-free batteries require less upkeep but usually cost more.
- Reserve Capacity: A higher reserve capacity is better in case of longer trips or when you might get stuck in traffic. It reflects how long your car’s electrical system will run on battery power alone if there is a failure in the alternator.
How To Maintain Car Battery Terminal
Here’s a simple guide on how to do it:
- Safety First: Before starting any maintenance, make sure the car is turned off, and you’re wearing appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection.
- Inspect the Terminals: Check the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion, which typically appears as a powdery substance (often green or white) around the terminals. If corrosion is present, it needs to be removed.
- Disconnect the Battery: To safely clean the terminals, you should disconnect the battery. Start by loosening the nut on the negative (-) terminal clamp using a wrench or socket. Once loosened, carefully remove the negative terminal clamp from the battery terminal. Repeat the same process for the positive (+) terminal clamp.
- Clean the Terminals: Use a battery terminal cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to clean the terminals and clamps. Apply the cleaner or mixture to the terminals and use a wire brush to scrub off the corrosion gently. Ensure all corrosion is removed from both the terminals and clamps.
- Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, rinse the terminals and clamps with water to remove any remaining cleaner or baking soda solution. Once rinsed, dry the terminals and clamps thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth.
- Reconnect the Battery: Once the terminals are clean and dry, reconnect the battery in the reverse order of disconnection. Start by attaching the positive (+) terminal clamp to the positive battery terminal, then tighten the nut securely. Repeat the same process for the negative (-) terminal clamp.
- Test the Connection: After reconnecting the battery, ensure that both terminal clamps are securely tightened. Attempt to move them by hand to check for any looseness. A snug fit is essential to maintain a good electrical connection.
Conclusion
That is all! Information acquisition and informed choices regarding your motor vehicle battery ensure that your Nigerian escapades continue uninterrupted. Go for a reputable brand as your number one priority, think about what kind of vehicle you have, and never forget those maintenance tips. Just be confident that you can handle everything from Lagos traffic congestion to long road trips around the country.
Keep safe!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
How Often Can I Replace My Car Battery?
The useful life of a car’s battery is approximately 3-5 years, depending on how often it is used, weather conditions, and how well it is maintained.
When Should I Change My Car’s Battery?
Your vehicle does not easily start, your lights dim or become less bright, there are rusty/greenish deposits on the battery terminals, or the battery casing has swollen up or bulged out.
Can I Replace My Car Battery?
Though this can be done by someone else, it is always best to allow a professional auto mechanic to do this. Your battery or electrical system could be damaged if it isn’t installed properly.
What Should I Do With My Old Car Battery?
Just don’t throw away an already dead cell! They are dangerous and need special management at their disposal. Many stores sell batteries, and most garages have recycling programs for old ones.
Is It Wrong To Have You Used Jumper Cables On Your Vehicle Often?
Sometimes, jumping is acceptable; however, regular jumping means something profound about your battery or charging system. You should take the vehicle to a garage where the mechanic will trace the root.