Car batteries are one of the most essential yet puzzling features of vehicles. If you seek a new battery for your auto, you can be overwhelmed by the myriad options available. Several manufacturers provide car batteries, but Duralast and Diehard batteries stand out for their remarkable reliability.
So, which of the two batteries is well-fitting for your vehicle? Read on to learn all you need about these two popular battery brands.
Contents
Are Duralast and Diehard Batteries the Same?
The same company manufactures Diehard and Duralast batteries, but there are various variations between the two brands.
The primary distinctive feature of Diehard batteries is they last longer than other battery brands, while Duralast batteries are known for their excellent performance. Nevertheless, the two brands offer similar specs and features, so most buyers typically confuse them.
Duralast Batteries Overview
Duralast batteries are among the most popular battery brands globally and can be found at AutoZone Stores. The model is available in three mundane model options: regular, gold, and premium. Duralast Regular is the entry-level battery model by the brand, typically classified as a starter battery.
The battery produces power to start the engine and recharges as it runs. This model is well-recommended if your auto has no fancy features or extras.
Conversely, Duralast Gold batteries come with extra lead plates than the base model, offering superior functionality and performance. This battery variation is ideal if you drive in extreme temperature conditions and is an excellent fit for vehicles with high power requirements, like heated seats.
The Platinum variation boasts the Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) technology, producing more power. The Duralast Platinum battery most suits off-roaders and autos with many electrical accessories.
Diehard Batteries Overview
Diehard is a reputable brand that offers a wide selection of reliable batteries. Diehard batteries are available in five models built using cutting-edge technology to match the power requirements of various vehicles.
These battery variations include:
- Diehard Red
- Diehard Silver
- Diehard Gold
- Diehard Platinum
- Diehard Platinum AGM
The entry-level model, RED, is typically utilized for ignition, while the Diehard Silver iteration can also power up a few accessories besides reliable ignition in all seasons.
On the other hand, Diehard Gold batteries guarantee superior performance, offering powerful ignition in all climate seasons. The Platinum variation provides more reliability and performance than its preceding siblings, with significantly higher output to power mid-range accessories.
The Platinum AGM marks the pinnacle of Diehard batteries, handling high-demand extras on power-hungry vehicles.
Duralast Battery vs. Diehard Battery Comparison
Let’s look at a detailed comparison of Duralast and Diehard batteries.
Who Makes Duralast and Diehard Batteries?
Duralast has been around for decades, with a rich heritage dating back to 1885, when its initial manufacturer, Johnson Controls International, was founded.
In 2019, Brookfield Business Partners acquired Johnson Controls and established Clarios LLC, the current manufacturer of Duralast batteries. AutoZone Stores exclusively distribute these batteries.
Similarly, Clarios LLC manufactures Diehard batteries, a brand that has existed since 1967. Sears Roebuck & Company previously owned Diehard, with batteries produced by Globe-Union Battery.
Later on, Johnson Controls obtained Globe-Union Battery and manufactured the Diehard batteries. In 2019, the company sold its battery operations to the present producer, Clarios LLC.
Duralast vs. Diehard Battery Type and Technology
Both Diehard and Duralast batteries are available in two types; AGM batteries and Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries.
The latter type is commonly found on older car models and contains liquid electrolyte that sparks chemical reactions to power the engine. The chemical properties mush freely around in Lead-Acid batteries. While both brands offer flooded lead-acid batteries, Diehard options offer somewhat more performance than Duralast.
AGM batteries retain the flooded lead-acid battery concept, but the chemical properties are contained within fiberglass mats. This battery type is prevalent on newer car models, featuring easier led management and more efficient power delivery.
Duralast reigns supreme in this battery type, offering better longevity and performance than Diehard AGM batteries.
Duralast vs. Diehard RC Rating
Reserve capacity (RC) rating indicates the time (in minutes) a fully charged car battery can produce 25 amps at 80°F before dropping below its minimum voltage. This rating shows how efficiently a battery can release energy over time while remaining free of the car’s charging mechanism.
The higher the RC rating, the longer the car battery will deliver power. Both Duralast and Diehard offer different battery models with varying RC ratings.
Duralast vs. Diehard Cold Cranking Power
A car battery’s cold-cranking amps (CCA) score indicates its capacity to power up the engine in a cold environment.
This rating describes the amount of power in amps the car battery can produce and sustain in 30 seconds at 0°F. Car batteries typically slow down during cold weather, but you can remedy the situation by getting a battery with efficient CCA.
Duralast and Diehard provide superior battery models with high CCA output. As a result, batteries by Duralast offer excellent ACC ratings, scoring between 700A and 800A. Conversely, Diehard batteries give the highest ACC score, ranging from 550A to 900A.
Duralast vs. Diehard Operating Temperature Range
Diehard and Duralast batteries generally offer wide operating temperature ranges, from as low as 40°F to 110°F. The operation temperature range varies with the battery type and model.
Duralast Gold and Diehard Platinum provide the highest operating temperature ranges and can work efficiently in adverse temperatures.
Duralast vs. Diehard Ease of Maintenance
Duralast and Diehard batteries are easy to maintain. All you need is to adhere to the simple maintenance instructions you would find on other automobile batteries.
Also, both brands offer maintenance-free models, including Duralast Gold and Diehard Platinum AGM, saving you the hassles and costs associated with battery maintenance.
Duralast vs. Diehard Durability comparison
Both brands provide impressive battery durability. Diehard batteries feature a three to five years lifespan in ideal conditions. However, this lifespan will vary depending on various factors such as temperature, charging system type, maintenance, and driving frequency.
Similarly, Duralast batteries averagely last between three to five years, with the longevity varying with the model. Duralast Platinum batteries offer a longer lifespan, which explains their fairly high price.
It is important to note that the longevity of car batteries will differ in the long run depending on the maintenance and usage, regardless of the brand you buy.
Duralast vs. Diehard Warranty and Replacement
Warranties in car batteries cover free replacement and prorate replacement durations. Even with regular proper maintenance practices, your car battery will still need replacements at some point. A warranty ensures peace of mind whenever you are behind the wheel.
Both brands offer lucrative warranty coverage, with Duralast offering two years of warranty coverage while Diehard comes with a three-year warranty. So, Diehard tops this segment with a more extended warranty period.
However, learning about the breach rules is vital to avoid issues and keep your battery purchase covered regardless of the brand.
Duralast vs. Diehard Price
Duralast and Diehard batteries fall within the same price range. Typically, the battery pricing varies with the size, model, and additional features. In this situation, both battery brands provide similar pricing with a few variations.
Duralast vs. Diehard Batteries Pros and Cons Table Summary
| Duralast Battery | Diehard Battery | ||
| Pros | Cons | Pros | Cons |
| Most parts are maintenance-free | Some models come with a relatively higher discharge rate, shortening the lifespan | Longer life span | Some models are relatively costly |
| Wide range of use fitting various vehicle needs | Some models lack a handle, making handling and carrying difficult | Better CCA scores | Some models aren’t efficient in extreme cold weather conditions |
| Offers a durable solid build | Some models are relatively expensive | Reliable and dependable | Some models are difficult to install |
| Reliable and dependable | Offers excellent value for money | ||
| Relatively high reserve capacity | Superior starting performance |
Is Duralast or Diehard Better?
Duralast and Diehard batteries have a lot in common, from the same manufacturer to quality. Both brands are equally good and excellent for various cars. The better choice between Duralast and Diehard narrows to specific factors.
For instance, a flooded lead-acid battery is well-recommended if you drive an older car. In such a case, Diehard Gold and Duralast Platinum are suitable choices. AGM batteries are ideal for new autos with modern accessories and specs. Diehard AGM batteries are better suited for more recent vehicles.
Where To Buy Duralast and Diehard Batteries
Diehard batteries are available at all Advance Auto Parts stores around the world. To find the nearest store, visit the Advanced Auto Parts website, select your preferred battery or product, and search for a store selling it near you.
Alternatively, you can buy Diehard batteries and related products online and opt for the Advance Auto Parts home shipping option at an extra fee.
You can also find Diehard batteries and related products at Kmart, Sears.com, and Sears Hometown Stores.
On the other hand, Duralast batteries are available at AutoZone stores. Visit the website and find stores near you, or make an order online and get your battery shipped to your home (shipping fees apply). While you can find these brands in other stores, you won’t be as certain of warranty coverage as buying from the official distributor.
FAQs
Duralast vs. Diehard Batteries - Comparison Guide - My Car Makes Noise? ›
Duralast Platinum batteries are sealed and spill-proof, extremely vibration resistant, mount in almost any position and carry two-times the deep cycle capacity of a Duralast Gold Battery. Duralast Platinum Batteries are the best choice for starting your vehicle and maintaining all your power demands.
Are Duralast batteries better? ›Duralast Platinum batteries are sealed and spill-proof, extremely vibration resistant, mount in almost any position and carry two-times the deep cycle capacity of a Duralast Gold Battery. Duralast Platinum Batteries are the best choice for starting your vehicle and maintaining all your power demands.
Is DieHard a good battery brand? ›Big-name battery brands DieHard (Sears and Kmart), EverStart (Walmart), and Interstate all top our Ratings in some group sizes, but they are at or near the bottom in others. The greatest inconsistency comes from DieHard, which makes both the best and worst performers in two of six common sizes.
Why are DieHard batteries better? ›Today, DieHard batteries meet the power-hungry demands of new vehicles stamped grid technology for nearly three times more corrosion resistance, increased durability and full grid utilization for 60% more electrical flow compared to other grid designs.
How good are Duralast batteries for cars? ›It has very good life and cold cranking scores, but average reserve capacity. It comes with an 36 month free replacement warranty. This model does not come with a handle which can make installation more difficult. This recommended model has been tested by our experts.
Which brand of battery lasts the longest and why? ›In general, batteries made by reputable companies with strong brand names do indeed perform better than the cheap stuff. Energizer, and Duracell (probably the most expensive battery brands) are among the best performers.
How long does a DieHard battery usually last? ›With good driving habits, the average battery can last three or even four years. We recommend DieHard Gold or Platinum AGM batteries, which are top performers with generous three-year warranties. Ask your Advance Auto Parts associate for help finding the right battery for your vehicle.
Who makes DieHard now? ›When replacing the batteries, it is best to use new and unused alkaline batteries. We recommend name brand batteries, Duracell or Energizer brands are always good choices. Store brands do not operate at the same level of reliability.
Does brand make a difference in batteries? ›Is a brand name battery any different from a generic or a store brand? "If you're talking about alkaline batteries, the chemistry is always the same," Illinois Institute of Technology physics professor Carlo Segre says. He says the quality of manufacturing can vary, making the name brands a safer bet.
Which type of battery lasts longer? ›
Lithium Batteries
One AA lithium battery ranges from 2,700-3,400 mAh, and will last a long time, even under heavy-use.
We install DieHard auto batteries—America's most trusted auto battery. DieHard batteries are there for you when you need them most. They can handle extremes. And they're packed with the power today's vehicles need to perform.
How long do Duralast car batteries last? ›How long do Duralast batteries last? If you are looking to buy a Duralast battery, you probably wonder if Duralast batteries are any good. Duralast Gold and Platinum batteries are, in fact, excellent and last between three to five years. The regular Duralast battery lasts between two to three years.
Which battery has the shortest lifespan? ›...
How long should batteries last?
| Chemistry | Shelf Life | Cycle Life |
|---|---|---|
| Lithium Non-Rechargeable | 10-12 Years | None |
| Nickel Cadmium | 1.5-3 Years | 1,000 + |
| Nickel Metal Hydride | 3-5 Years | 700-1,000 |
| Lithium Rechargeable | 2-4 Years | 600-1,000 |
In general, the more chemicals a battery has that can change into other chemicals, the longer it lasts, and this is partly what explains why alkaline batteries have a slight chemical advantage over their non-alkaline counterparts.
Is there a quality difference in car batteries? ›Are all car batteries the same? In brief, they are not. There are some similarities between them, but there are enough differences that you often cannot use the same battery across multiple vehicle platforms. Indeed, battery tray sizes vary, and so do the types of 12-volt batteries that go into different vehicles.
How do I know when my car battery needs replacing? ›- The Engine Is Slow to Turn Over. ...
- The Dashboard Lights Flicker. ...
- The Windows Roll Slowly. ...
- The Headlights Go Dim When Idling. ...
- Corrosion is Present. ...
- Your Battery is Old. ...
- Conclusion.
Are Walmart Brand Vehicle Batteries Good Quality? Additionally, EverStart batteries are priced well against the competition. With convenient locations, battery fitting, and an excellent return and warranty policy, Walmart batteries may be a perfect choice for many different types of car owners.
Which batteries last 10 years? ›Frequently Asked Questions About Batteries
Energizer MAX® AA, AAA, C, and D cells last up to 10 years in storage, while our 9V lasts up to 5 years in storage. Energizer® EcoAdvanced® AA and AAA last up to 12 years in storage.
Some cars will get up to five or six years out of their battery, while others will need a new one after only two years. In general, your car will usually need a new battery after three to four years. Replacing your car battery is another part of routine maintenance.
Is there a car battery that last 10 years? ›
Lithium ion batteries: An electric car like Tesla Model S uses lithium ion batteries with a fairly long lifespan. EV batteries like lithium ion batteries often have a 5-8 year warranty on them but are expected to last 10-20 years.
What's the difference between DieHard red and silver? ›DieHard Silver Batteries provide reliable starting power in all climates and meet your vehicle's power and reserve capacity for a quick start every time. DieHard Red Batteries provides reliable starting power at an affordable price and are maintenance-free.
What company makes DieHard batteries? ›Introduced in 1967, Sears designed the DieHard to produce 35 percent more usable starting power than other similar batteries.
Do DieHard batteries have a lifetime warranty? ›All DieHard batteries come with a free replacement warranty ranging from two to four years. The warranty term varies based on the type of battery you select. Plus, all DieHard batteries installed by our skilled technicians are covered (up to $125) by DieHard Assurance for 24 months/24,000 miles.
Which DieHard is the best? ›- #1. Die Hard (1988) 94% #1. ...
- #2. Live Free or Die Hard (2007) 82% #2. ...
- #3. Die Hard 2 (1990) 70% #3. ...
- #4. Die Hard With a Vengeance (1995) 58% #4. ...
- #5. A Good Day to Die Hard (2013) 15% #5.
While Die Hard wasn't a direct sequel to The Detective and the character name differed, the role of John McClane had to be offered to Sinatra anyway because it was a (loose) adaptation of The Detective's sequel novel. Sinatra declined the role, but it's not like the producers then went straight to Bruce Willis.
Who makes Walmart batteries? ›Walmart has worked with East Penn Manufacturing for a long time, and the manufacturer may be the most well-known company that makes Walmart batteries. Lastly, Exide manufactures Walmart EverStart batteries. Exide is an Indian company that is one of the world's largest lead-acid battery manufacturers.
What's the difference between cheap and expensive car batteries? ›Buying a cheaper battery is a very tempting option to get you back on the road with minimum expense. However, cheaper batteries are often made using lower grade components such as cheap cables, wires, metals and electrolytes. These components wear out much quicker than higher quality batteries.
Which battery are better? ›Lithium, an exceptionally light metal, gives lithium batteries the highest energy density of any battery cell. Thus, they can store more energy than alkaline batteries or any single-use battery of a comparable size. And they are superb performers in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
Does it matter what car battery brand you use? ›No. Car batteries differ in multiple ways to work with different vehicle's specifications, and they are generally year, make, model-specific. Many car batteries do have one important similarity in how they work.
Is it OK to mix battery brands? ›
Q: Can you mix different brands of batteries? A: As chemistries and voltage vary across both battery types and brands, we recommend that you do not mix batteries. Mixing of cells can result in battery leakage and sub-optimal device performance.
Why should you not mix new and old batteries? ›If such different batteries are used the difference in electrical capacity will grow during usage which could eventually cause one of the batteries to over discharge, leak and even explode. Never use old and new batteries together, as this may cause leakage or worse.
Are more expensive batteries better? ›If you buy the cheaper batteries, you're paying a little bit now and then you'll pay a little bit later. It's thinking more short-term. If you buy the more expensive batteries, you pay more up front but they last longer. In the end, there's not that big a difference – it's the same amount of energy per price.
Which is the largest selling automotive battery brand? ›- Exide. Founded in 1947, Exide Industries Limited is the largest producer of automotive batteries and industrial lead acid batteries in India and the only company which offers submarine batteries to Indian Navy. ...
- ACDelco. ...
- DieHard. ...
- Amaron. ...
- Optima. ...
- Odyssey. ...
- Tata Green. ...
- NAPA.
Depending on power, size, and quality, prices for a replacement car battery range from about $45 to $250. Your local dealership, auto parts store or automotive service center can check your current battery or hook you up with a new car battery.
What is the rating of Duralast battery? ›4.8 out of 5 stars. Read reviews for average rating value is 4.8 of 5.
How many times should a car battery be replaced? ›Service experts estimate that you should replace your car battery every four to five years.
What is the warranty on a Duralast battery from AutoZone? ›| Battery Type | Battery | AutoZone Warranty Length |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | Duralast | 2 years |
| Automotive | Optima Yellow/Red Top | 2 to 3 years |
| Automotive | Duralast Gold | 3 years |
| Automotive | Platinum | 3 years |
Valucraft, Duralast, and Duralast Gold are AutoZone's private label brands for lead-acid automotive batteries (manufactured primarily by Johnson Controls, but also East Penn, Exide, and other manufacturers).
How long does Duralast battery last? ›How long do Duralast batteries last? If you are looking to buy a Duralast battery, you probably wonder if Duralast batteries are any good. Duralast Gold and Platinum batteries are, in fact, excellent and last between three to five years. The regular Duralast battery lasts between two to three years.
Which battery is best for long use? ›
Lithium: Lithium batteries work even better than alkalines. They last much longer, have an epic shelf life, don't discharge as much power when not in use and can cope with extreme temperatures.
Which battery is best for long term? ›Lithium, an exceptionally light metal, gives lithium batteries the highest energy density of any battery cell. Thus, they can store more energy than alkaline batteries or any single-use battery of a comparable size. And they are superb performers in extreme temperatures, both hot and cold.
Is Duralast made in USA? ›Made in the USA from Recycled Materials - With DURALAST, you are eligible to earn LEED® points in the Materials and Resources category. Cast iron is an environmentally responsible product that is completely recyclable after its useful life.
How long is the Duralast warranty? ›They are backed by a nationwide 3-year free replacement warranty, making Duralast Gold the ideal choice for people that are looking for reliable heavy-duty performance.
What shortens car battery life? ›Factors that can shorten its life include an extended period of partial or full discharge, vibration from not being properly secured, under- or overcharging, extreme temperatures, water loss, electrolyte contamination and corrosion on terminals.
How long do AutoZone car batteries last? ›Most batteries last 3-4 years on average, although some do last longer. If you're having a problem, use the articles below to help identify the issue, select a replacement, and install your new battery.
Who is the number one battery? ›1. Exide Industries Ltd. Exide Industries ltd is India's largest selling battery company.