The Comprehensive Guide to Buying Car Batteries: What Target and Other Retailers Offer

If you‘re like most American car owners, at some point you‘ll need to replace your vehicle‘s battery. According to a 2019 report by IBISWorld, the car battery market is worth $4 billion annually, with over 100 million replacement batteries sold each year.

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One of the first places many consumers think to buy a car battery is Target, known for its wide product selection and convenient locations. But does Target actually sell car batteries? And if not, where are the best places to get one?

In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about buying a car battery, whether you‘re a savvy shopper looking for the best deal or a first-timer unsure where to start. Let‘s dive in!

Does Target Sell Car Batteries?

The short answer is no, Target does not sell standard lead-acid car batteries. While the retail giant offers a wide range of automotive products like motor oil, anti-freeze, windshield wipers, and more, car batteries are one notable exception.

So why doesn‘t Target stock this essential item that most drivers will need to purchase every few years? There are a few key reasons:

  1. Lack of auto services – Unlike competitors such as Walmart, Costco, and some auto parts stores, Target does not have Auto Care Centers that offer battery testing, charging, and installation. Without this service component, it‘s less viable for Target to dedicate shelf space to bulky, hazardous items like batteries.

  2. Profit margins – Car batteries are expensive to ship and store due to their size and weight. They also have lower profit margins than many of the other products Target sells. By choosing not to sell car batteries, Target can focus on higher-margin items.

  3. Liability concerns – Car batteries contain corrosive acids and other hazardous materials. If not stored, handled, and installed properly, they can pose safety risks. By not selling batteries, Target minimizes its liability exposure.

  4. Partnership priorities – Rather than trying to compete in the complex and specialized battery market, Target has chosen to focus on partnerships with other brands and services in the automotive space. For example, Target now offers same-day delivery via Shipt for automotive products in select markets.

However, while Target may not be the place to buy a new car battery, it does sell some complementary products that can help you maintain your current battery, like chargers and jump starters (more on those later).

Top Places to Buy a Car Battery

So if Target is out, where should you go to buy a car battery? Here are some of the best retailers to consider, based on selection, price, convenience, and overall shopping experience:

  1. Walmart – With over 2,500 Auto Care Centers nationwide, Walmart is the most popular place to buy car batteries in the US. They sell a wide range of brands like EverStart, Optima, and ACDelco at very competitive prices. Walmart installs batteries for free with purchase and offers free charging and engine diagnostic testing. Prices start at just $50 for a basic lead-acid battery.

  2. Advance Auto Parts – As one of the largest auto parts retailers in the country with over 4,600 locations, Advance Auto Parts is another top choice. They carry leading battery brands like DieHard, Optima, and AutoCraft with prices starting around $100. Advance offers free battery testing and installation at most locations, plus helpful guides and tips on their website.

  3. AutoZone – Another ubiquitous auto parts store, AutoZone has over 6,400 locations across the US. They offer a wide selection of car batteries at competitive prices, starting under $100 for economy models. AutoZone provides free battery testing, charging, and installation with purchase, plus recycling of old batteries. Their website also has a handy battery finder tool.

  4. NAPA Auto Parts – With a large network of over 6,000 stores and 17,000 certified service centers, NAPA is another leading auto parts retailer to consider for your battery needs. They sell quality brands like AC Delco, Optima, and their own NAPA Legend at mid-range prices around $120-$150. NAPA offers free battery testing and installation at most locations.

  5. Costco – If you have a Costco membership, the wholesale club is worth checking out for car batteries. They sell a limited selection of high-performance batteries from Interstate and Kirkland Signature, with prices ranging from $90-$130. Costco offers an industry-leading 36-month warranty and free installation for most batteries. However, not all locations have tire and battery centers, so check ahead.

  6. Local repair shops – Depending on your area, your local independent auto repair shop or service center may also be a good place to buy a car battery. They can recommend the best option for your specific vehicle and offer professional installation. Prices and selection may vary.

  7. Online retailers – If you‘re comfortable installing a car battery yourself, you can purchase them from online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Batteries Plus. Online selection is extensive and prices are often lower than brick and mortar stores. However, you‘ll likely pay more for shipping due to the weight, and won‘t have the benefit of in-person guidance.

Here‘s a quick comparison of car battery specs and prices at the top retailers:

Retailer Economy Mid-grade Premium Free Install?
Walmart $50-80 $100-120 $150-230 Yes
Advance Auto $90-110 $130-150 $180-250 Yes
AutoZone $80-100 $120-140 $150-250 Yes
NAPA $90-120 $130-150 $160-280 Yes
Costco n/a $90-120 $130-150 Yes

As you can see, prices for car batteries vary significantly by retailer and quality tier. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300+ for a car battery, depending on the brand, specs, and where you buy it.

How to Choose the Right Car Battery

With so many brands, models, and specs available, picking the right car battery can seem overwhelming, especially if you‘re not a car expert. Here are the most important factors to consider:

  1. Group size – Car batteries are classified into group sizes that correspond to the battery‘s physical dimensions, terminal locations, and type. You need to choose a battery with the same group size as your original that will fit in your car‘s battery tray. Consult your owner‘s manual or check the label on your old battery to determine the right group size for your vehicle make and model.

  2. Cold cranking amps (CCA) – This measures the battery‘s ability to start your engine in cold temperatures. The rating refers to the number of amps a 12-volt battery can deliver at 0°F for 30 seconds while maintaining a voltage of at least 7.2 volts, according to Firestone. For most vehicles, a CCA rating between 350 and 600 is sufficient, but refer to your manual for manufacturer recommendations.

  3. Reserve capacity (RC) – This is the number of minutes a fully charged battery can deliver 25 amps at 80°F without falling below 10.5 volts. It represents your battery‘s "staying power," or how long it can run on its own without the alternator, according to NAPA. A higher RC is better, especially if you use power-hungry accessories.

  4. Battery type – There are several types of lead-acid batteries to choose from:

  • Flooded (wet cell) batteries are the most common and affordable. They require regular maintenance like adding distilled water.
  • Absorbed glass mat (AGM) batteries are spill-proof and maintenance-free. They charge faster and last longer than flooded, but cost 2-3x more.
  • Gel cell batteries have a thick, jelly-like electrolyte. They‘re leak-proof and vibration-resistant, but very sensitive to overcharging.

  1. Manufacturing date – Look for the freshest battery possible. Each battery has a shipping code with a letter for the month (A=January) and a number for the year (1=2021). For example, D2 means the battery was made in April 2022. Try not to buy a battery more than 6 months old as it will have a shorter lifespan.

  2. Warranty – Check the battery‘s warranty coverage to see how long it‘s guaranteed to last. Most have at least a 1-year free replacement period, but some premium models offer 2-4 years. Be sure to save your receipt!

  3. Brand reputation – While there are many reputable battery brands out there, some consistently rise to the top in independent testing and customer reviews. Consumer Reports recommends AGM batteries from these top brands:

  • Optima RedTop (score: 87/100)
  • DieHard Advanced Gold (84/100)
  • AC Delco Advantage (81/100)
  • Odyssey Performance Series (76/100)

Once you‘ve determined the right size and type of battery for your vehicle, I recommend checking prices and availability from at least 2-3 major retailers in your area or online. Read customer reviews, compare warranty details, and don‘t hesitate to ask a store associate or mechanic for advice if needed.

Signs You Need a New Car Battery

On average, car batteries last 3-5 years, but driving habits, climate, and maintenance can all affect lifespan. Here are telltale signs it‘s time for a replacement:

  • Slow engine crank or clicking when you turn the key
  • Dim headlights or interior lights
  • Illuminated battery warning light on dash
  • Swelling or bloating battery case
  • Rotten egg smell (sign of leaking battery acid)
  • Corrosion on battery terminals
  • Battery is past its expiration date

If you notice any of these symptoms, have your battery tested ASAP and replace it if needed to avoid getting stranded!

Tips for Maximizing Battery Life

With proper care, you can extend the life of your car battery and save money in the long run. Here are some expert tips:

  • Keep it charged. Aim to drive your car for at least 30 minutes per week. If you don‘t drive often, use a battery maintainer to prevent self-discharge.

  • Stay on top of maintenance. Check battery terminals monthly and clean any corrosion with a wire brush or battery cleaning tool. If you have a non-sealed battery, check electrolyte levels and top off with distilled water as needed.

  • Avoid extreme temperatures. Heat speeds up battery decay while cold slows down chemical reactions. If possible, park in a garage or carport to protect your battery from the elements.

  • Minimize parasitic drains. Unplug accessories and turn off lights when not in use. Consider upgrading to LED lights which draw less power.

  • Don‘t over or undercharge. Avoid frequent short trips that don‘t allow your battery to fully recharge. If using a charger, keep voltage at 12.6-12.8V.

  • Test annually. Have your mechanic run a battery load test at least once per year after 3 years. They can tell you if your battery is losing its ability to hold a charge.

Target Does Have Battery Accessories

While Target doesn‘t sell standard car batteries, they do have several products that can help you maintain and monitor your battery‘s health:

So while you can‘t get a new car battery at Target, you can pick up some handy accessories to care for the one you have!

Key Takeaways

To recap, here are the most important things to know about buying a car battery:

  1. Target does not sell standard lead-acid car batteries, likely due to liability, profit margin, and lack of auto services. However, they do sell some battery accessories like chargers and terminal cleaners.

  2. The best places to buy a car battery are Walmart, Advance Auto Parts, AutoZone, NAPA, Costco, and local auto shops. These retailers offer competitive prices, wide selection, free installation, and helpful guidance.

  3. When choosing a battery, make sure it‘s the right size, type, and specs for your vehicle. Look for a reputable brand with good reviews and a strong warranty. Compare prices from multiple retailers.

  4. On average, car batteries last 3-5 years. Signs you need a new one include slow cranking, dim lights, dashboard warning light, bloating, bad smells, or visible corrosion.

  5. To extend battery life, keep it charged, avoid extreme temps, limit parasitic drains, and test annually. Clean terminals regularly and top up electrolytes if applicable.

Armed with this knowledge, you should feel confident in choosing the right car battery for your needs and budget. Don‘t let a dead battery derail your day – stay proactive and replace yours before it fails!