Never Buy This Car Battery

Never Buy This Car Battery, DIY and car repair with auto mechanic Scotty Kilmer. Optima car battery review. The worst car battery to buy. Why not to buy an Optima battery for your car or truck. Buying a car battery. Worst batteries you shouldn't buy for your car. Stay away from this battery. Car batteries explained. Car Advice. DIY car repair with Scotty Kilmer, an auto mechanic for the last 51 years.
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This is the people's automotive channel! The most honest and funniest car channel on KZbin. Never any sponsored content, just the truth about everything! Learn how to fix your car and how it works. Get a chance to show off your own car on Sundays. Or show off your own car mod on Wednesdays. Tool giveaways every Monday to help you with your own car projects. We have a new video every day! I've been an auto mechanic for the past 50 years and I'm here to share my knowledge with you.
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[@scottykilmer]

⬇️Scotty’s Top DIY Tools: 1. Bluetooth Scan Tool: amzn.to/2nfvmaD 2. Cheap Scan Tool: amzn.to/2D8Tvae 3. Basic Mechanic Tool Set: amzn.to/2tEr6Ce 4. Professional Socket Set: amzn.to/2Bzmccg 5. Ratcheting Wrench Set: amzn.to/2BQjj8A 6. No Charging Required Car Jump Starter: amzn.to/2CthnUU 7. Battery Pack Car Jump Starter: amzn.to/2nrc6qR ⬇️Scotty’s Top DIY Tools: 1. Bluetooth Scan Tool: amzn.to/2nfvmaD 2. Cheap Scan Tool: amzn.to/2D8Tvae 3. Basic Mechanic Tool Set: amzn.to/2tEr6Ce 4. Professional Socket Set: amzn.to/2Bzmccg 5. Ratcheting Wrench Set: amzn.to/2BQjj8A 6. No Charging Required Car Jump Starter: amzn.to/2CthnUU 7. Battery Pack Car Jump Starter: amzn.to/2nrc6qR 🛠Check out the tools I use and highly recommend ► goo.gl/rwYt2y 🔥Scotty Shirts and Merch ► goo.gl/pTAeca Subscribe and hit the notification bell! ► goo.gl/CFismN Scotty on Social: Facebook ► facebook.com/scottymechanic/ Instagram ► instagram.com/scotty_the_mechanic/ Twitter ► twitter.com/Scottymechanic?lang=en

[@4gauge10]

Scotty,give Deka batteries a shot,I've been buying Deka batteries for about more then 30 years and for about $100.00 bucks out-the-🚪⬅door,these batteries average about 10 years maintenance free and built under ISO-9001/9002 quality standards.(no other lead acid/gel battery mfg.does that)

[@gsjourney3054]

Okay sorry Scotty I’ll just stop buying car parts and a battery and just make them 🤪(laughing horse pic)

[@4gauge10]

By the way...Johnson Controls builds batteries for Wal-Mart,their lead acids are garbage like the Optima batteries are.

[@DustanMoore]

I live in Jackson, MS and have all my life. From what I can remember, the warranty on my batteries never extended past the original battery warranty. Are you saying they don't keep their promise once you get it replaced to warranty your purchase for the full warranty period?

[@nicholascervone4734]

You're absolutely right they are crap now I used to have one back in early 2000 I didn't have the special charger but what work for me is what I call a jump charge will you hook a regular charger up to a normal battery you hook that battery up to the Altima battery and it charges the battery it was a pain in the butt but it worked for me anyway don't know if it was efficient or fully charged the Altima battery but that battery lasted eight nine years

[@ronmcgraw7428]

Scotty is EXACTLY correct in this video! I worked at Optima Batteries for 11 years. When JCI bought us out, the first thing they did is change the chemistry of the paste and reduce the purity of the lead, the battery quality instantly declined on day one! they fired all of the Optima scientists and replaced them with their engineers and technicians from Milwaukee, as well as dismantle and dispose of the development lab. Next thing they did was start production of the Monterey Mexico plant and did tell all of us that the U.S. plant couldn't keep up with global demand and the Mexico plant would be for European sales only, (they even lied to employees and had them travel to Mexico to help set up equipment and train employees there)...and Scotty is also correct, they called us all into the lunchroom the week of thanksgiving and fired all of us wholesale... for many years after shutting down the U.S. plant, they continued to use the cases that had "Made In Aurora, Colorado, U.S.A" molded into them, (deception)... once they used up the stock of those cases, they put transparent stickers with gold text, about 1/4" diameter on them that stated "made in Mexico", very difficult to see when deciding on a purchase. I even had a representative, several years later, at a racing event manufacturers midway try to tell me that they are NOT made in Mexico, but "just south of Nacogdoches, Texas!), there are many technical reasons the Mexico manufactured batteries are much much much less quality, mostly revolving around the quality and availability of the raw materials, (ie, using carbon based lubrication oil for making grid)... It was a dirty deed that Johnson Controls did, not only to their employees, (some who had 25+ years), as well as the consumers. Gates invented and developed the technology and split the battery tech up 3 ways when spinning them off... Optima, Hawker, and Enersys-(Odyssey). (one is no longer made in the U.S.) Thank you Scotty for keeping people informed of the corporate scams abound!

[@pn2543]

sad story of Wall Street mergers and acquisitions sacrificing the soul of a company, many such cases, alas

[@phyde1885]

1rst i want to say how sorry I am for the loss of "ALL" the jobs that have come from this travesty!! Everyone involved should stand for Treason ! I won't buy Interstate Batteries, cause they denied a new battery i had, with the plug on the back of a side post, popped loose and the electrical grease contaminated the cell. I was PISSED !! I turned the screw by HAND !! Just to get it lubed up,and it popped. This NEVER happens to other batteries !! SCREW U Interstate !!!

[@cconnon1912]

Scotty what you should’ve said is where the AutoZone batteries are made. Being made in the US or foreign countries isn’t necessarily some thing I consider anymore. it is not telling of the quality any longer. my Harley Davidson batteries made in China.

[@phyde1885]

@@cconnon1912 That's the problem,Made in China Batteries. I have went through 3 successive Batteries on my 4 wheeler,Every Year,and 1 was an Interstate ! The DAM warranty for Cycle Batts is 30 days ! HORSE$#!T ! I get 1 season out of them,then they are shot ! I started taking it out of the wheeler last season into the house for winter,i got this year out of it too. But i don't think it will have enough Balls left for 2013 fall Season. I have been doing this with my Yard Mower too now. Batteries made today aren't like yesteryears,that's for DAM SURE !!

[@MrJames6891]

F that company

[@smithraymond09029]

Scotty Kilmer: Part mechanic, part history professor, part science lecturer, ...full time awesome guy!

[@Zefinfer]

indeed!

[@mrradio2187]

Scotty has changed my life! Thank you Mr Kilmer!

[@iMernerner]

and Full time Sunglasses Wearing Man

[@glenhousley9786]

YES SIR

[@yoy58913]

@@iMernerner not to mention his hands moving everywhere.

[@dougnbodie]

I just love the fact that Scotty always sounds like he just drank a few pints before he does his videos...

[@aygwm]

More like sn0rted a few lines

[@disciple7911]

@@aygwm 😂😂

[@sebastienbechard798]

He probably did…

[@Kreed101]

Whose to say he's didn't.......lol

[@choppablood2394]

Ion blame him

[@boomerguy9935]

I found this out the hard way. They are expensive and used to have a fantastic reputation, so I bought one. For 6 months, I could not get it to keep a charge and finally turned it back in to the auto parts store for a full refund. That's when I started researching Optima. Optima was great until it changed ownership. As usual, Scotty is right!!!!!!

[@lukago677]

Just when I’m about to buy something “Alert from scotty” ........Slowly put money back into my pockets

[@bluefrog8670]

He does it to me AFTER I buy stuff! 😡

[@allanwagner4570]

Yeah me too Was just gonna buy two of them today glad I watched Scotty 😎

[@joebiker5992]

Scotty is absolutely right on this one. I owned an old yellow top for years. I've told people to go get em. The few that did were very disappointed. One of them replaced theirs within the first year.

[@hybridamericandude3575]

Ha! You got that right. I’m sliding my money back in right now.

[@taylorgarza4539]

I was about to buy 2 before this

[@patrickstar1439]

Got stranded in a blizzard ,with a year old red top. Brought a batt from crap mart the next day and lasted 8 years.

[@theDanK814]

I had a cheap auto craft that lasted that long. As long as you don't have parasitic drains and good charging system there is no reason a cheapo can't last that long.

[@bogonzales672]

Optima Batteries hate you Scotty!! F' em!!! Hehehe!

[@austin5806]

ive had oe honda batteries, interstate megatron batteries, and walmart batteries, the walmarts lasted the longest.

[@mainoffender1]

Mine lasted 8 1/2. Strangely enough, the original lasted about the same, but when it was time for the replacement, the clamps where trash. Until I have a failure, the redtop is for me.

[@peppino5413]

Too many impurities in the lead so they barely last three years. I got burned buying one. No warranty for replacement available. You are 100% correct Scotty. Well done mate.

[@joenino3]

Scotty's arms aren't even having the same conversation

[@husky2117]

😂

[@traceytaggart1740]

And Scotty sums up what most companies did to American workers and consumers in the late 90s/early 2000s.

[@clevelandmortician3887]

High corporate taxes and a high union labor rate pushed many companies overseas. Thanx libs

[@jimbo5635]

This why Trump won. Liberals have there selves to blame.

[@kamand05]

Jim Bo both parties pushed for the free trade agreements that allowed the companies to gut their American workforce because both parties were (and still are) beholden to their corporate lobbyists.

[@jimbo5635]

@@kamand05 I don't consider Trump part of the political establishment that sold out the workers, but you're correct both parties are to blame

[@garykentner7557]

A result of NAFTA and greed. The new ones are a waist of money. I have an old one on a tractor and it's worked flawlessly for 20 yrs. It's a 6 volt.

[@woohunter1]

Optima used to be expensive, but worth every penny. I've been hearing about this for a couple of years now, they deserve to go belly up.

[@jenh9426]

JCI sold the batter divison to a private equity firm, and are now known as Clarios.

[@delightfulsunny]

Johnson Controls is a hundred years old company.. unlikely to go belly up anytime soon.

[@user-bg2oi4bz3p]

Tax inversion is tax evasion. No loyalty to the US. These are Globalists. Johnson Controls International plc is a multinational conglomerate headquartered in Cork, Ireland. The company was formed via the merger of American company Johnson Controls with Tyco International, announced on January 25, 2016. The merger led to the avoidance of U.S. taxes on its foreign market operations and a financial windfall for the CEO of Johnson Controls at that time, Alex Molinaroli.[7][8] As of November 2018, Johnson Control's tax inversion to Ireland is the 3rd largest U.S. tax inversion in history.

[@Cotronixco]

If those arms were wings, Scotty would be in the sky with diamonds.

[@skylined5534]

The Duke Brothers could have done with him on a few occasions.

[@johnbellas7855]

Hahaha he talks with his hands like mechanics normally do.

[@gusswilder6418]

I bought three of the old ones that I was happy with. Fortunately my honest independent dealer warned me that he was getting too many returns on the new ones. It's really sad to see a good company bought out only to go downhill.

[@rahbaralhaq]

Optima: *Moves factory to Mexico* Scotty: *I'm about to end this company's whole career.*

[@luisv8413]

Still like the battery but agree it's not right leaving the company from the u.s .

[@kendrickdelosreyes5381]

What career?... What career???

[@larrygrogan4408]

Lol Optima are way ahead of him on that

[@campkira]

It suck... Badly

[@johnwang9914]

What they screw up with these moves to Mexico aside from pissing everyone off is that they screw up quality management which is why they produce crap. The Mexicans I've encountered in the States are good workers but only if I'm around, as soon as I leave they only use two screws instead of four etc. The remote support group would bring in their workers for me to show how to wire up a system and they were supposed to label all the cables for the field. Needless to say, a problem would occur out in the field, it was Venezuela at the time, the problem would get escalated across the departments to me, it would take two days of crossing jungle to get to the site and guess what, no labels and one cable plugged in that shouldn't have been plugged in at all. In Mexico City, I found the workers trying to use washers to install networking equipment at an angle to the rack. When I asked why, they said the front wasn't flat, I pointed out that the front was a cosmetic curve because the name of the network switch was Procurve. I also found them mounting the disk subsystems upside down cause they thought it looked nicer that way. You just can't leave them alone for a second if you want quality work, it's not that they aren't trying, it's because they have a very different perspective.

[@SteverRob]

Johnson Controls should be ashamed. But I bet they're not

[@Don.Challenger]

They got the bonus so not so worried . . .

[@16B9]

Their real name must be Johnsonstein Controls.

[@Davido50]

Johnson Controls makes OEM batteries for a dozen carmakers. They are built to different standards I guess.

[@jenh9426]

Johnson Controls sold the Battery Division to a private equity firm recently and the Battery division is now known as Clarios. This is what large corporate america does... ships the mfg to lower cost countries, now they are working on moving the admin/office staff to lower cost countries. Johnson Controls did that with their accounting staff, moved it to Slovakia. That worked so well(not) they moved that to Mexico. Many customers were NOT HAPPY. The battery division makes a LOT of the lead acid batteries that are sold today-just a different sticker on them.

[@k9er233]

@@jenh9426 Do you happen to know which "branded" batteries are made by Johnson Controls now, so we can all avoid them? A company that treats their employees and customers like this needs to be outed and we need to stop supporting them, especially when they sell under other names to avoid being caught out.

[@tufftimesbc]

You nailed it! I replaced two optima batteries from 2007 in 2018. The two year old batteries are now giving me grief. Keep up the great work Scotty!

[@julianoliva2850]

So tufftimesbc do u switch to another battery. what brand ?

[@shurashadow]

Glad I went with a Super start extreme battery almost bought an Optima, I had a super start premium for 5 years never had an issue oreilys batteries are pretty solid.

[@zmartkooky244]

Hey! From Mexico over here! I am with you! Companies dumping employees just because they are cheaper elsewhere is bad enough for me no to buy there. But if quality drops too, ef it.

[@Shwalker07]

I bought one in 2008 for around $180 back then for my daily driver. It only lasted 1.5 years and I would never buy one again.

[@alfredocatano1023]

Mine lasted 8 mo

[@alfredocatano1023]

@B Pr mine was a redtop and it was manufactured the same month i bought it. I have since switch to northstar batterys have over 3 yrs on it and works like new. Plus its made in usa

[@duttydiesel8303]

@B Pr - Yes trickle charger... Also might want to check if still stable.. most batteries don't survive car accident... That's why I used to run the red top in my derby cars... I don't know if the yellow top is designed similarly. However the yellow tops are designed to sit discharged, and be recharged after sitting discharged... That's why I used to use the yellow tops for my storage on my generator.

[@dennissmith9577]

I have a red top bought in early 2001. Made at their old factory in Colorado. Still going 18 years later!

[@JohnG1000]

I bought 2 in 2010 and one is still going. The second one just gave out last month it lasted exactly 9 years to the month .

[@dennissmith9577]

Have a USA made Optima Redtop from April 2001 still going strong.

[@wollsmoth69]

Dennis Smith I’m gonna guess you don’t live in Arizona then.

[@ivanarrache5154]

The last time this guy fill his gas tank, the Spice Girls where popular.

[@jhudson1977]

My red top as well. It's on its 4th car. Must have gotten the tail end of quality.

[@jonsmith919]

I believe that

[@jdsrcs8061]

Same here mine is 17 years now, and still works fine

[@bryanbryant9962]

My last two Optima Red Tops lasted 13 and 14 years. When I replaced them earlier this year (2020) I automatically bought Red Tops again. I am seeing this episode a few months after already purchasing the two Red Tops. It will be interesting to see how these recent Optimas compare to the previous generation.

[@bennett4881]

I bought mine Jan. 15, 2019 and now it is Jun. 25, 2021 and the battery is done for. Yesterday morning going to work, it was dead and needed to be jumped. Went to work, later that evening, died again. Lasted exactly 2.5 years.

[@dailylife3975]

I bought my first yellow top Optima in 94 or 95 and it lasted 12 years best battery I ever owned 12 to 14 years it was a deep cycle

[@brandonmx1139]

@@bennett4881 well one big factor in that is you can’t just jump start a optima with a traditional car battery it has to be jumped by another optima to prevent damage

[@bennett4881]

@@brandonmx1139 no brandon, no excuses from you here. The optimas are absolute junk now, not what they used to be. They got "offshored" by america, you familiar with that term? USA no longer makes them and trust me you don't want your name on to be on the advocacy of them now. Just give them up, they're gone now.

[@PNoblesGarage]

Any update as to how your battery is?

[@nephetula]

The raised prices are likely due to the vast increase in warranty claims.

[@mikee2923]

No. Corporate greed.

[@WontSeeReplies]

Shutdown lead refineries.

[@SalmanRavoof]

Maybe because they also control more than half the battery market too.

[@Tiagotaf]

Scotty, every time I watch your videos, I remember that scene from "A FEW GOOD MEN": You want the truth????!!!! YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH!!

[@pedrotalavera3541]

Hahaha. And it is true. Many of us can't

[@TexasScout]

The first Optima battery guy bought lasted almost 10 years. The second and third I was lucky to get a year out of

[@mikeruizxd5534]

Yup

[@biguprise2550]

Spot on buddy !!!!!

[@biguprise2550]

@@Sta_up hey buddy you found a good quality battery cheers!!!!

[@kylemlm]

Bought two blue tops for my boat in 2001 and both lasted 16 years.

[@biguprise2550]

@@kylemlm Got a yellow top for my 96 ss impala race car in 2007 lasted to 2015 after that 3 more dead bad batteries from you-know-who AutoZone 96 ss she going strong cheers!!!

[@danielhislop3051]

I started going through Optima batteries quickly at that time! No wonder! Thanks for the explanation, Scotty.

[@jenhart1779]

Thanks Scotty !! I’ve watched more of your videos than anyone else’s. I wish you the best.👍

[@Matticus289]

Overpriced and low quality? Are you sure this isn't an Apple product?

[@RynardMooreVstar1]

Seems like Apple took some pointers from Optima. LOL.

[@mackey-5438]

Move production to Mexico and raise their prices...Hmm, sounds a lot like General Motors.

[@RestrictedHades]

Mackey - if they didn’t everyone would complain about Chevy making $100k trucks

[@imthefrog9725]

We got an android user in the house

[@bigilworth]

interesting. my iPad still going strong after 6 years and my macbook pro still strong and fast after 5 years. No crapware, malware, and slick, thin design. Good luck finding that with your lame windows computers

[@wtcb7892]

I get interstate batteries from Costco, never been disappointed in 10 years. Also best return and replace warranty that I never had to use.

[@bruceh3786]

I am not sure what Costco is selling right now, but previously many of there Interstate batteries were Johnson Control batteries made in Mexico. After several premature failures, I quit buying them. Instate is a label company, they have the batteries made by other companies, such as Johnson Control, and then put the Interstate label on them. Whatever company that may have been making an Interstate labeled battery five years ago may not be making it for them today. I avoid batteries made in Mexico due to poor experiences with them and the likelihood that it is a Johnson Control battery.

[@wtcb7892]

Your milage may vary.

[@crunch9876]

Bruce H but cosco honors there warranty. No one else does

[@OllamhDrab]

@@crunch9876 I dunno, Autozone always did. At some point I ran afoul of some fairly-short-lived quality control issues in their otherwise well-reputed 'gold' batteries, and I must have gotten three new ones under warranty, ...(and the third went bad just after, so instead of buying another I got a pretty not-Interstate-looking Interstate one (just a name on the sticker) on sale that's ...actually been good for at least a few years, now. Anyway, knowing some of the managers at the local Autozone I did find out they got rid of that wonky supplier and it's been fine again since they cleared out all that bad stock, according to my friends and various customer types that got to be the guinea pigs. :)

[@CohnWolfeFitness]

My interstate battery in my bmw has lasted 13 years. Finally replacing it with another one from costco :)

[@zjelkof]

Very helpful, Scotty! I've had one for a couple of years in my C6, and have nothing but problems.

[@flashh112362]

red top is literally the best battery I ever owned. lasted me 4 years. twice as long as other brands I get from oreillys or autozone.

[@mitube4u]

This is the answer I was looking for because the batteries I seem to only last about 2 years or so.

[@DareToBeDeviant]

It brought my (1999) Eclipse back to life after I spent all fall/winter/spring thinking about why it needs to be jumped or having metal jammed into the terminal to start. Bad wires? Alternator? Fuse? One Red Top swap later ~ VROOM. In the past 7 years the car ate 3 batteries and barely kept a charge. This held up all summer and now has to be put away for the cold months. :(

[@patrickr9606]

Scotty....you need some Hand Puppets!!! Your animated explanations are one of the best parts of your videos!!

[@alecbaldwinsnotpropgun]

Beto hands

[@JDMHaze]

Patrick R lmaoo

[@patrickr9606]

Ryder McGrath ... No... Scotty's hand waving makes sense...Beto is just mental!!

[@strivingformindfulness2356]

Patrick R He's the Joe Pesci of auto mechanics. 👍🏻

[@truthhurts467]

LOL it's funny he must have went to a speech seminar that's one of the first things they tell you when you're talking to a crowd do something with your hands grab their attention don't just stand there like a bump on a log LOL I like it tho got to keep it up! Put a car puppet on one hand and whatever subject you're doing for the day will be on the other LOL hahaha have a good one

[@TheGregWallace]

Keep giving them Hell Scotty! I'm with you!

[@jamesonm.7925]

Thank you for saving me a headache. My choice was down to this and a Duralast Platinum. Chose a CPO 2017 Nissan Frontier mainly because of you. I hit that subscribe button. Many thanks Scotty.

[@nikosames1715]

Another great video! You steered me on the right path Scotty after planning to get an AGM. Seems like several years ago when the Optimas were made in the States they were much more reliable, but after researching, that has changed drastically. I’m going to get a traditional flooded lead battery at Costco for 1/4 the price of AGM. Maybe a POe4 batt down the road when prices drop.

[@cconnon1912]

AGM batteries from Batteries Plus have served me well. 5 year warranty and lasted me 4.5 years. Got new one. That one lasted me over five years. It did not have replacement warranty. So I got nine years for about $250. they are about $320ish now. AutoZone batteries are a good value but I have not gotten that kind of longevity.

[@bigvan706]

Everstart Maxx 5 year warranty. Bought one in 2012 , and still going strong. $114.00

[@connorbunch3577]

Everstart is the way to go man

[@robertgabrielle5956]

Made by exide

[@timmturner]

@@robertgabrielle5956 Exide is made by Johnson Control, the same company Scotty is taking about making Optima.

[@johnmead9012]

I was a victim of the Optima battery craze. It took a dump on me twice, replaced twice in 1 year. Learned my lesson

[@JHM406]

I have one I bought in 2008 and one from 2014. Both made in Mexico. Still work to this day. I recommend them to everyone.

[@COlson-rh3dg]

I recommend they send your job to another country.

[@phyde1885]

@@COlson-rh3dg Touché ! 😎

[@T4RSR5]

@@COlson-rh3dg Where was your MAGA hat, made?

[@patfromjersey]

Scott is right on this one. I bought optimas in 2006, and they lasted 13 years, until they just couldn't take a charge, and I bought the Optima Charger just for these. I bought another set in 2012, and they lasted only 5 years. I switched over to Extreme Odyssey AGM batteries in my 32 Ford, and it can finally start right away when the engine is hot. The 2012 Optimas, even though the optima charger said they were charged, could not turn over my 521 cubed coupe when hot.

[@denault3985]

Totally agreed, my brother bought a Optima battery for his Prius and it lasted a year and they did stand behind it! So far no problem with his much-cheaper Delco!

[@cancel1913]

I went thru three of them before I reached the same conclusion Scotty.

[@joesphmarzella1936]

Once again Scotty hit the main on the head. 👍 A couple years back I worked for Auto Zone and I had heard exactly what Scotty said, these batteries were Not what they used to be and now I know why. Thanks Scotty for the explanation is to why! 👍

[@todtalk3912]

The manufacturer (CLARIOS) that makes DURALAST batteries makes OPTIMA batteries, which is why optima doesn't compete with their gold or silver line but does compete with the agm "platinum" batteries and such the agm batteries are the same price as the optima batteries. so buy which ever you can get for a deal. In my circumstance i live in cold climate they dont make a duralast for my car but there's an optima to fit it, so i got that. I got it for 180 out the door but that was using my buddies commercial account (itd of been 245 otherwise) and thats after the 22 dollar core refund. Point is, get what you need they're all made by the same big monopoly of a business anyway no matter which store you go to or what color the box is lol.

[@jarrettm3728]

Just had my battery die what should i get if not a optima??

[@todtalk3912]

@@jarrettm3728 if the price is right, absolutely get an otpima, however. If ur going that route the better buy (because its the same buy)would be the platinum battery at advanced or whatever comparable level to optima n usually about 50 bucks cheaper. Also, make sure you price it online, never go in there and buy an expensive part without checking the price online. You will be had by at least 50 bucks more than you should be paying in many cases unless you have a commercial account. Otherwise, if u want agm get the biggest name brand u can, they are not all built equal ofcourse, but they will last regardless. If all you need it for is a stock vehicle that is not in severe conditions, just get whatever is the cheapest recommended. Clean the battery terminals very good, protect everything and it will be good for about a solid year or 2 before you need to even touch it again. If you see even slightly start to corrode, clean the stuff up again and make that a part of ur yearly cleaning. It will allow the battery to last the time it says it will and probably much longer. Also, if your not in the middle of nowhere, then let it go till it dies n keep the money on the side for it. You will probably find it'll last another year or more easily

[@wvjeepguy8178]

For current and future readers, the best deal in performance batteries are going to be Walmart AGM Everstart.

[@anthonyguzman7764]

I bought my optima batter in 2014 powering 2 12ij subs and now on my daily car. And just yesterday the battery finally died

[@damondziewiontkowski5623]

I had one in my car for 7 years. Bought another one expecting something similar. Man, was I surprised. The companies deserve to go under.

[@billboyle2909]

I had a red top. Worst battery i have ever owned.

[@4everyoung16]

I second that. I had one in the '90s and that one last forever. In the 2000's I got another and that lasted only 2 years.

[@soldat2516]

@D Mack Same. I had one in my GMC Jimmy about like 2007. It lasted for probably like 7-8 years. I bought a new one and I don't think it lasted 2 years. I thought I just got a bad one. Guess they are all bad now.

[@tegbwoy91]

Yep just replaced my red top 2 days ago.never again will I buy one.

[@Somizabrujas]

Who owns the same car for more than 5 years nowday? Really? Tha cars companies shall be broken in no more than 10 years if so

[@romellymell6083]

Damn, I have one in my car now 😪 it’s the second one after a year. Replaced 1st one under warranty (Yellow Top). No more after this!

[@DarcvexiS]

R II -- That sounds strange especially if its brand new I would immediately suspect the cars alternator is on it's way out. And if it is it would not matter what battery you used.

[@giovanhagar]

Use redtop for a car.

[@froy1724]

@@giovanhagar what battery would you recommend for a Cadillac with a sound system? I recently got a redtop

[@bits-and-bobs]

I love watching your videos 😜 Feels like watching stand-ups about fixing cars 😂

[@andrewweldy7508]

I am glad to have found this video of yours. I was considering buying an Optima battery as an auxiliary battery to power a bunch of electrical devices that I have and am installing onto my truck. Given what you have indicated I will avoid these and look at getting a different brand of AGM DeepCycle battery for my project.

[@navret1707]

If you tied Scotty’s hands behind his back he couldn’t say a word. Must be Italian. 🤣🤣

[@wilyceyote]

I bought an Optima battery In 2012 for my Toyota Tacoma 2001 Still works great

[@josecoss2284]

Brought one 2017 yellow top and here we are 2019 and it's still working

[@Guillotines_For_Globalists]

@@josecoss2284 You make it sound like two years for a battery is awesome.

[@davidmoore492]

and I just replaced my 2009 regular old school battery in my Hyundai, so that was ten yrs from the factory battery, and my new one is a five yr battery for 120 bucks.

[@wilyceyote]

If you have a lot of stuff that drains your battery you need a deep cycle battery That’s why I bought Yellow top

[@grahamlwilson]

My experience with Optima battery is exactly as you have described. I have had 2 in less than 2 years and both have failed before being 12 months old.

[@1godgodgodgodgod]

And you can rebuild it for 2.0 dollars and 30 minutes. Agm sucks as bad as scotty

[@NeighborhoodChamber]

Thank you Scotty. I've spent more time with you the last 3 years than anyone else. You've been a great friend. You keeping me company and teaching me everything I know about auto repair. If give you a hug to top the endless smiles you give me 4-5 days a week 4-6 hours at a time! Thank you Scotty. You are the King of auto repair instructors worldwide! - Mick Monroe

[@MichaelKouable]

OMG I was just about to go buy one tomorrow, and all of a sudden I see this video :O whow thanks a million Scotty!

[@HalfBreedMix]

Look into Batteries Plus' X2 battery.

[@horsepastetosy2587]

i have a yellow top and have been happy with it but its because of my use of phone charging etc. a regular battery is fine but in my case i would kill a regular battery.

[@towatchvids]

There are brands making much better cells with better tech and lower prices, XS Power is probably the best of the best. If you use serious amounts of power you can go lithium as well.

[@bigabescanal2799]

I personally think that costco has the best prices on batteries. Got one for under 100$ for a honda pilot. Got another battery for my accord for under 70 bucks. They have a 42 month warranty. Can't beat that. Costco has never given me any issues on warranty or returns.

[@towatchvids]

@@bigabescanal2799 Yeah if you are just talking regular daily driven cars sure, Costco or most other brands with a decent warranty is fine. Optima was once a performance brand used by racers, car audio enthusiasts, high performance boat owners etc. XS Power has basically taken over that market.

[@juangalvez8594]

I stopped buying those batteries a very long time ago !!! expensive and warranty sucks !!

[@iian_]

i recently bought one and it wasnt that much more than a more generic brand the store had. Also came with a 3 year warranty which i think is pretty good

[@independent2368]

Juan Galvez the warranty suck because they know that their junk and won't last

[@duttydiesel8303]

@@iian_ - did you finish the video? The cheap batteries I buy, come with warranty on the warranty battery!! 😎 I used to use optima until they took away their good warranty, and my last battery lasted less than 18 months! 🤬

[@iian_]

@@duttydiesel8303 well i got a 3 year warranty so i dont know what you are talking about

[@duttydiesel8303]

@@iian_ - 🤦🤦🤦 When your battery goes bad... Your warranty is on THAT battery... The REPLACEMENT battery for your original battery DOES *NOT* carry a warranty. Example... - You bought an optima battery May 2017. - Exchanged it May of 2018 due to being defective. -May of 2019, they will not give you another battery. Despite being 2 years into your QUOTED "three year warranty" Does this make more sense?? If you don't believe me that's totally fine, I'm not going to force you to believe.... You can find out the hard way just like me! 😂 Not that there is much can be done the purchase has been made

[@MCFIXIT]

Thank you for your insights on this! Very helpful!

[@johndavid4756]

So true, and this has been my experience with Optima as well.

[@martyisabeliever]

I have an Orignal Red Top in a Hot Rod that is 18 years old. No lie! Just checked Date code H1=Aug 01.

[@cesardelatorre5807]

Na you are joking??mine last 8 years

[@overtorque]

My Yellow Top lasted 10 years

[@All2Skitzd]

Yeah but new optimas suck, it's better just get a good agm

[@fredcailloux2526]

The one I got with my 2005 Liberty CRD was good enough to be used as a jump starter until I purchase a small pocket/powerplan last year! She's now sitting beside my trusty US made Associated 6002B fleet booster/charger :-)

[@406Steven]

@@All2Skitzd Odyssey is the way to go these days, spend a little extra and get a good battery!

[@Jstall7543]

I had a yellow top that was amazing, lasted 7 years. Bought two different red tops that died quick within 2 years. Its like they don't charge fast enough!

[@roscoepatternworks3471]

I've had a regular lead acid battery last 10 years in a 85 Ford ranger

[@godschild5587]

@@roscoepatternworks3471 what brand was the battery?

[@roscoepatternworks3471]

@@godschild5587 it was the original battery that was in the truck when I bought it. I bought the truck new.

[@zeroturn7091]

I’ve got a 5 year old yellow top in my Tahoe that’s near its end, and a year old yellow top in my Accord. The one in the Tahoe has taken a beating due to an aftermarket sound system. If they make it eight years that’s a good buy in my book. In the past I only got 2 years max from WalMart batteries.

[@nechoxd3208]

I love this guy. Most of his findings are usually hearsay.

[@chuckfusco9503]

Thanks for the tip I just wish it had come a week sooner I just bought one of those optimum batteries

[@Mabeylater293]

Scotty, warn your viewers against the upcoming Renault/fiat/Chrysler/Nissan merger.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I was thinking of SK when I saw that media 📰 story over the holiday weekend.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

If you see Scotty in a Fiat 🚘 with a Optima car battery you know he SOLD OUT! 😎💲💲💲...

[@romellymell6083]

I heard this on the news yesterday. Oh boi!

[@duttydiesel8303]

Warn?? I don't think it's going to be a problem.. instead of having Fiat designing crap, they have a lot more experts at the table! My guess is it will be a good change... However I'm sure if you stay tuned to Scotty will cover this!

[@bombasticbuster9340]

Nissan too??? Oh no.

[@LlyleHunter]

Scotty: Never use this battery! It will turn your Toyota into a Fiat!

[@AkiraNakamoto]

Fiao: Fix It Again, Optima.

[@nynthworld4152]

Into a FIAT. Hilarious!

[@jaya.0069]

As long as it doesn't turn my Yugo into a Fiat!

[@bigwo56]

@@jaya.0069 a Yugo IS a Fiat.. just sayin. : )

[@jaya.0069]

@@bigwo56 It was sarcasm, (just sayin)

[@ronlagrone]

I bought two of these in 2014 not realizing the corporate maneuvers that Scotty is referring to. However, they are still going strong in spite of being deeply discharged a few times while I was using them to power an amateur radio. Yes they were more expensive, and I like to buy American first, but these have been great batteries. If there is an American product that is comparable, let us know and I'll buy that when the time comes.

[@dampandrew]

I want to buy a CB radio

[@jlaustill]

Northstar batteries are better and made in america

[@petersouthernboy6327]

I recently had an Optima Dealer steer me away from Optima and towards Odyssey. Said they weren’t the same after moving manufacturing to Mexico (?).

[@eddiep812]

You're The Man! I'm in the market for a battery for the "wife-mobile". Thanks Scotty for your invaluable lesson and tips on car batteries.

[@cleverduenas]

i work for a retail auto parts store , and i can tell you i have seen the quality of these optimas go down , and they are expensive around 230$ for a battery thats only lasting a year in some cases and scotty is totally correct on the charging methods for this battery you have to put them to charge on different settings or else they wont charge i have to tell my coworkers this all the time and im always surprised that they dont know this , so if you ever take one of these battery to charge at a auto parts store make sure to tell them to put the correct settings for charging the battery because these battery do NOT charge in an hour if they tell you that they dont know what they are doing

[@blaezjamesongames4700]

Information made me glad the one I bought back in 2016 I didn't keep out of car when sold, and changed my mind on putting one in my lifetime daily project.

[@edexclusivo]

Thanks for save my money i was about to buy another one and i saw this video and I realized my previous optima battery died after 2 years and they not even want to replace it ....thanks for you honesty

[@alexjavier9383]

Red top in my sti and yellow top in my z32. 5 years later batteries are still holding up. Never failed me. Had a red top in my 4runner for 7 years. 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

[@keyholer4664]

Thats why he said "unless you have a time machine, to go back when they made them well"

[@emanuelmartinez2597]

I actually had to put a new car battery in my truck today and my Optima battery lasted over 9 years! I got my money's worth forsure.

[@James-qt9dj]

My last optima red top lasted 7 years... current yellow top since 2018. I would not have bought if i knew the history!

[@djmussy18]

take it back before 3 years get your new one, then forget about it.

[@charlieb308]

James 7 years is outstanding for a battery. Worth every penny

[@kandysman86]

@@charlieb308 no its not. 5 to 7 years is common for car batteries. Just replaced the factory battery in my 2004 Impala last year. If an Optima is only lasting 3 or for years, you are being robbed. Period.

[@EarlBalentine]

Great Video, would like to see more reviews on other batteries.

[@wwolfdogs]

The reason they're no good , according to a Johnson Controls tech I talked to years ago , is because the cells are hand wound on a special lathe. It requires a high level of skill to get the correct tension on the glass mat. If not done to exacting specs the cell will develop tiny short circuits causing premature failure of your $300 doorstop.

[@tdmorgenthaler8384]

My last Optima lasted for years.... I just replaced with a new one, we will see; did not know about this change in business practice.

[@1985toyotacamry]

I bought a 95 Camry with that battery I thought it will last sadly it last 5 months after I bought the car

[@invaderzim1265]

@@1985toyotacamry Yikes!! 😬😬😨😨

[@sporknife123]

All the optimas I've had were fine. I had one get punctured by a headlight adjustment screw in a wreck and it still worked for another year or two. Have a yellow top that's bout 6 years old. Still tests higher cca than its labeled

[@dman09191964]

@@Sta_up Same here. 2000 watts rms in a Ford Focus ST with an aftermarket 300 amp alternator with zero gauge wiring ,three years going. No problems with battery

[@dman09191964]

@@Sta_up Yes! Did the big 3(zero gauge)

[@AndyGoin]

I see lots of “DONT” videos.. can you put together some “DO” videos? Which batteries should we buy? I’m more on the positive tip is all.

[@ihatecrackhead]

I buy a trolling battery but one size bigger so it has the same cranking amps but can be ran low

[@666dynomax]

ihatecrackhead had no idea that would work!

[@ihatecrackhead]

​@@666dynomax Deep cycle batteries can charge faster. you can also charge a battery faster on cold days without damage it's always better to charge a dead battery than jump it cause your alternator could charge it too fast. 6 amp charge rate is generally safe for all car batteries except small batteries when it's hot

[@MrMarcopolo81]

Look into xs power they are the best at the moment

[@mcamodell]

Diehard AGM or Delphi AGM

[@crunkwun]

Thanks brother for the review. I owned a couple yellow tops in the past(2010-2012). Had issues with both and this explains why. Was going to buy another yellow top when my current dies but definitely will not anymore.

[@julianoliva2850]

So what brand do u buy?

[@crunkwun]

@@julianoliva2850 I've gone lithium

[@julianoliva2850]

@@crunkwun brand ? just to see if i can get one at a nice price i suppose that r very expensive

[@brianhoward9217]

GOOD ONE Scotty - very useful info here - many thanks as I'm tossing all this up right now buying either Odyssey, Optima or the Aussie, made-for-my-Aussie Falcon, 'Century' battery. Cheers from Australia - Brian.

[@timemachineeddie1146]

I have been using the Sears DieHard. They on average last in my cars 8 years, Great video and thanks for sharing. No Optima for me.

[@silverrunner8687]

Had a Sears DieHard Platinum in my FJ for 6 years. 💪🏻 Looking to put one in my 4Runner now (BCI not AGM) I read issues w AGM due to alternators not being able to fully charge the AGMs?

[@crashfields14]

I bought the redtop in the early 2000s and it lasted 8yrs and went into 3 vehicles. Went out got the same one made in Mexico and lasted less then 3yrs. No more Optima for me.

[@louf7178]

Wow. That is so extreme that it is hard to believe, but I do not doubt your testimony. Its good to hear feedback.

[@crashfields14]

@@louf7178 we live in az and the battery went when we were at Disneyland and went to autozone and the cashier was even surprised when he looked at the date on the battery. The second battery is long gone now.

[@fortunatogalluzzo2084]

Thanks Scotty for your informative video. Hopefully Optima will lift their game. I have 2 Optima Yellow Tops from 2012 & 2014. Both are still going strong but I regularly connect them to a CTek battery charger. I wonder if this has helped them last?

[@jacobelliott5351]

Most likely yea. Draining em dead is what takes en out. 3 times from my experience and theyre garbage. Have 3 over 5 years old and 1 brand new one and I'm already dealing with trying to charge it.

[@jaybee9708]

Scotty, you're a hoot. It makes my week to watch your videos. Thanks!

[@cyrparlapiano2514]

Take a look at my shirt. It says Scotty. That's me! Hahaha I love you Scotty

[@ChrisfromGeorgia]

I saw a hipster the other day with the same shirt, but his real name was really Fritz.

[@wylenmendunezz1921]

Wiper blades?! Automatic or manual transmission? Lol! Classic!

[@jr303official]

This video is so true, I have went through 4 Optima warranty claims in 4yrs. Now on my 5th swap Autozone just swapped me for the new odyssey battery and it's a huge difference, especially in my cold starts. They also come with a 4yr warranty and what I have researched odyssey has great quality and more efficient then optima.

[@kevinkarnes4067]

I totally love Scotty's videos. He tells you the straight truth. He's got great energy. And they're always entertaining too. ✌&❤

[@FineTuneCBShop]

My first one lasted about 15 years .. was extremely impressed! My second is about 3 years old, we'll see how thing go.

[@DJZander01]

I agree... I have seen a lot of issues with optima batteries not lasting. One other problem that wasn't mentioned is that these batteries sit on shelves for a long time before they are purchased because of the high price tag. Sitting for a year or more isn't good for any battery wether it's agm or standard.

[@1997camaroOrange]

I bought 4 Optima red tops for my car and kids during a sale for 30% off in 2015. It’s now 2022 and all 4 batteries still running strong. And I have a 5th one I bought back in 2009. That one is still in the car I put in and sold to neighbor. On the other hand all the other batteries over 38 years of driving never last more than 3 years even on new cars. The reason I started buying optima.

[@grntchstrmdws]

Thank you for this. You are SO generous with your time and knowledge.

[@marvindebot3264]

Generous? Have you ANY concept of how much he makes from these videos?

[@jeffanderlik7695]

The Army was sold on this technology and now that they're hooked, the factory goes to Mexico. Pure and utter bull.

[@ThePepper1981]

Air Force too

[@kevinj8258]

This is a systemic flaw to national security. Depending on other country technology to make sure our military functions.

[@Blogengezer]

@@kevinj8258 -Exactly why Trump is being crucified. By desperately trying to return control to the USA, he threatens the deep state, which is the Associated Press globalists left controlled.

[@123bigred]

Americans of Mexican descent hate that they moved the plant to Mexico. We could use the jobs in the USA🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 KEEP IT AMERICAN BABY!!

[@niq872]

my dad who came from mexico will gladly pay extra to buy stuff made in the USA especially stuff he uses for work he hates the cheap Chinese stuff

[@independent2368]

123bigred Amen brother, MAGA USA-1 🇺🇸

[@rondye9398]

Retired delivery driver for Johnson Controls with a car collection. I bought Optima batteries before JCI bought them out and have 2 batteries over 30 years old. I continued to buy them when made in the US and they mysteriously started to fail early, then when they went to Mexico they just barely last past the warranty! Maybe they will go the old Exide marketing program where they always fail before the warranty and if you want the prorated value you buy another!

[@charlesflowers3018]

Agree completely, have experiences with Optima that are exactly as he has noted. First one got in 1998 last 17 years!

[@mikeoxmall6442]

Thanks again for the great tip scotty..I love his face when he rings the bell at the end..he means business

[@MegaLifeChanging]

I agree, had one of those terrible batteries, avoid! And, they wouldn't warranty it after only 3 months without me screaming at them and calling manager

[@darlingmaster1488]

6 years going on my Red Top... And btw, all AGM batteries require a special tender not just Optima... I belong to a car club in Florida with over 100 cars and 75% of them run Optima Red or Yellow top. I haven’t heard of any premature failures. I believe Scotty is basing his opinion on the fact that they moved production to Mexico....

[@MisterDeets]

My red top started getting weak at the 3 year mark. I am slightly over the 4 year mark now and it's really bad. What percentage of members of you car club keep their vehicles in a garage? Being garage kept has a huge positive impact on battery life expectancy.

[@oswaldocastillo6305]

Yeah! He meeds to open them up & see & test quality components!

[@jamextras]

@@MisterDeets How much of a difference is indoors vs outdoors gonna make in Florida?

[@MisterDeets]

@@jamextras Good point. I missed that. In colder climates, that would be an important consideration, but not in Florida. Where I live, the mix of cold and heat is pretty rough on a battery, but those kept in garages tend to hold up much better.

[@celticstephenhill]

From my understanding, hot climates are harder on batteries than cold climates.. So in Canada when 3 seasons are cold (and one of those is an icey hellscape) it may actually be better than one season being sweltering heat? Just a thought.

[@Pip2andahalf]

I have heard this from so many people and now confirmed by a respectable source too. I just got an Odyssey agm

[@dlyght817]

Scotty: “Take a look here... (Points at shirt)...my shirt says Scotty, that’s me. ” 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 This guy is hilarious!

[@timmturner]

Duracell AGM from Sam's Club is made in America by East Penn, are much less expensive compared to Optima (Group 78 is $119.00), and are great batteries.

[@MuddyBob650]

Thank you for this important information! +1 from me. o7

[@T-Mo_]

I'm looking to get a Duracell 840cca marine battery from there. Do you know if it'll work in my car that has a 700cca battery. Same group size.

[@timmturner]

@@T-Mo_ I don't see why it wouldn't, I replaced my standard lead acid car battery with the Group 78 I mentioned above and it's been great over the past few months.

[@T-Mo_]

@@timmturner ok thx! Gonna get one. Not much good online info whether it's ok to do. Its $80 at Sam's vs at 120-130 other stores.

[@406Steven]

If you don't have a Sam's Club nearby or don't have a membership you can get Duracells from Batteries Plus.

[@shed.projects5150]

This has happened to so many brands over the years. Luckily we have sites like you tube, to check up if reputations are still valid. Thanks Scotty

[@BradThePitts]

My Red Top is from 2004, currently 18 years old and works perfectly. It's in a Jeep that's daily driven but sometimes sits for 5 months. Only recently did I start using a battery tender when the Jeep sits around for a while. Oh, it's a stroker motor and they require a strong leg to start!

[@MD-uw3tk]

Have a red top optima in my Jeep. 8 years now. No issues. Starts like the day I bought it.

[@chrissmith8937]

I care

[@Ginx-pe4si]

It was made in the USA. The Optimas these past few years aren't. Did you not hear that part?

[@moonshadow9178]

Thats an exception not the rule though

[@Nerd3927]

@@moonshadow9178 My 2012 redtop battery on my boat still tests like new. I wanted to replace but the seller said you don't need to.

[@mrfyisms]

Totally agree. I had an old Optima that I kept through 3 different cars with no problems. The new ones start swelling up after about a year or two.

[@CP-kb1du]

And they smell during charging ....RED TOPS made prior to 2009 are the best

[@bennett4881]

@@CP-kb1du hey, how do you know 2009 is when they plummeted in build quality & longevity?

[@DragonWarrior7771]

Thanks Scotty, I was just about to order it too and money is a bit tight at the moment.