You rely on your car’s battery to start the engine each time you turn the key. Unfortunately, car batteries don’t last forever. In fact, most will last between two and five years before needing to be replaced.
What’s the best battery for a 2014 Toyota Corolla?
The recommended OEM replacement is a Toyota TrueStart 00544-35060-550. However, aftermarket options are also available.
Choosing the right replacement battery for your 2014 Corolla can be tough. Thankfully, with some help (and a better understanding of how car it all works), you can buy with confidence.
Battery Group Sizes 101
You’ll come across a lot of confusing terminology as you shop for replacement batteries. One common term you may find is that of “group size.” What does battery group size mean, anyway?
All this refers to is the maximum container size, terminal type, and location of the battery in each model. There are a few common group sizes used in modern cars. The 2014 Corolla’s 35 group size is one of them.
Specifically, a 35 group size battery measures about 9.05″ long, 688″ wide, and 8.85″ in height. These measurements and classifications are set by the Battery Council International to ensure a consistent fit between brands.
Battery Types: Lead-Acid, Lithium-Ion, SLI, and More
You should now better understand what a battery’s group size refers to. However, you might still feel confused by other jargon you see thrown around as you shop for a replacement battery.
There are many different types of batteries. A conventional car battery is designed to provide a “burst” of energy for a short period of time to start the engine. This type is known as a starting, lighting, ignition (SLI) battery.
Once an SLI battery is discharged, it can be recharged over time using power from the car’s alternator while it is running. This is the most common type of battery you’ll see on a standard 2014 Corolla.
There are also Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries, which offer enhanced starting power in extreme conditions and are also certified non-spillable, thus allowing them to be mounted in any position needed.
OEM vs. Aftermarket Batteries: What’s the Difference?
When you choose a replacement battery for your 2014 Toyota Corolla, you’ll also need to decide between an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) battery or an aftermarket option.
An OEM battery is the one that was made by or for your car’s manufacturer when it was designed and built. In the case of the 2014 Corolla, the OEM battery is a Toyota TrueStart model.
Aftermarket batteries, on the other hand, are batteries made and sold by third-party manufacturers that meet or exceed the specifications set forth by your car’s manufacturer. Some popular aftermarket car battery brands include:
- Optima
- AC Delco
- Powersport
Ideally, you’ll want to swap out your car’s existing battery with an OEM option as they’re made for your exact make and model. They may also come with a better warranty than an aftermarket option.
On the other hand, you’ll typically pay more for an OEM battery — and these replacements are not always easily located. With a 2014 Corolla, you may have a little bit of trouble finding an affordable OEM replacement.
If You Decide to Go Aftermarket on a Replacement Battery…
If you go with an aftermarket replacement battery, be sure to choose one that fits your vehicle, one that’s backed by a reputable brand and features a warranty
When it comes to aftermarket batteries for the 2014 Corolla, we (along with Auto Batteries) recommend an AGM battery with a 35 group size and a minimum of 335 cold-cranking amps (this refers to the battery’s ability to start a car at low temperatures).
An AGM battery with these specifications will provide the best combination of durability, reliability, and zero maintenance. However, an SLI flooded battery with the same specs may also work for a 2014 Corolla with a standard 1.8L engine.
Photos: Toyota
