If your Honda Civic doesn’t seem to be starting up as fast as normal, you might want to have the battery checked at a local shop or auto parts store. If the test reveals it needs replacement, just seek out the correct battery and swap it out.
What’s the best battery for the 2005 Honda Civic Hybrid?
The 2005 Honda Civic’s gas engine uses the 51R absorbent glass mat (AGM) battery, but Optima batteries are an option. For its electric engine, it has a 144-volt nickel-metal hydride battery pack.
In order to select the best replacement, there’s a lot to learn about group sizes, battery types, and much more. Thankfully, we will help you out by exploring all those topics in detail in this article. Check it out.
Battery Group Sizes Explained
All vehicles use a specific battery group size. With that number in hand, you can quickly find a replacement battery that will fit in the tray and properly power your car. Getting the right group size also ensures the battery cables will reach and attach to the terminals with ease.
The Honda Civic Hybrid uses the 51R group size battery. Many other trim levels use the group 51 instead. The only difference is the position of the terminals. On the R size, the positive and negative terminals are reversed.
All 51R batteries have similar exterior dimensions and specs. They are typically 9-inches long, 5-inches wide, and 8-inches tall. They also have at last 400 cold cranking amps and a capacity of 47 amp hours. Their reserve capacity should sit around 75 minutes.
Hybrid battery packs do not have a group size. Instead, you buy them according to their type and volt rating. Never deviate from the manufacturer’s recommendations, or you could damage the electric motor.
Lead Acid, Lithium-Ion, or SLI?
From the factory, the 2005 Civic Hybrid came with an OEM absorbent glass mat battery. You should not use a flooded battery instead even though they are likely much cheaper. You can get an Optima battery if you wish, however.
Since the hybrid version uses idle stop technology, the AGM battery is a must. It’s better able to produce enough power and handle the rapid recharging demands needed for this high-tech system. Beyond that, these batteries are temperature- and vibration-resistant.
You don’t even need to maintain AGM batteries since they are fully sealed. No more refilling the water in your battery or cleaning off the terminals since they are corrosion-resistant.
OEM vs. Aftermarket: What’s the Difference?
As it rolled onto dealership lots, the 2005 Civic Hybrid came decked out with an OEM Honda battery. While the car was covered under the warranty, they required you to get the same genuine Honda replacement battery if the original one died.
After that, you could switch to an aftermarket battery of your choice without worry. You would be giving up Honda’s amazing 100-month battery warranty by doing that. This warranty also comes with an unheard-of three-year full replacement coverage, which you simply cannot get with aftermarket.
Instead, aftermarket batteries tend to have warranty coverage for up to 30 months. If it fails during that time, then the retailer will prorate the price of the battery based on its overall age. You can then use the prorated amount for a discount on its replacement or just get a partial refund.
Beyond the warranty, OEM and aftermarket batteries are largely the same. You just have to make sure to get the group size right to ensure it has enough power to start and run your car.
Want an Aftermarket Battery Instead? Here’s What We Suggest
OEM Honda batteries provide up to eight years of peace of mind, but all that definitely comes at a cost. The high price can feel prohibitive, sending you on a search for a suitable aftermarket alternative.
Thankfully, you have many great options from brands:
- ACDelco
- Duralast
- Duracell
- Interstate
- Super Start
To find the best one for your car, just pick a brand you trust, and then look at the specs. The battery should have at least 400 cold cranking amps, though more is better.
Also, look at the capacity to verify it’s above 47 amp hours. A reserve capacity of around 75 minutes is just fine as well.
As you compare specs, don’t forget to think about the retailer’s reputation. With Honda, you know they will honor their warranty, so you should seek out another retailer known to do the same. That way, you can skip the stress and simply get your transaction processed without a problem.
Photos: Honda
