Best Off-Road Jeep Batteries: Get A Power Boost On Harsh Terrain

Maintain stable engine performance no matter the environment with these off-road batteries

byMike Knott, Norah Tarichia|
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BYMike Knott, Norah Tarichia/ LAST UPDATED ON January 23, 2020

It can be difficult to determine which type of battery will best power your truck, SUV, or any other large vehicle during off-roading adventures. That’s why we came up with a buying guide of some of the best off-roading batteries that will help you maneuver through rough terrain with ease. Consider the options below.

Best Overall
Odyssey PC Automotive and LTV Battery 

Odyssey PC Automotive and LTV Battery 

Summary
A 330 CCA sealed lead acid battery that’s protected against vibrational damage.
Pros
Long service life. Fast recharge rate. 70-percent longer cycle life than conventional batteries. Non-spillable design. Shock resistant. Can power large vehicles and antique and classic cars.
Cons
May not be compatible with all recommended vehicles. You may have trouble getting the battery to a full charge with time. Expensive.
Best Value

Mighty Max Battery ML

Summary
An affordable AGM battery that maintains consistent performance in high and low temperatures.
Pros
Rechargeable. Maintenance-free. Spill-proof design. Can recover from deep discharge. Shock and vibration resistant. Mounting flexibility. It can be used in any environment.
Cons
It doesn’t come with a wire harness or mounting accessories. Not long-lasting. Weak terminals.
Honorable Mention

Optima Batteries Redtop

Summary
A 720 CCA battery that provides enough starting power, even in bad weather.
Pros
Three times longer battery life than conventional batteries. Maintenance-free. Highly resistant to vibration. Strong and clean power source. Great for heavy-duty use.
Cons
No warranty coverage. Extreme heat conditions shorten the unit’s life. May develop issues with holding a charge with time. 

Tips

  • If you are stranded off road and have to jump-start the battery, remember to turn on the car heater to shield your car’s electrical system from voltage surges. Switch off all other electrical accessories, including the headlights and the stereo. 
  • Battery manufacturers often indicate what type of weather conditions its batteries are designed for. Batteries with an “N” or “North” marking are designed for cold weather conditions. Batteries with an “S” or “South” marking are designed for hot regions. 
  • Consider buying a trickle charger to top off the battery when it’s not in use. It will keep your battery from dying after being discharged for a long time. Buy a trickle charger that’s compatible with your battery’s power rating. 

FAQs

Q: How do I know that it’s time to replace the battery?

A: You will notice that you have a hard time starting your vehicle, or the engine crank may be a bit sluggish. Replace your battery if it discharges at a faster rate than normal. You may also notice that the battery case becomes bloated, and it may not fit in the mounting unit. Replace such a battery before it explodes. 

Q: How can I tell that a battery is fresh?

A: Look for the manufacturing date on the case of the battery. If the battery has been manufactured in less than six months from the current date, then it's a fresh battery. If it's more than six months, it’s not a fresh or new battery, even if you bought an original product. 

Q: What causes premature battery failure?

A: A few human errors, such as not shutting the trunk or doors all the way and leaving the headlights on, can cause premature battery failure. Some accessories in your vehicle, like security alarms and upgraded stereo systems, may also drain your battery and shorten its life. Also, corroded or dirty terminals may not maintain a good connection with your vehicle, and that could lead to premature battery failure.  

Final Thoughts

Our top pick for the best off-roading battery is the Odyssey PC Automotive and LTV Battery. It provides optimal, maintenance-free performance for off-roading enthusiasts. 

Our best value off-road battery is the Mighty Max Battery ML. It’s an affordable battery that can be used for a wide variety of applications besides off-roading.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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