2004 V6 battery replacement (Gel or the regular kind)

[PTPT2002]

My 2004 SR5 V6 has over 4 years and 65K miles on the odometer. When should i start to plan for a battery replacement?

Also, should i get the regular replacement battery or the "gel" type battery (probably cost more).

I just want to get some ideas from those that have already replaced their batteries.

 

[davefisher]

Unless you do serious serious offroading, or run a huge sound system, I would stick with a traditional battery.

I assume you're talking about an Optima deep cycle when you say "gel" right?

 

[PTPT2002]

That's right. I am referring to the Optima Batteries. I guess it is an overkill since i don't have a "custom" system in my truck.

 

[davefisher]

Yes, the deep cycle is helpful in situations that draw high power quickly, like with large amps, etc. Also helpful (from what I've been told) in extreme offroading situations since it's a hard consistency in the casing.

Good luck!

 

[Mark86]

I have been pondering the same thing on my 2005. I get a little nervous with batteries after they reach the 3 year mark. Everybody tells me to not replace a battery until it dies the first time. That makes me a bit nervous.

 

[teampwr2]

The Red top Optima will set you back approx. $150
Its A great way to go even if you dont have a sound system or anything else ... Since they are not a traditional Plate type battery you dont have to worry about an end plate falling off inside the battery causing a Dead short which when this happens you cant jump start and limp on.
they are great for off roading to avoid the above mentioned scenario .Great peice of mind but you pay for it .

 

[03_4x4Runner]

I replaced my original battery at 4.5 years even though it still worked good. I always use Optimas because I off road and I do not like battery acid leaking out causing corrosion and rust. Worth the extra money to me and they last longer.

 

[davefisher]

Hmmm, good to know. That's not as expensive as I thought.... $150. Can anyone clarify the real world difference between the red top and yellow top? Do you notice any starting difference using a deep cycle? I've not personally used an Optima in a vehicle, but have been in other trucks that do use them (though I have nothing to compare starting power to since I didn't know the particular truck with a traditional battery in it).

 

[Methodical]

Your 4runner should have come with a Panasonic battery from the factory. This is a top-of-the-line automotive battery. Panasonic is one of few companies that manufactures batteries, and they make great ones. Don't discount it. I haven't heard anyone yet mention they replaced their battery because it died!

I'm working mine hard here in alaska, and will test its lifespan to the end.

 

[teampwr2]

The Red top Has a Better Warranty ...Both will work upside down and sideways ..( hope You never test it out ).

 

[greasefingers]

Batteries last about 5 years I the northeast. Hotter and very cold climates are different (shorter). I have just over 100,000 miles and 5 years and 1 month on my OEM Panasonic battery. I will start looking for sales this fall (maybe Labor Day).

Otpimta

 

[MrTom]

Have been looking at the Odyssey battery. Any comments or first hand info on this one?
http://www.odysseybatteries.com/
Thanks,
Tom

 

[owen4runner]

$25 OFF on any Optima Battery. Link provided for your convenience. Good from 7/1/08 thru 9/15/08.

Optima $25 Discount

 

[nytefog]

Odyssey battery

I had odyssey batteries on my Land Rover and motor cycles. I beleive they very well built and worth the money. I constantly strained my Land Rovers battery with a winch and the battery wouldn't die.