AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or simply, Glass Mat batteries, are becoming more and more popular. This is especially true in the luxury car market.

Why are AGM’s recommended for most late model cars? With the vast amount of electronics on late model cars, it is imperative that they have a source of reliable and stable power. Replacing an AGM battery with a conventional battery to save money may seem like a good option, however it will likely not work out in the long run. Some vehicles are designed to use AGM batteries. If a conventional battery is used instead, it will have a shorter life span and can possibly damage other components.

Advantages of using AGM vs. conventional batteries:

Conventional batteries are flooded with acid. AGM batteries will not spill due to the glass mats that suspend the acid rather than leaving it in liquid form. This is a great advantage, especially on vehicles where the battery is located inside the cabin-under the seat or floor panel for example.

They charge faster than conventional batteries and are maintenance free. Less load on the car’s alternator means better performance and fuel mileage.

They last longer. AGM batteries have a low discharge rate. As a result they last longer when not in use, so a life span of 6-7 years is not uncommon.

AGM batteries have a very high energy output because of their low internal resistance. This high output offers distinct advantages when starting. This is especially true with newer vehicles that have the ECO feature—engine cuts–off at red-lights and restarts automatically when you push the gas pedal.

Better construction-early applications were for military and aircraft so these batteries are built to withstand temperature fluctuations and vibration that occurs in daily travel.

In summary: AGM batteries will last longer and provide vehicle owners with superior service in today’s complex automobiles. Although they cost a bit more initially, long term they offer a great value!

One final note– especially for BMW and Mini owners: These cars are often equipped with intelligent battery sensors and battery control modules that control how the alternator charges the battery. A new battery, for example, requires less charging and therefore less fuel consumption. It is imperative that new batteries are “registered” upon installation so the systems knows that the battery is new.