Originally Posted by kav315

Bought it 9/2012 from CarMax, so about 8-9 months now. I was more dissatisfied with CarMax not putting in a new battery since the car is an 08 and it had the original battery in it which they tend to last what 5 years? But they sold me a car with a battery that was about to go.

And as far as the big repair bill goes. That's what I purchased a 150k extended warranty with a $250 deductible when those BIG bills come.

Originally Posted by sneakypigeons

I had the same problem with my battery. turns out it still had the original one in it. it lasted 7 years so i cant complian. I too went to autozone (only cuz they were the closest to me and i had to get one and install it on my way to work) i would rather have gotten a diehard or optima but i dont have a sears in my area and autozone didnt have an optima instock that would work for me. They sold me the only one they had it was like $157. I wouldnt have minded paying over $200 for a optima or diehard. I will probably use an optima for my second battery when i do that install.
I was surprised at how small the battery was for the h3. i was expecting much bigger and dreading having to lift a heavy *** battery up into the engine bay.

Originally Posted by Aussie H3

Mate,why would the dealer know the battery is on its way out, and why would they replace it if it was working fine at the time you bought the car?? Batteries are consumables on cars and get replaced when required (when they stop workinh)my H3 is a 2007 model and still runs the original battery it rolled out of the factory with. So far works fine. Why would I replace it now?

However it will be replaced as soon as it stops starting the car first turn of the key. Will probably get an optima or similar.

Might even try for a dual battery set up once I fit a winch and four roof mounted driving lights!!!

Originally Posted by sneakypigeons

thanks HUMMERZ i plan on doing a dual battery setup once i install my winch.

Originally Posted by Infamous360

I recommend you get a high output alternator as well. Excessive amperage makes a really nice one. I'm running one in my h3 to power my stereo.

Originally Posted by hummerz

WOW, what amperage are you pulling on your stereo? My stock system at a decent volume may pull 10amps= without the alternator(not running), I can run the stereo for 4.4 hours.... 2 batteries rated @44ah+ each, would double that. The stock alternator should have no problem recharging the batteries, unless you are pulling a ton of amps, or your have the stereo on for a long period of time without running the rig?

Originally Posted by Xlr8n

Be aware that the Optima batteries of today are not the same as those of several years ago. They moved production a couple years back and the quality plummeted. There are many better options for less money: DieHard AGM, OReilly Super Start Extreme AGM (made by Deka).

Originally Posted by happythree

155 amps X 14v= appx 2000 watts.
tell us all about your stuff.