FlashFunk

I've done a ton of searches but seem to be finding different information.

My local Costco has the Optima RedTop 75/35 for cheap. Has anyone used this specific model of battery in a 2004 TL? The book they had at the store didn't show it as compatible with the TL. I've read on other posts people have used the model 34 & 34R.

The 75/35 looks like it has slightly smaller dimensions than the 34, so I assumed it won't have any problems fitting. It also has slightly smaller amps, etc. than the 34. Will it be too weak? I assume not because the specs still look alot higher than the factory battery.

The weird thing is that the Optima website only has a TL listed for year 2006, and the battery group is 35. I assume this is the 75/35 because it has the same outer dimensions.

Now I'm very confused. Anyone have experience? I have no aftermarket mods or stereo equipment for what it's worth.

rodneyc77

iTrader: (1)

I've installed both... the issue is in the length of power wire on the car... you basically have to seperate the power wire coming from the starter & Altenator and the accessories power wire going to the underhood fuse box... to get the extra length you need to reach the battery post... 'cause those batteries sit a little lower that the stock battery...

Both the batteries you stated above fit on the TL... 75/35 and the 34R

GLowrdr

I'd be interested in this answer as well. I also noticed that Costco has the Optima batteries, but I'm not in the market for one at the moment.

MichaelBenz

iTrader: (2)

Personally...my Optima died in 1.5 years. Wouldnt buy another one. We have been having bad luck with them around our parts.

FlashFunk

I haven't had a chance to look under the hood, but is this possible to do with a minimal tool set (screwdrivers, rackets, etc), no lift, and limited mechanical experience?

Tripnbeats

flash all u need is a 10mm wrench or ratchet and ur golden it pops right out.

FlashFunk

Cool, I do have that. I'll make sure to check it out tonight before I actually buy the battery.

Tripnbeats

also look into braille batteries they are a little more costly but def worth what you're looking for "quality" "long lasting"....i ordered mine last week. and they are slightly smaller than the stock tl battery.

FlashFunk

Since i'm going to be messing with the power cable anyway. When I was first checked the old stock battery I noticed there was a decent amount of white corrosion on the terminal. Originally I was just going to try and clean it with baking soda/water, but should I go ahead and replace the whole wire? Or will cleaning and greasing it be sufficient?

Can I buy the replacement wire from a local store?

don5504

Just so yall know braille batteries are rebranded deka batteries. So you could probably find the Deka version for cheaper.

D

sdiesel619

funny this question popped up. My wife met me for lunch and when we got back to the car, it wouldnt start. Looked all over for a battery and went to costco for an optima. Asked the guy at the front counter and he couldnt tell me anything. So i bought the 75/35. It sits lower in the tray and also a tad bit narrower. Still fits. The battery posts are a little down towards the front end making the positive connection a little difficult. I had to take off a couple of cable ties attached to the fuse box but i made it work. The only thing you might have to modify is the battery cover. You may need to cut it. But other than that, the car starts up perfectly!

Tripnbeats

flash just clean it. no big deal.

TL1999

it has 36 months free replace then 36 months prorate....so why didn't you get a new one from Optima or from where you got it from?

CrazyNurse

Yeah, I had a red top in my last car cuz of my system. It died several months before the warranty was up.

It was O.K I guess.