Can I Use a Conventional Battery Instead of an AGM Battery?

AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries are designed for high-power demands and charge much faster than conventional lead-acid batteries. If you install a standard battery in a vehicle built for AGM, your charging system, especially here and around Omaha, will likely overcharge the battery. This causes it to fail prematurely or even damage your vehicle's alternator.

Why This Matters

The charging computer in modern cars is specifically tuned to a particular battery type, and using the wrong one can result in expensive electrical repairs. Owner Zach H. of Mad Hatter Auto Repair with locations in Omaha, NE, and Council Bluffs, IA, explains, "AGM and conventional batteries charge at separate rates and loads; installing improper batteries can cause damage to the charging system or the battery that is being installed." Think of it like using a high-voltage power tool cord to charge a small flashlight--the battery isn't built to handle that specific flow of energy and will burn out much faster than normal.

Maintain Your Power at Mad Hatter Auto Repair

Winter is the time when these battery issues usually surface because freezing temperatures make it harder for any battery to crank your engine. To stay safe and to avoid a frantic no-start morning, bring your vehicle in for our winter inspection special - priced at only $149.99! This includes a professional starting and charging system check to verify you have the correct battery type and that it is strong enough to handle the Midwest cold. To schedule an appointment, call our Omaha shop at (402) 330-2286, and in Council Bluffs call (712) 322-7500. Or you can easily book an appointment using our easy to use online scheduling tool.