How Would I Know Whether Battery is AGM or Standard?

If your car battery is nearing the end of its life and you’re unsure which type to replace it with, you're not alone. Many drivers struggle to differentiate between Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries and conventional lead-acid batteries. Understanding the type of battery your vehicle uses is crucial, especially if you’re considering upgrading for better performance, reliability, and lifespan.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to check your current battery type and explain the benefits of switching to AGM technology if your vehicle allows it.

What’s the Difference Between AGM and Standard Lead-Acid Batteries?

Before diving into identification, let’s quickly recap the difference:

• Standard Lead-Acid Battery: Traditional design where the lead plates are submerged in liquid electrolyte. Lower cost, but shorter lifespan and less resistant to vibration and deep discharges.
• AGM Battery (Absorbent Glass Mat): Advanced design where electrolyte is absorbed in glass fiber mats, offering higher cold cranking amps (CCA), longer lifespan, faster charging, and superior performance for vehicles with start-stop systems or heavy electrical demands.

How Would I Know Whether Battery is AGM or Standard?

1. Check Your Battery Label
   The easiest and most accurate way to identify your car battery type is by inspecting the label on the battery casing itself. Look for any of the following keywords: “AGM” “Absorbent Glass Mat” “Sealed Non-Spillable”. If none of these terms are present and the battery mentions “flooded” or requires regular water top-ups, it’s likely a conventional lead-acid battery.

2. Check the Owner's Manual
And another way, you can look for sections labeled “Battery Specifications” or “Battery Maintenance” in your owner’s manual. Your car's owner’s manual will specify the recommended battery type and specifications.

3. Look at the Battery Case Design
AGM batteries are completely sealed (except for a small safety valve) and will usually have a flat, clean top cover with no removable vent caps. Standard flooded batteries typically have removable caps or visible ports for topping off electrolyte levels.

4. Manufacturer Website or Battery Part Number Search
If you can locate the battery part number (often printed or stamped on the casing), you can search it on the manufacturer's website or in their catalog.

5. Professional Help Support
If you're still unsure, consult a mechanic or Uplus battery specialist for assistance via support@uplusbattery.com.

Can I Upgrade from Regular Lead Acid Batteries to AGM Batteries?

Absolutely the answer is yes! And it's a wise idea. Because upgrading from a conventional lead-acid to an AGM battery can improve your vehicle’s performance, particularly if you drive in extreme weather conditions, have a car with start-stop technology, run multiple electronic accessories (sound systems, GPS, dash cams) and make short trips or experience heavy city traffic frequently.

Things to Consider Before Upgrading AGM Batteries

Before you upgrade from conventional to AGM batteries, you need to be aware of these points:

• Charging Compatibility: AGM requires a smart charger or compatible system to avoid overcharging. Some older vehicles may need a charging system check.
• Physical Fit: Ensure the new AGM battery matches your vehicle’s group size, terminal orientation, and capacity requirements. In a previous blog, there was a description of battery size guide. 
• Although the price of AGM batteries is usually higher than that of conventional lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries have a much longer lifespan. For example, Uplus AGM car battery is up to 7 years as a usual.

Why Uplus Focus on AGM Battery?

At UPLUS, we’re dedicated to providing automotive power solutions that meet the demands of modern driving, and that’s why we focus on Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) technology. Here’s why AGM is at the heart of our product lineup:

• Meet the Needs of Modern Vehicles: Today’s vehicles are no longer just about getting from A to B. They’re packed with advanced features like start-stop systems, infotainment screens, driver-assist technologies, and multiple power-hungry accessories. AGM batteries are specifically designed to handle these high electrical loads, frequent starts, and short journeys, situations where traditional lead-acid batteries fall short.
• Superior Performance in Extreme Conditions: AGM batteries deliver reliable starting power in both freezing winters and sweltering summers. Thanks to their sealed, vibration-resistant design and high Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), AGM batteries outperform flooded types in harsh conditions.
• Longer Service Life and Better ROI: AGM batteries offer up to more times the cycle life of standard flooded batteries. This makes them more cost-effective in the long run, as they require fewer replacements and reduce vehicle downtime. UPLUS AGM batteries are engineered for durability, ensuring excellent value for both individual drivers and fleet operators.
• Maintenance-Free & Safer Design: With no need for water refills and a sealed, spill-proof design, AGM batteries are cleaner, safer, and virtually maintenance-free. This aligns with UPLUS’s commitment to user-friendly, eco-conscious automotive solutions that simplify ownership and reduce environmental impact.

If you’re considering an upgrade, an AGM battery is a worthwhile investment for modern vehicles or drivers who demand more from their car’s electrical system. For expert guidance or to explore high-performance AGM batteries, contact Uplus team at support@uplusbattery.com.

About Uplus Battery

Uplus Battery, a subsidiary of Leoch Battery, is a global brand specializing in maintenance-free AGM batteries. With 20+ years of R&D and international distribution, Uplus delivers reliable AGM solutions for cars & trucks, powersports, marine, and industrial applications.

Known for excellent start-stop performance, vibration resistance, and long service life — Uplus AGM batteries are sealed, spill-proof, and require zero maintenance.

👉 Browse Uplus AGM Batteries Here