If you search for car batteries on the internet, you will surely bump into Interstate batteries. They are displayed in every workshop and retailer. And, this begs the question, “Are Interstate car batteries good?” And, the answer is a big YES.
Interstate is a very reputable and reliable battery company in the American automotive industry. Interstate car batteries have dependable high performance, a long lifespan, and are reasonably priced with a good warranty. Interstate is also the number one battery recycler in the USA.
In this blog, we will dive deeper into the nitty-gritty details of Interstate car batteries and find out what makes Interstate car batteries good.
PS: Previously, I covered one of the Interstate car battery alternatives, AC Delco. You can read more about them here.
Who Makes Car Interstate Batteries?
Johnson Controls, the largest American battery manufacturer, used to make Interstate batteries a few years ago. However, Interstate has recently partnered with Exide Technologies and Brookfield Business Partners, who produce the batteries.
Where Are Interstate Batteries Made?
Neither Interstate nor the manufacturer disclose exactly where the batteries are produced. Exide is an Indian battery manufacturer. However, they have manufacturing facilities distributed around the globe, including in the US.
So it’s hard to pinpoint the exact location where Interstate batteries are made.
How long do interstate batteries last?
Interstate batteries usually last between 3-5 years. However, they can last longer if they are properly taken care of and go through regular maintenance.
How Does Interstate Batteries Warranty Work?
Depending on the models, Interstate offers a wide range of warranties on the batteries. The low-budget commercial batteries come with an 18-month warranty.
The warranty goes higher with the more expensive and better quality batteries. With their most premium MTZ batteries, they offer a 48-month warranty.
What Makes Interstate Car Batteries Good? 5 key features
Let’s have a close look at the features and attributes that make Interstate car batteries worth your money.
#1 – High Cranking Performance
The primary responsibility of a car battery is to help crank up the engine and start the vehicle. Interstate Batteries, especially the MTZ batteries, have super high cranking-up power that works with certainty. The batteries also help to constantly power the accessories in the car, such as mobile chargers, audio players, GPS screens, etc.
#2 – AGM and EFB batteries
Interstate offers absorbed glass-mat (AGM) batteries and enhanced flooded battery (EFB) batteries with a very favorable warranty. Interstate MTX AGM batteries have an advanced design that increases the amount of lead in the battery, making them last an extended period of time. It also makes the battery spill-proof and resistant to vibrations.
Interstate MTX EFB batteries beat the regular batteries in terms of recharges with their advanced design. These EFB batteries can be used as an OE replacement for vehicles requiring EFB batteries.
#3 – Battery for the Cold
Regular car batteries often fail to crank up the engine in the cold weather as the lead jots up inside the batter case. To avoid such inconveniences, Interstate designed and created the MTP batteries that have the power to start the vehicle in cold to moderate weather conditions. These batteries meet and exceed the required starting power for cars and trucks in a cold environment.
#4 – Wide Range of Batteries
Interstate has a battery for everyone. They have a total of six battery lineups ranging from budget-friendly to premium rates. Obviously, the performance and quality of the product will match its cost. I think it’s great that they have such a diverse selection of products in their product arsenal, as there is something for everyone.
#5 – Warranty
Interstate offers a great warranty deal with all of its car batteries. The MTZ battery lineup, which is their most premium battery, has a 48-month warranty period. The MTP batteries are their best car batteries, and they include a 30-month warranty. The least amount of warranty is on the commercial series batteries, which are 18 months.
Interstate Car Batteries Reviews
For every brand or product I review, I like to check the reviews of the products on all platforms to see what the consumers think about them. For Interstate batteries, I found most people to be satisfied with the purchase. Every Interstate battery has 4.5-star reviews across all platforms.
Most people praised the longevity and warranty of the batteries. A few people were unhappy because the batteries didn’t match their vehicles. So make sure to confirm the compatibility of the batteries before you make the purchase. You can check the battery compatibility directly from the company’s official website.
Who Sells Interstate Car Batteries?
You can find Interstate car batteries at Amazon, and Walmart. Interstate has over 200 dealers distributed around the United States. You can find an Interstate battery center near you here.
Duracell VS Interstate Car Battery – What’s the Differences
Duracell and Interstate both produce good quality car batteries. Many people compare and have a hard time choosing between these two batteries. I made the below comparison table to have all the information laid out so that you can make the right decision for yourself.
| Feature | Interstate | Duracell |
|---|---|---|
| Pallet | Black and bright green | Black and copper-brown |
| Types | AGM, EFB, Commercial | Starter, Advanced, EFB, AGM |
| Price | Slightly expensive | Affordable and budget-friendly |
| Performance | Last longer | Charges faster |
| Lifespan | 3-5 years | 2-5 years |
| Sustainability | Good | Great (#1 battery recycler in the United States. |
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Before I share my verdict on “are Interstate car batteries good”, I want to briefly answer a few more frequently asked questions by the public.
1. Are Costco Interstate Batteries the same as regular Interstate Batteries?
Yes, Costco Interstate batteries are the same as regular Interstate batteries. But Costco offers a different warranty policy than the original distributor.
2. Are Costco batteries made by interstate?
No, Interstate does not make batteries for Costco. Clarios makes the batteries for Costco.
3. How often should you change your car battery?
You should change your car battery every 4-5 years. The best practice would be to keep an eye on the batteries after 3 years and replace them when the performance starts to flicker.
4. Do I need to add water to my Interstate battery?
No, you do not need to add water to Interstate batteries as they have lead acid contained inside the case.
Verdict
So, are Interstate car batteries good? Yes, they are very reliable batteries with high cranking performance. Although the price is slightly on the higher side, the long-lasting cycle life makes it totally worth it. The extended warranty period on the batteries makes it a good deal. The batteries are also recyclable, which is a plus.
If I had to suggest a cheaper alternative for Interstate batteries, it would be Everstart car batteries by Walmart. I have covered them in my previous blog, which you can read here.
I would love to know what you know about Interstate car batteries. Leave your thoughts in the below comment section.
