12V battery replacement suggestion

Many on this forum believe the Optima is the best battery for the Prius. They now make one that is a direct fit "no need for the fitting kit" but you will need the larger battery tray from Toyota if your car is not the SKS version. (Larger battery)

There have been some reports of late not just on this forum of the Optima being supplied in a discharged state "less than 12.8 volts" that is not good for longevity. There have also been reports of faulty batteries possibly linked to a move in the production facilities.

I believe the Exide Edge FP-AGM51JIS to be even better as it has a higher capacity (45 amp/hr) and a longer guaranty (4 years full replacement) at about $160. This is a direct fit battery but again needs the larger tray, it also is a deep discharge AGM battery.

I am in no way connected with any battery company.

 

I highly recommend elearnaid. Great service.

 

Can you share how to determine if your Prius is the SKS version. Thanks

 

Does the driver door unlock when you reach of it? then it's SKS.

ELearnaid has the battery on sale at $175

 

Huh? It should only unlock when you're near the car w/the key and you touch the rear of the either two front door handles. SKS cars also have black buttons on the two front doors to lock.

 

Thanks to both of you for the quick responses. Yes, it does unlock when I extend my hand under the handle and I have black buttons on both front doors and rear hatch. This will make installing the battery much easier. I have less then 4 years on my battery, but I am just trying to plan ahead to avoid getting stranded.