Buying Guide: UTV & SxS Batteries

The first step to choosing the right replacement battery for a utility vehicle (UTV), side-by-side (SxS), or other powersports vehicle is knowing the current battery's:

• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): A battery's ability to start an engine in cold temperatures
• Reserve Capacity (RC): How long a fully charged battery holds its charge
• Amp Hour (Ah): How long a battery provides an amperage for one hour

Why do you need to know all this? Your new battery must meet or beat those original equipment specifications. This information is usually printed on the battery label or in the owner's manual. If that's unavailable, you can visit your local Batteries Plus and our experts can help you.

Whether your side-by-side is a Honda, Yamaha, Polaris, or another top brand, the local experts at Batteries Plus are here to test and replace your battery to get you back on the trail fast.

Finding the best battery fit for your UTV or SxS depends on the model you own and your riding habits:

Flooded UTV Batteries

Flooded lead-acid batteries are the most budget-friendly option for UTV riders, making them perfect for casual, easy-going rides. The catch is that they aren't completely sealed, meaning they can spill on rough terrain and lose water to evaporation while charging.

You'll need to periodically add distilled water to prevent corrosion and early failure. The risk of spills is why they aren't ideal for extreme riding or racing.

AGM Lead Acid Batteries

Absorbed Glass Mat or AGM batteries are completely sealed, making them spill-proof and 100% maintenance-free.

They easily handle rough trails, jobsites, and extreme weather thanks to their excellent vibration and temperature resistance.

While they cost a bit more up than flooded batteries, AGM's faster recharge times, slower drain during storage, and longer overall lifespan make them a smarter long-term investment for UTV riders.

Lithium Batteries

Our X2Power lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) options are the ultimate premium upgrade.

They are about 55% lighter than standard batteries—perfect for shedding weight for racing—and they charge twice as fast while lasting up to four times longer. They even hold a charge when left in storage.

You may pay more upfront, but the massive lifespan of lithium will actually save you money over time

No matter what type of battery you choose for your UTV, it won't work properly if it isn't maintained properly, especially during the off-season. Follow these tips to maintain and get the longest life possible out of your battery.

1. Secure the battery - Make sure the battery is securely mounted in the battery compartment. This is particularly important if you're going trail riding or performing heavy utility work.
2. Keep it charged - Use a battery charger to maintain your UTV battery during the off-season or other long periods of inactivity.
• Note: Lithium batteries have a long self-discharge rate and may require less charging maintenance during the off-season. Keep stored lithium batteries at around 50% for best results.
3. Use the right charger - Use one that matches the voltage and chemistry of your side-by-side battery.
• Example: 12-volt AGM charger goes with a 12-volt AGM battery. A lithium charger is needed for lithium batteries.
4. Avoid overcharging - Overcharging can shorten battery life. Use a maintainer or charger with an automatic shut-off to prevent this.
5. Flooded only: Water your battery - Regularly check and top off the electrolyte inside with distilled or deionized water.
• Remember: Do not attempt to do this with an AGM or lithium battery. This only applies to flooded batteries. Not sure about your battery chemistry? Ask your local Batteries Plus expert.
6. Keep terminals free of corrosion - If corrosion is present on the battery terminals, clean it off corrosion using a battery terminal brush and a mixture of baking soda and water. Protect the terminals by applying an anti-corrosion spray.

Your UTV battery works hard while you ride, but it also loses a small amount of charge even when it's not in use. Most batteries, even with the best maintenance, only last X years.

Signs of battery failure include:

• Slow starting or cranking
• Dim headlights
• Accessories not working
• Visible damage to the battery casing (cracks or corrosion)

If you're having a hard time starting up your side-by-side, check to see if your battery is truly dead or if it has just lost its charge. Come by your local Batteries Plus for an expert consultation on your SxS or UTV battery.