B5Davem

I believe in the firewall position as opposed to domestic cars with battery closer to the engine , if all the charging system is working correct it can lead to longer battery life. Its still starting the car at -5 outside,my car for the past 3 years been always garaged before we bought my daughters car and now I'm stumped as to how much longer I can expect this with it in the weather. Hopefully at least until next year and then I'll replace it before winter then . It first hit the road in May 97 so its actually 10 years old this year ,which is amazing . I've never seen another make battery go more than 1-2 years past its rating .

77'911

CCA - Cold Cranking Amps
I've seen some oem batteries last 10+ years but that was very unusual. Batteries tend to like, even temps, regular cycling, and regular/proper maintenance. I look at batteries as very inexpensive maintenance and insurance. The quickest way to cook the exceedingly pricey alternators and starters(and flywheel teeth) in these(or any) cars is too keep a weak or failing battery in it. For $60+ dollars , it just is not worth taking the chance.

B5Davem

I know what CCA means
Do you know what to suggest if someone brings in a battery core and you can smell sulfur?
Voltage regulator...I've had a 2 hour course on just batteries . ****Edit*** found in ETKA ...oe battery is 70AH/340A not that high..
<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/64191/ase_certified.jpg">

Clues

I replaced the oem battery in 11/02 with an Interstate Megatron. Friday morning it died. Jump-started it and drove 15 miles on the highway. Later that day I came out of a store and it was dead. Tow truck gave me a jump, waited while I drove around for 10 minutes and then we determined that it was not holding a charge. He had a replacement brought down from his garage (not Interstate) because I needed the car that night.

The battery is guaranteed for 72 months. In speaking with Interstate, their waranty only applies to the purchase of a replacement battery... So I am SOL beacause I already bought a replacement.

A4SilverT

for the first three years? And they honor it! I got a full replacement after a year.

Prorated warranties are junk even if they're honored. You get a prorated amount of what you paid for the old battery. Of course what they're selling now has gone up substantially in price. I guess it's better than nothing, but I'll take free replacement any day.