Frequently Asked Questions

Will storing my car or motorcycle battery on a concrete floor ruin it?

This rule of thumb at one time used to ring true in the early days of automotive battery technology.

The earliest examples of automotive batteries were lead acid batteries that were composed of glass cells and encased in a wooden box. When these were left on the garage floor the moisture from the concrete would be absorbed by the wooden box causing it to swell or warp. This would cause the glass cells to move and eventually break leaving you with acid on the floor and a ruined battery – not good.

As technology evolved car batteries had changed, but the concrete issue still remained. Car batteries eventually progressed to being built using a hard rubber case. The problem was these cases were very porous, and as with the wooden cases they would absorb the moisture from the floor and allow current to flow between the cells discharging the battery.

But fear not! The batteries we find in our modern cars use cases that are made of hard plastics like polypropylene. These cases are able to block any moisture from coming through preventing the previously mentioned discharge issues.

We can finally put this age old myth to rest. Storing your car or motorcycle battery on a concrete floor will not ruin it. Keep in mind that a lead acid car battery will self-discharge if left sitting unmaintained over time. This, however, has nothing to do with where or what the battery is sitting on.

AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) and standard (flooded lead-acid) batteries are both types of lead-acid batteries, but they differ in construction and performance characteristics. AGM batteries are generally more expensive but offer advantages like faster charging, better vibration resistance, and longer lifespans. Standard batteries are more affordable and suitable for basic automotive needs. Key Differences: 

• Construction:Standard batteries contain liquid electrolyte that can spill, while AGM batteries have the electrolyte absorbed in a fiberglass mat, making them spill-proof and more vibration-resistant. 
• Charging:AGM batteries recharge faster due to lower internal resistance. 
• Lifespan:AGMs generally last longer than standard batteries, often 3-7 years compared to 2-5 years. 
• Performance:AGM batteries can handle more charge cycles and offer more power bursts, making them suitable for vehicles with high electrical demands or those with start-stop technology. 
• Cost:AGM batteries are more expensive upfront but may offer better long-term value due to their longer lifespan and potentially lower maintenance needs. 
• Maintenance:AGMs are maintenance-free, while standard batteries may require occasional checking and topping off of electrolyte levels. 

When to Choose Which: 

• AGM:Opt for AGM if you need a robust battery for demanding applications (high-performance vehicles, start-stop systems, powersports, etc.), require spill-proof and vibration-resistant design, or prefer a longer-lasting battery with faster charging. 
• Standard (Flooded):Choose standard batteries if you have a basic vehicle and prioritize cost savings. 

Nicks Roadside typically arrives within 30 minutes for emergency roadside assistance.

Response times may vary for non-emergencies and we will typically try and schedule a time frame that works best for you and we will communicate any delays regarding high call volume and priority service interruptions.

You can get a quote by calling or texting Nicks Roadside or filling out the request form on our website.