Everything You Need to Know Before You Buy

You’ve probably heard about the Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery and how it’s one of the best car batteries on the market. But before you make your purchase, there are some key facts you should know to make sure you get the right battery for your vehicle. In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll give you a detailed overview of the Duralast Gold H6 DLG, including specs, pricing, installation, maintenance and more.

What is the Duralast Gold H6 DLG Battery?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG is an automotive battery manufactured by Duralast. It’s part of their high-performance Gold series designed for vehicles with bigger engines and more electrical accessories. The “H6” refers to the battery group size, which indicates the dimensions of the battery. The “DLG” stands for deep-cycle and long-life design.

Some key features of the Duralast Gold H6 DLG:

• 850 cold cranking amps for reliable starts even in cold weather
• Designed to hold a charge longer through repeated starts and stops
• Spillproof and maintenance-free design
• Durable polypropylene case resists vibration damage
• Backed by a 24-month free replacement warranty

The Duralast Gold line is engineered to outperform basic economy batteries and provide optimal starting power, long life and durability even under extreme conditions. The H6 DLG is ideal for full-size sedans, SUVs and trucks with V6 or V8 engines.

Where Can I Buy the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG is sold exclusively at AutoZone stores across the United States. You can use the store locator on AutoZone.com to find a location near you.

Once you’re at the store, ask an employee to look up the specific Duralast Gold H6 DLG for your vehicle. You’ll need to provide the battery group size and cold cranking amps (CCA) rating. The employee can make sure you get the right battery for optimal fit and performance.

If you prefer to shop online, you can order the Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery on AutoZone.com and select store pickup. This allows you to get the battery size you need while still having an AutoZone employee install it for free.

What Are the Specifications of the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

Here are the key specifications for the Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery:

• Group size: H6
• Volts: 12V
• Cold cranking amps: 850
• Cranking amps: 1150
• Reserve capacity: 170 minutes
• Length: 13 in
• Width: 7-7/8 in
• Height: 7-7/8 in
• Terminal type: Top post

The 850 cold cranking amps rating means this battery can provide a strong 850 amps for 30 seconds at 0°F to start your engine easily even in extreme cold. The impressive 170 minute reserve capacity means the battery can continuously deliver 25 amps for 170 minutes without dropping below 10.5 volts.

It’s designed to handle high electrical loads in larger luxury vehicles, trucks and SUVs with additional accessories. But it can also serve as an excellent upgrade over the factory battery in any car for longer life and improved starting capability.

How Long Does the Duralast Gold H6 DLG Last?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG is engineered to last much longer than cheaper economy batteries. Here are some factors that affect its overall lifespan:

• Driving habits: Short trips and frequent starts sap the battery over time. Highway driving charges the battery more efficiently.
• Climate: Extreme hot and cold weather wears down car batteries faster. Moderate climates prolong battery life.
• Vehicle size: Batteries in trucks and SUVs work harder due to larger engines. Small sedan batteries tend to last longer.
• Age: On average, car batteries last 3-5 years. High-quality batteries like the H6 DLG can last 5-7 years or longer.

With proper maintenance and favorable conditions, the Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery can provide 5-6 years of reliable service life. The spillproof design avoids corrosion and the lead-calcium alloy withstands deep cycling. It’s backed by a generous 24-month free replacement warranty for your peace of mind.

What Vehicles Use the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG is designed to fit a wide range of popular vehicles including:

• Ford F-150, F-250, Expedition
• Chevy Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban
• Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, 4Runner, Sequoia
• Nissan Titan, Armada
• Dodge Ram trucks
• GMC Sierra, Yukon
• Jeep Wrangler

It’s ideal for full-size trucks and SUVs with V8 or V6 engines. The H6 size also fits many passenger cars like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. Make sure to verify the correct group size, CCA and dimensions for your vehicle before purchase.

How Do I Install the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

Here are some tips for properly installing your new Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery:

• Wear eye protection and gloves since you’ll be working with corrosive battery acid.
• Use a wrench to loosen and remove the cables from your old battery. Always disconnect the negative cable first.
• Take out the old battery and clean any corrosion on the battery tray or connections.
• Place the new H6 DLG battery into the tray and secure it.
• Attach the positive cable first, then the negative cable. Ensure they are tight.
• Coat the terminals with an anti-corrosion spray for added protection.
• Dispose of the old battery properly at a recycling center.

AutoZone provides free battery installation if you purchase there. Their technicians can handle the battery swap quickly and ensure proper setup. Just make an installation appointment when you order online or buy in the store.

Is the Duralast Gold H6 DLG Worth It?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG usually costs $150-$250 depending on promotions and pricing fluctuations. That’s notably higher than an economy battery. But it does offer advantages that can make it worth the investment:

• Superior cold cranking amps – 850 CCA vs 500-700 for cheap batteries
• Longer life – Up to 2X the lifespan of basic batteries
• Warranty – 24-month free replacement vs just 12-18 months
• Maintenance-free – No need to check water levels
• Reliable starts – Even after years of use and in harsh weather

For anyone who values dependability and performance over upfront cost, the Duralast Gold H6 DLG is worth buying. It can help avoid being stranded with a dead battery and the expense of constantly replacing cheaper batteries that fail sooner. Think of the extra cost as an investment in worry-free driving and convenience.

What is the Warranty on the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery is backed by an excellent 24-month free replacement warranty. This is double the warranty length you get from basic economy batteries.

If the battery fails within the first 24 months after purchase, you can return it to any AutoZone store for a free replacement. Just provide your original receipt as proof of purchase.

This extensive warranty demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the Duralast Gold battery’s durability and lifespan. Very few car batteries fail within the first two years when properly maintained, so the long coverage provides great consumer protection.

The warranty is void if damage is due to abuse or improper installation. Physical damage and normal wear and tear are not covered either. But defects in materials and workmanship are fully warrantied. Make sure to register your battery online to simplify any future warranty claims.

How Do I Maintain the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG requires only minimal maintenance thanks to its sealed, spillproof design:

• Check the charge monthly using a battery tester. Recharge as needed to keep it from dropping below 12.4 volts.
• Clean the top of the battery periodically with a damp cloth to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Avoid spraying the sides or terminals.
• Ensure the battery terminals are coated with petroleum jelly or anti-corrosion spray.
• When connecting the battery cables, tighten them securely to reduce resistance.
• Avoid overcharging, undercharging, excessive heat and physical damage which shorten battery life.
• If your vehicle will be parked for weeks, consider using a battery tender to maintain proper charge level.

The H6 DLG is a “zero maintenance” battery, so you never need to check the fluid levels or add distilled water. The lack of maintenance requirements is a major perk of this battery.

How Much Does the Duralast Gold H6 DLG Cost?

The retail price for the Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery ranges from $150-$250. Pricing varies based on:

• Sales promotions at AutoZone
• Your specific vehicle’s battery group size
• Local supply and demand

Even at full price, the H6 DLG costs notably less than premium AGM and lithium car batteries which can run $300 and up. The Duralast Gold provides excellent value given its high performance and long service life.

You can often find discounts and rebates from AutoZone:

• Check for coupons on AutoZone.com and in promotional emails
• Ask about any current battery sales and promotions in the store
• Consider buying in winter when demand is lower for maximum savings

With strategic timing and available discounts, you can get the Duralast Gold battery for under $200 in many cases. That’s a worthwhile investment in years of trouble-free driving.

What Do Reviews Say About the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

The Duralast Gold line consistently earns high praise from professionals and consumers alike. Here are some key points from Duralast Gold battery reviews:

• “Starting power is phenomenal even in harsh weather.”
• “Long lifespan – these batteries just keep going year after year.”
• “The warranties are excellent and provide great peace of mind.”
• “They are worth the extra cost over cheap no-name batteries.”
• “Reliable performance even after 4-5 years of use.”

Actual customers rave over the strong cranking ability even in the cold winter months. Reviewers are also impressed by how long the batteries last compared to lower-tier options. Most agree Duralast Gold batteries are worth the higher price for their premium quality and durability.

How Does the Duralast Gold H6 DLG Compare to Other Batteries?

The major competitors to the Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery include:

• Interstate Megatron Plus – Similar performance and life at a comparable price point
• **Optima RedTop ** – More expensive AGM design good for frequent stops/starts
• AC Delco Professional – Well-rated but only 12 month warranty
• Bosch Platinum – Higher cost for same 800 CCA and 18 month warranty

The Duralast Gold beats lower-end batteries on power, longevity and warranty coverage. Premium AGM batteries edge out the H6 DLG on cycling capacity and temperature resistance. But they cost much more.

Overall, the Duralast Gold offers the best blend of performance, longevity and value in its price range. The combination of 850 cold cranking amps and 24 month warranty is hard to beat for under $250.

Can the Duralast Gold H6 DLG be Used in Cold Weather?

Absolutely! The Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery is engineered to perform exceptionally well in cold conditions.

Its 850 cold cranking amp rating means it can crank your engine with 850 amps of power for 30 seconds even at 0° F temperatures. Very few batteries can match that level of starting power in frigid winter weather.

In comparison, many cheaper batteries are only rated down to 32°F. Their cranking capacity drops off significantly when temperatures plummet below freezing. But the Duralast Gold H6 DLG is designed to start your vehicle reliably even in bitter cold thanks to robust internal components and ample power reserves.

The spillproof design also prevents freezing and cracking issues that can plague basic vented batteries when exposed to repeated freeze/thaw cycles. As long as you keep it properly charged, the Duralast Gold H6 DLG will deliver worry-free, high-powered starts no matter how low the mercury dips.

What are the Dimensions of the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG has the following dimensions:

• Length: 13 inches
• Width: 7 7/8 inches
• Height: 7 7/8 inches
• Terminal type: Top post

These specifications correspond to the standard H6 group size. Always confirm the correct dimensions for your particular vehicle by referring to its owner’s manual.

The physical size of batteries can vary slightly between group sizes and manufacturers. Measuring the tray in your vehicle before purchase ensures you get the optimal fit for hassle-free installation.

With its standard H6 size, the Duralast Gold DLG battery provides the right capacity and power output while still fitting properly into a wide range of popular vehicles. The compact case design maximizes storage within the space constraints of most engine bays.

How Do I Recycle the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

When this long-lasting battery finally reaches end of life, recycle it properly:

• Many retailers like AutoZone accept old battery returns for recycling when you purchase a new one.
• Your local recycling center likely takes automotive lead-acid batteries.
• Some auto parts stores will take batteries for recycling even without a new purchase.

Proper disposal is important since car batteries contain corrosive acid and toxic heavy metals like lead. Try to avoid landfill disposal if possible.

When transporting used batteries, treat them with care and keep the terminals covered. This prevents short circuits, sparks or contact with the caustic acid inside.

With its durable construction, the Duralast Gold H6 DLG can potentially be reconditioned and reused rather than recycled. Either way, be sure to give this impressive battery an environmentally responsible second life.

What are Common Issues with the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG earns praise for its reliability and durability. But here are a few potential downsides based on customer reviews:

• Faster self-discharge: May lose charge quicker than premium AGM designs when vehicle is parked.
• Lifespan varies: Quality is inconsistent – some batteries last over 5 years, others under 3 years.
• May not fit some vehicles: Taller height excludes it from some applications. Dimensions should be confirmed.
• Cold weather performance still limited: Starts decline below -20°F despite 850 CCA rating.
• Occasional premature failure: Small percentage of batteries have early failure covered by warranty.

While one of the better options in its price range, the Duralast Gold line is not without flaws. Maintaining proper charge level to combat self-discharge and verifying dimensions for fitment can help maximize your satisfaction.

How Do I Charge the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

Here are some tips for effective charging and maintenance of your Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery:

• Use a quality 12V battery charger at the standard 2-10 amp trickle charge setting.
• Monitor voltage periodically and recharge when it drops below 12.4V to keep the battery topped off.
• Clean the terminals first to allow optimal current flow into the battery.
• Charge fully until the voltage stops increasing to ensure maximum capacity.
• Don’t leave on the charger for days on end or overcharge the battery.
• Consider a maintainer like the Optimate to provide occasional desulfating pulses.
• Always disconnect both battery cables before charging to avoid damage.
• Never use a fast charger or excessively high charging current.

Following the proper charging procedures will keep your Duralast Gold battery running at peak performance and extend its service life for years of like-new cranking power.

Is the Duralast Gold H6 DLG Maintenance Free?

Yes, the Duralast Gold H6 DLG is a completely maintenance free battery. Its sealed absorbed glass mat (AGM) design means you never need to check or add fluid levels as you would with old-fashioned flooded batteries.

Other advantages of the maintenance-free construction:

• Prevents dangerous acid spills and corrosion issues
• No need to monitor electrolyte levels
• More resistant to damage from vibration and impacts
• Usable in a wider range of mounting orientations

This hassle-free operation is perfect for vehicle owners who want reliable battery power without time consuming upkeep. No more buying distilled water and cracking open vents!

The Duralast Gold H6 DLG does still require occasional charging and cleaning to maximize its lifespan. But you’ll never miss the days of refilling flooded batteries on a regular basis. The minimal maintenance is one more reason to choose this modern battery for your vehicle.

Does the Duralast Gold H6 DLG Have Good Cranking Power?

With an impressive 850 cold cranking amp rating, the Duralast Gold H6 DLG delivers phenomenal starting power even in cold weather. The average economy battery has 500-700 CCA.

In real world terms, the Duralast Gold’s ample cranking amps mean:

• Faster, stronger engine cranking to get you moving quickly
• Fewer extended cranks or dreaded click-click-click sounds
• Excellent starting capability even down to 0°F temperatures
• Reserve power to handle vehicles with large, high-compression engines

Any driver who has dealt with the frustration of slow winter morning starts will love the robust cranking capability of the H6 DLG battery. No more freezing your fingers off pumping the gas pedal just to get the engine to turn over!

The Duralast Gold line is designed by Clarios, formerly Johnson Controls, a leader in automotive battery technology. Their expertise ensures this battery delivers power beyond what you would expect from its reasonable price point.

Are there any Safety Precautions for using the Duralast Gold H6 DLG?

Exercise these safety measures when handling the Duralast Gold H6 DLG:

• Wear eye protection and gloves since batteries contain corrosive acid
• Disconnect the negative terminal first when removing the battery to avoid sparks
• Avoid placing tools or metallic objects on the battery which could cause short circuits
• Charge in a well-ventilated area and keep away from flames or sparks
• Do not attempt to jump start a frozen battery as it could rupture or explode
• Read all warning labels and instructions
• If acid contacts skin or eyes, flush immediately with water and seek medical attention
• Follow proper battery disposal and recycling procedures
• Prevent children and pets from contacting used batteries

With basic precautions, sealed absorbed glass mat batteries like the H6 DLG are quite safe for automotive use. Their lack of free-flowing acid reduces hazards and maintenance hassles. But batteries still deserve healthy respect to prevent injury.

In Summary

Hopefully this comprehensive buying guide gives you all the details needed to choose the Duralast Gold H6 DLG battery with confidence. Its robust 850 cold cranking amps, long service life and generous warranty make it one of the best choices on the market for a broad range of vehicles.

While a bit pricier than basic options, the Duralast Gold H6 DLG earns its keep with years of trouble-free starting power. For peace of mind on those cold winter mornings, it’s the perfect upgrade over the stock battery that came with your car or truck.