Can I Replace an AGM Battery with Lead Acid?

Did your vehicle come from the factory with a flooded lead acid battery? If so, you can upgrade to an AGM battery and reap the benefits of its more durable, maintenance-free design. When the AGM battery dies, you can replace it with another AGM or go back to a normal battery. Keep in mind that AGM and flooded batteries are both lead-acid: the chief difference between them is that flooded batteries have liquid acid between the lead plates while AGM batteries hold the acid in absorbent fiberglass mats.

For deep cycling applications such as a boat or RV, you can usually swap freely between flooded and AGM batteries. However, you should not use a flooded battery in tight areas that can’t ventilate well. Flooded batteries can release acid fumes, so avoid using them in enclosed areas where they can be potentially dangerous to occupants. Keep in mind that these two battery designs have different charging characteristics, so make sure you use the correct charger or tender for your battery. Most modern battery chargers have separate settings for AGM and flooded designs.

If your vehicle came from the factory with an AGM battery, we advise replacing it with another AGM battery when the time comes. AGM batteries are often used as original equipment when high heat tolerances are required. This is especially true of batteries mounted in tight, confined areas. While you might find a similar battery group size for less money in a flooded design, the battery will be more prone to overheating, which can significantly shorten its lifespan.

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