This isn’t a very exciting subject, but knowing the Broncos (and everything automotive these days) are sensitive to voltage, I decided to preemptively replace my battery. AI was a good tool to compare options and brands using price, performance and longevity as an initial filter on choices.
A fellow GLFWDA member and battery engineering and testing expert for one of those “other” brands was my human subject matter expert. The answer was unequivocal- Deka (Penn National) is the only brand he currently recommends. That matched up with my AI information and reaffirmed the answer. Several retail brands are made by them, including Sam’s Club/DieHard and NAPA, at least for the replacement model for my 21 2.7l Badlands.
I am a NAPA guy generally and they had the battery in stock. Bonus points, they had a 20% off code, making them within $6 of the lowest price I could find for a local source.
Here is a link for reference- https://www.napaonline.com/en/p/BAT9894R
I checked online for the process, to make sure I understood anything specific to the Bronco for replacement (different manufacturers and models can require specific process steps). Tools required- 10, 12 and 13mm(1/2”) sockets. Pry bar for the battery clamps and a battery post cleaner.
It was an easy install and so far so good. It took about 10 minutes and now I have confidence that my battery is up to snuff for the next 4-5 years of adventures.
Lots of us will be following needing to complete this same maintenance (and some likely already have, 4.5 years was a great run for the factory battery). Hopefully this information helps when you need to pull the trigger on a new battery for you Bronco!
I will report back with any notes good or bad.
