I think I need to replace my 98 Tercel battery. It's the Panasonic one with the status blue red eye. I have used the local Canadian Tire car batteries with Lifetime Guarentees on previous car only to change them every two years as they die out prematurely. The Sears Die Hards and Delcos have been no better with my brothers GMC products. I use synthetic oil (Mobil 1) and the Tercel turns over but let the 4 way flashers go for 2 minutes it needs assistance to start. Do I need another Panasonic battery or is there a dependable nationwide brand. I beginning to believe that new battteries are recycled old ones.(An urban legend?)

 

I take it you've had your charging system checked thoroughly? I have had experiences with both that you named, and have no complaints ? Am I just lucky, or are you guys getting all the lemons.? (ha-ha) Have you asked the nearest Toyota dealer, what size is recommended by Toyota, as in ( amp hour rating, and cold cranking amps) then compare to what you've been buying ? Have you had starter amp draw tested ? Any unusual conditions like excessive heat, or cold for long periods of time?
Tested for battery drain when engine shut off? Just some ideas/questions.

 

An abused battery is going to die eventually no matter how good of a brand it is.

Changing a battery every two years is a bit excessive. I do realize that was on a different car but it may indicate you just do not take care of them and/or think that a new battery is always the solution. Suuuure, it may fix it temporarily.

When is the last time you charged that battery using an external charger? Or desulphated it? Had your alternator checked?

I've got 11 batteries in my living room that I use for power backup purposes. (They all have name tags too, but that is beside the point -- suffice it to say I am a-rententive about my batteries.) Many different brands and I can't say I like any brand over another. In fact within a given brand, the different models may be made by totally different companies. My absolute favorite battery is an 8 year old EverStart 24-3N which has held up like a champ, even with frequent deep cycles. But the EverStart sitting right next to it is little better than a really heavy paperweight.

Unless you want to shell out for an Optima or whatever I'd say just but whatever you want and take care of it and it will take care of you. Or just whip that battery of yours back into shape.

 

The Panasonic is the original, my wife's 2005 matrix has a smaller one physically. It' been checked yearly for water level the American cars had their charging systems checked
each time it was replaced as well as every three months level checks. I suspect that low efficiency starter motors may be the real culprits. Terminals are also checked. In fact, my brothers GMC'S I have observed cranking that virtually comes to a stop only to resume momentarily later. I figure this is what kills his batteries!

 

sounds as if you need your charging system checked. if you live in a COLD climate, you may need more cranking amps. a battery with a 5 yr. warranty will save money if it goes out every 2 yrs.! lifetime warranties should MEAN lifetime!