BCI Group 96R Batteries - Dimensions, Features, and Recommendations

BCI Group 96R Batteries are almost exclusively used as starting batteries in cars and other similar applications where affordable and reliable starting batteries that can provide 500-600 CCA are required.

As such, most BCI group 96R batteries are wet/flooded lead-acid batteries, with only a very few AGM, Gel-Cell, or lithium batteries being present on the market. If such batteries are required, one must look for AGM, Gel-Cell, and/or lithium batteries of similarly sized BCI groups, taking into account battery size, capacity, terminal types, terminal orientation, hold-down type/shape, etc.

Updated: September 26, 2022.

BCI Group 96R Battery Features and Specifications

BCI Group 96R Batteries feature physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 9 1/2 x 6 7/8 x 6 7/8 inches (9.5 x 6.9375 x 6.9375 inches, 242 x 175 x 175 mm) with the positive terminal on the right side of the battery.

Since they are mostly used as car batteries, group 96R batteries are designed as lead-acid, wet/flooded starting batteries that are able to provide very strong currents for a short period of time, but should not be used for deep cycle applications.

The following comparison chart lists some of the most popular group 96R batteries with their most important features and specifications:

Although their capacity is not that important, group 96R batteries feature a nominal (20h) capacity of around 50-55Ah and a Reserve Capacity of 85 to 95 minutes.

Since they are used as starting batteries, a good 96R battery should have a CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) value of around 590-600 Amps and a CA value of 725 or more Amps.

Despite being lead-acid batteries, these batteries are not heavy as larger group 27 or group 31 batteries, they weigh 30-40 pounds (~13.6-18.1 kg) and can be carried to shorter distances via built-in handles (if present) by a single adult.

To help with maintenance, some of the group 96R batteries, although being essentially wet lead-acid batteries, are built as enhanced wet lead-acid batteries requiring no maintenance or almost no maintenance.

Such batteries feature safety valves, just like AGM and Gel-Cell batteries, preventing the hydrogen and oxygen from escaping the battery unless critical pressure is reached.

Nonetheless, even such enhanced flooded batteries should operate only in an upside position.

AGM Group 96R Batteries

AGM group 96R batteries are rare, even though such batteries are practically spill-proof, maintenance-free batteries.

One of such batteries is Odyssey ODP-AGM96R (96R-600) battery, which is an excellent starting battery that also tolerates deep discharge applications - it is a true dual-purpose battery, like many other Odyssey batteries.

Odyssey ODP-AGM96R (96R-600) battery features a nominal 20h capacity of 52 Ah, RC value of 90 minutes, CCA rating of 600 Amps, and CA rating of 700 Amps. Also, it is one of the heaviest group 96R batteries weighing 40.4 pounds (~18.3 kg).

For vehicles requiring a simple starting battery, Odyssey ODP-AGM96R (96R-600) battery is probably an overkill, but for cars that need starting battery that will also power other devices like pumps, winches, strong audio, and similar, Odyssey ODP-AGM96R (96R-600) battery is a better choice than "simple" starting group 96R battery.

How to Charge Group 96R Battery

Group 96R batteries should be kept fully charged via the car's charging system - if the battery is regularly discharged and fails to crank the engine, take your car to the repair shop to diagnose the issues.

However, if the group 96R battery must be recharged for whatever other reason, be sure to use an advanced AGM lead-acid battery charger with a charging current of 4-7 Amps that also features separate charging modes for wet/flooded, AGM, and/or Gel-Cell batteries and temperature probe.

When charging the battery with such a battery charger, be sure to set the proper battery type (wet/flooded, AGM, etc.).

Also, if the battery is wet/flooded with direct access to the cells, check the electrolyte level both prior to and after charging, and if required, add distilled water where required.

Group 96R Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the most common Frequently Asked Questions about Group 96R and similar batteries.

What size is a 96R battery?

Group 96R batteries feature physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 9 1/2 x 6 7/8 x 6 7/8 inches (9.5 x 6.875 x 6.875 inches, 242 x 175 x 175 mm). Also, they feature the positive terminal on the right side of the battery.

What battery is the same as 96R?

There are batteries that are "same" as 96R batteries.

However, there are batteries that are similar in dimensions, but they also may differ in terminal orientation and type, base hold-down type, lifting edge, and other "little" but sometimes very important details.

Generally, Group 90 (T5) batteries feature very similar (the same) dimensions.

Can I use a different group-size battery?

It is not recommended to replace an old battery featuring one battery group with a new battery featuring another battery group.

But, if absolutely required, consider Group 90 (group T5) batteries. Also, if You have a little bit more space, consider Group 97R (H6), which are a little bit longer and higher.

Does battery size make a difference?

Of course. Larger batteries feature higher capacity and better discharge performances, especially CCA (Cold Cranking Amps). But, larger batteries may have issues fitting the battery compartment intended for a smaller battery.

Smaller batteries may require an additional spacer to fit properly into the larger battery compartment. Also, it is questionable if the smaller battery is strong enough to provide the same or better discharge performance than the old battery.

Long Story Short: BCI Group 96R Batteries are relatively lightweight starting lead-acid batteries used often as SLI (Starting, Lighting, and Ignition) car batteries.

Although many modern wet/flooded lead-acid batteries are designed as maintenance-free batteries, if possible, periodically check the electrolyte level and if required, add some distilled water.

 For more information about these and similar batteries, feel free to check our The Best Car Battery - Brands, Types, Features, and Specifications article.