“Group 24” refers to a standardized battery size classification defined by the Battery Council International (BCI). It specifies physical dimensions, terminal placement, and voltage (typically 12V) to ensure compatibility with vehicles and equipment. Group 24 batteries are commonly used in cars, boats, and RVs, offering a balance between capacity (60-85 Ah) and space efficiency.
What Is a Group Size 24 Battery?
How Is the BCI Group Number System Organized?
The BCI group system categorizes batteries by length, width, height, terminal type/location, and application. Numbers like “24” indicate size class, while letters (e.g., 24F) denote terminal variations. This standardization lets manufacturers design vehicles around predictable power source dimensions, ensuring cross-brand compatibility for replacements.
The numbering system follows a logical pattern where lower numbers generally indicate smaller batteries. For example, Group 24 sits between Group 22 (compact cars) and Group 27 (large marine/RV) in the size hierarchy. Terminal variations are particularly crucial – reversed terminals (denoted by suffixes like “R”) prevent installation errors in vehicles with specific cable routing. BCI updates standards every five years to accommodate evolving automotive designs, with the latest revision adding specifications for lithium-ion form factors within existing group numbers.
Top 5 best-selling Group 14 batteries under $100
| Product Name | Short Description | Amazon URL |
|---|---|---|
|
Weize YTX14 BS ATV Battery  |
Maintenance-free sealed AGM battery, compatible with various motorcycles and powersports vehicles. | View on Amazon |
|
UPLUS ATV Battery YTX14AH-BS  |
Sealed AGM battery designed for ATVs, UTVs, and motorcycles, offering reliable performance. | View on Amazon |
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Weize YTX20L-BS High Performance  |
High-performance sealed AGM battery suitable for motorcycles and snowmobiles. | View on Amazon |
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Mighty Max Battery ML-U1-CCAHR  |
Rechargeable SLA AGM battery with 320 CCA, ideal for various powersport applications. | View on Amazon |
|
Battanux 12N9-BS Motorcycle Battery  |
Sealed SLA/AGM battery for ATVs and motorcycles, maintenance-free with advanced technology. | View on Amazon |
What Are the Exact Dimensions of a Group 24 Battery?
Standard Group 24 dimensions measure 10.25-10.5″ long x 6.75-6.875″ wide x 8.75-9″ tall. Weight ranges 40-50 lbs depending on construction (flooded: heavier; AGM/gel: lighter). Some marine/RV variants may exceed 9″ height. Always verify specs against your equipment’s battery tray size and hold-down requirements.
Which Vehicles Typically Use Group 24 Batteries?
Common applications include mid-size sedans (Honda Accord, Toyota Camry), compact SUVs, marine engines (single-engine boats), and Class C RVs. Their 70-85 Ah capacity suits moderate electrical demands. Not recommended for diesel trucks with high cold-cranking amp (CCA) needs or luxury vehicles requiring H6/H7 size batteries.
| Vehicle Type | Typical Group 24 Usage | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Primary starting battery | 4-6 years |
| Marine | Dual-purpose starting/deep cycle | 3-5 years |
| RVs | Auxiliary house battery | 2-4 years |
How Does Temperature Affect Group 24 Battery Performance?
Cold (below 32°F) reduces CCA by 30-40% in flooded batteries; AGM fares better (20% loss). Heat above 77°F accelerates electrolyte loss (flooded) and AGM grid corrosion. Ideal operating range: 50-80°F. Use insulation blankets in extreme climates. Note that lithium Group 24 variants operate from -4°F to 140°F without performance loss.
Temperature compensation is critical for charging. For every 10°F above 77°F, reduce charging voltage by 0.03V/°F to prevent overcharging. In sub-freezing conditions, flooded batteries require 14.8V charging versus 13.8V at room temperature. Thermal management becomes crucial in engine compartments where under-hood temperatures can reach 150°F – consider remote-mounted batteries or heat shields for optimal performance.
What Are the Recycling Options for Group 24 Batteries?
98% of lead-acid batteries are recycled. Auto parts stores (AutoZone, O’Reilly) offer core charges ($10-15). Specialty recyclers like Call2Recycle handle lithium types. Never landfill—lead is highly toxic. Recycling process: Neutralize acid, smelt lead grids into ingots, reform plastic cases. A typical Group 24 battery contains 18-22 lbs of recyclable lead.
Recycling efficiency has reached industry-leading levels where 99% of lead and 90% of sulfuric acid gets recovered. Many states mandate retailer take-back programs, with 38 states requiring battery sellers to accept used units. For lithium batteries, specialized facilities extract cobalt and lithium carbonate using hydrometallurgical processes. Always check local regulations – some municipalities prohibit curbside disposal due to fire risks from damaged lithium cells.
“While Group 24 remains popular, we’re seeing a 27% annual growth in lithium conversions. A LiFePO4 Group 24 battery lasts 8-10 years versus 3-5 for lead-acid, with 50% weight reduction. However, consumers must update charging systems—alternators designed for lead-acid can overheat lithium batteries without proper DC-DC converters.” — Automotive Electrical Systems Expert
FAQs
- Can I use a Group 24 battery in a Group 35 slot?
- No—Group 35 is 1.5″ shorter. Improper fit risks vibration damage and terminal contact issues.
- How long do Group 24 batteries last?
- 3-5 years for lead-acid; 8-12 years for lithium, depending on discharge cycles and maintenance.
- Are all Group 24 batteries dual-purpose (starting/deep cycle)?
- No—marine variants often are, but automotive versions prioritize starting amps. Check manufacturer specs.