13 best battery terminals

Battery terminals are crucial components in a vehicle's electrical system, connecting the battery to various electrical components and systems. They are essential for transmitting electrical power from the battery to the rest of the vehicle. Here's what you should know about battery terminals:

  1. Purpose: Battery terminals serve as the connection points between the battery and the vehicle's electrical system. They allow the flow of electrical current from the battery to power the starter motor, lights, ignition, and other electrical components.

  2. Types: There are two primary types of battery terminals:

    • Top-Post Terminals: These are the most common type and are found on most car batteries. They have a cylindrical shape and are usually made of lead. They are secured to the battery with a bolt or nut.
    • Side-Post Terminals: These are typically found in some vehicles, often as an alternative to top-post terminals. Side-post terminals are flat and bolted or clamped to the side of the battery.
  3. Materials: Battery terminals are commonly made from lead, which is a good conductor of electricity. Some aftermarket terminals are made of materials like brass, which can offer improved conductivity and corrosion resistance.

  4. Terminal Ends: Terminal ends are the parts of the terminal that connect to the battery posts. They are typically made of lead and can be prone to corrosion over time, which can impede electrical conductivity. Cleaning or replacing terminal ends may be necessary to maintain a good connection.

  5. Corrosion: Corrosion can build up on battery terminals over time due to exposure to the elements and battery off-gassing.Corrosion can hinder electrical conductivity and should be cleaned regularly using a wire brush and a mixture of baking soda and water.

  6. Terminal Covers: Some battery terminals come with protective covers or boots. These help prevent accidental short circuits and protect against corrosion.

  7. Replacement: If battery terminals become heavily corroded or damaged, they may need to be replaced. Replacement terminals are widely available and are typically designed to fit standard battery posts.

  8. Terminal Accessories: Various accessories are available to enhance the performance and convenience of battery terminals, including terminal protectors, terminal cleaners, and anti-corrosion washers.

  9. Proper Tightening: Battery terminals should be tightened securely to ensure a good electrical connection. Over-tightening can damage the terminal, while under-tightening can result in a loose connection and electrical issues.

  10. Safety Precautions: When working with battery terminals, it's important to observe safety precautions. Always disconnect the negative (black) terminal first and reconnect it last when servicing the battery to reduce the risk of electrical shock and sparks.

Regular maintenance of battery terminals, including cleaning and tightening, can help ensure reliable electrical connections and prolong the life of your vehicle's battery and electrical components.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best battery terminals on the market
  

SUNMORN Battery Terminal Connector, 0/4/8/10 Gauge Heavy Duty AMP Car Battery Terminals Connectors, Shims Positive & Negative, with Special Tools, 1 Pair

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • ☀ 【Battery Terminal】Heavy Duty High Quality Car Audio Amp Battery Terminals with Special Tools, Nickelplate.
  • ☀ 【Universal Fit】Universal battery terminal comes with a positive or negative adapter suitable for most models battery.
  • ☀ 【EASY INSTALL】2/4/8/10 Gauge Inputs. Gold Screws Terminals Hold Cables Securely in Place. Easy to replace, fast installation, good conductivity.
  • ☀ 【Material Durable】Strong Electrical Conductivity, Super Corrosion Resistance, Reduce Current Transmission Loss.Good workmanship.
  • ☀ 【Excellent Service】Package Include 2 x Battery Terminals Connectors, 2 x Adjustable Shims, 2 x Protective cover, 2 x Wrench. If you are not 100% satisfied with your order, we will refund you, no questions asked! !

User questions & answers

Question: Image says that 4 gage is .59" diameter but it isn't. 4awg has a .204" diameter. my wire is .5" diameter which is 250mcm. will that fit
Answer: I've got a 2017 Ram 1500 and the XL fits perfectly.
Question: Are these battery terminal connectors made in america? is this an american company
Answer: Hi, Thank you for your question. The recommended size for GMC Canyon 2019 is Medium. Please contact us right away if you have any problem with the size after your purchase. Best Regards,
Question: I see the video of the negative not tightening. I have the same problem. What have others done to make it tight
Answer: Approximately 31”.
Question: The title says 0 guage. the description says the smallest awg is 2 guage. which is it
Answer: I just read the instructions that came with the shied. It is like a twisting motion to fold up. Hopefully you got the instructions

Product features

Battery Terminals Features:

Clearly Marked with (+) Positive or (-) Negative for Easy Polarity Identification

Satin Nickel Finish

2 Gauge Input

4 Gauge Input

8/10 Gauge Inputs

Gold Screws terminals hold cables securely in place.

Durable

Good workmanship, strong conductivity, heavy lead content is high, accounting for 82% of the value.

Universal Fit

the positive negative battery terminal clamp is suitable for most models battery, easy to replace, fast installation, good conductivity.

Heavy Duty

Enhance your car's under-bonnet appearance, or complete your in-car stereo installation. Ideal for advanced audio technology, heavy-load lighting or power inverter charging systems, heavy-duty and commercial use.

Package Include

2 x Battery Terminals Heavy Duty (with Shims Positive and Negative), Nickelplate.

2 x Protective cover

2 x Wrench

InstallGear 0/4/8 or 10 Gauge Battery Terminals with Shims - Positive and Negative (+/-)

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • Two 0/4 Gauge Inputs
  • Two 8/10 Gauge Inputs
  • Screws Designed to Make a Strong Secure Connection
  • Includes (+) Positive and (-) Negative Terminals with Spacer Shims
  • Nickel and Gold Construction for Excellent Transfer and Great Design

User questions & answers

Question: What kind of metal are these made of? Steel
Answer: So if you look at the photo again... it says that 0 gauge is .59". You are able to remove the inner golden colored sleeve to accommodate the larger size. To answer your question, yes your .50 should fit fine. I will suggest that you swap the bolts that hold the clamps... they are not great. Decent construction otherwise though.
Question: Can you put both the positive cable for the regular car cable plus sound system and light bars or is that too much
Answer: Hahaha... No. No they are not.
Question: Does this fit 2016 Subaru Legacy
Answer: I used the smallest amount of JB Weld on the nut and attached it to the terminal. I let it cure a full 24 hours, slipped the lock washer over the hex bolt. Then installed on battery post with hex head exposed. It worked the first time. But I'm not looking forward to trying it a second time. It's really a shame because, but for this design flaw, it's a really well made product that solves a niche problem very well.
Question: Does the positive terminal come with a cover
Answer: I've got skyhigh 1/0 wire to fit

Product features

Battery Terminals

  • Clearly Marked with (+) Positive or (-) Negative for Easy Polarity Identification
  • Satin Nickel Finish
  • Two 0/4 Gauge Inputs
  • Two 8/10 Gauge Input
  • IMPORTANT - PLEASE NOTE: the gold spacer must be removed to accept 1/0 gauge wire!

Spacer Shims

  • Includes 2 Adjustable Shims
  • Satin Nickel Finish

SAE/JIS Standard Sized

  • (+) Positive Terminal is Deisgned for a 17.5mm Tapering Post
  • (-) Negative Terminal is Designed for a 15.9mm Tapering Post

Ampper Brass Battery Terminals Connectors Clamps, Top Post Battery Terminal Protector Set for Marine Car Boat RV Vehicles (1 Pair)

Based on 809 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ampper brass battery terminals connectors set for marine car boat Rv vehicles.



Specifications:

1, 1 pair of military spec connectors for increased strength and reduced corrosion.

2, + and - are directly marked on the terminal.

3, Thread already on terminal, make it faster and easier for installation.

4, Used for battery extension, parallel connection, and ground connection.

5, Used for car, vehicle, Rv and boat, which have a standard top post battery.



Complete kits includes:

1 x positive terminal

1 x negative terminal



100% Satisfaction.

No reason for return or change.



Order it now!

  • 1 Pair of military spec positive and negative standard top post connectors for increased strength and reduced corrosion.
  • Made of brass, + and - are directly marked on the terminal.
  • Used for battery extension, parallel connection, and ground connection.
  • Thread already on terminal, make it faster and easier for installation.
  • Used for Car, Vehicle, RV and Boat, which have a standard top post battery (19 mm tapering positive & 17 mm tapering negative).

User questions & answers

Question: Will these work with 6awg wire
Answer: It's a coated piece so I'm not to sure what the actual material is, but it seems to be a durable kind holding up well..
Question: What is the gauge range that can be clamped? would an 8 awg be loose? thanks
Answer: Yes you can
Question: Anyone find plastic terminal caps that fit these
Answer: If the battery in your Subaru is a top post then most likely it will fit.
Question: What do the different size indicators mean
Answer: No it comes just as shown

Fastronix Military Spec Battery Terminal Top Post Kit

Based on 753 reviews Check latest price
  • USA Made Battery Terminals and Covers!
  • Positive and Negative Lead Alloy Battery Terminals for Increased Strength and Reduced Corrosion
  • 3/4"x 1-1/2" adhesive lined heatshrink 2 gauge 3/8" copper lugs
  • Red and Black Military Spec Battery Terminal Covers
  • All in One Kit for Multiple Battery Installations (Battery Cable Not Included)

User questions & answers

Question: Can anyone tell me what battery post size these are made for? My battery has 17.7mm/.692in dia. neg battery post and a 19.5mm/.761 in Positive post
Answer: Yes, will work well for 6 AWG wire.
Question: Will they work on a 02 chevy silverado 1500 ls with a 4.8l engine with a optima d34/78 yellowtop battery and a 5000w amp
Answer: Recommend 6 awg - 1/0 awg, so 8 awg will be loose, and you can double the wire to clamp if you want to used it on 8 awg wire.
Question: What is the plan if you do not have a crimper
Answer: No, but I just covered it with a piece of sheet rubber and a zip tie.
Question: Any issues with jumper cables or battery charger after installing these
Answer: the positive (+) side of battery terminal is a little larger in diameter 19mm than the negative (-) side 17mm in diameter . Both brass terminals are the same size and can be adjusted by wrenching on the supplied nut.

Product features

Cast Lead Terminals

  • Lead construction allows terminals to effectively grab battery terminals
  • Standard size fasteners (1/2" top / 9/16" bottom)

Installation Instructions:

  • Slide terminals over battery lugs
  • Slowly tighten short bolt until the terminal won't rotate.

Durable Adhesive Lined Heat Shrink

  • Fully seal your battery terminal connectors

Installation Instructions:

  • Slide heat shrink over crimped or soldered terminal.
  • Using heat gun on high temperature setting, evenly warm the heat shrink until it fully seals the connection.
  • Allow heat shrink to cool to room temperature.

Quality Copper Lugs

  • Designed for 2 gauge wire
  • 3/8" hole allows for installation on the long bolt of the terminal

Installation Instructions:

  • Strip approximately 1/2" of insulation from the battery cable.
  • Insert the battery cable into the terminal and crimp using a crimping tool.

Flexible Terminal Covers

  • Prevents corrosion and incidental shorting.
  • Gives professional look to your installation.

Installation Instructions:

  • Slide cover over wires to be installed
  • Install wires onto the long bolt of the terminal.
  • Slide covers over the terminals.

Schumacher BAF-MT1 Marine Terminal End

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Schumacher's Marine Terminal Ends are zinc plated and fit 3/8 inch and 5/16 inch posts. It is three times more conductive.

  • Zinc plated
  • Fit 3/8 inch and 5/16 inch posts
  • Three times more conductive

User questions & answers

Question: Are they copper,,,, Brass or what
Answer: It is normal for the posts to be different sizes so you don't get them mixed up. I do not have them in front of me to put calipers to, but I do know there is the appropriate size difference as well as them being marked for positive and negative accordingly.
Question: Is the wing nut on a stud or a through bolt
Answer: I believe a 02 silverado has side terminals on the battery. These are meant for top post batteries if your battery also has the top posts yes it will work but you may need to switch up your wiring terminals and/or the wiring itself if there's not enough slack to connect to the top post
Question: Will this fit a jeep grand cherokee
Answer: If you don't have a crimper you better get one, unless your power wires already have ring terminals on them then you're golden.
Question: are these a set of two
Answer: I keep an Optima battery tender on my Wagoneer all through the winter it’s clips are smaller than typical jumper cables and I have had no issues at all clamping to the posts with these installed.

Product features

Schumacher BAF-MT1 Top Post, Marine Terminal, 3/8"-5/16", Pair

  • Three times more conductivity
  • Zinc-plated
  • Fits 3/8 inch and 5/16 inch posts
  • Contents: Marine terminal ends

Universal Negative Positive Auto Battery Cable Terminal Top Post For Cars and Truck

Based on 77 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Universal Negative Positive Auto Battery Cable Terminal Top Post For Cars and Truck

  • Universal Negative Positive Auto Battery Cable Terminal Top Post For Cars and Truck
  • Production Years : 2000-2021. / For sale : 1 Red (+) 1 Black (-) terminal
  • The battery terminal between your car's battery and your car's ignition system is important. 100% brand new and high quality.
  • Battery terminal clamp for car battery. Adjustable the output gauge by the screw.
  • A replacement part easily installed. Fit for most car, boat, van battery.

Keadic 8Pcs Copper Battery Terminals Negative and Positive Car Battery Cable Terminal Clamps Connectors with Heavy Duty Copper Ring Terminal Assortment Kit for Car Van Carts

Based on 766 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keadic Copper Battery Terminals Connectors with Heavy Duty Copper Ring Terminal Assortment Kit Ideal for Car Van Carts



Specification:

♢♢Material: Copper & plastic

♢♢Size:Positive Battery Terminal:11/16"(17mm); Positive Battery Terminal: 5/8"(16mm); Copper Ring Terminal: 4cm × 3/8"

♢♢Application: car, van, carts,etc.



Package includes:

1 × Positive Battery Terminal

1 × Positive Battery Terminal

6 × Copper Ring Terminal

  • ➹【1.Kit Includes】: Our kit includes 1 pair of Negative and Positive Copper Battery Cable Terminal Clamps Connectors, 6 pieces Wire Lugs Battery Cable Ends Copper Eyelets Tubular Ring Terminal Connectors, packaged in a sturdy plastic case.
  • ➹【2.High Quality】: Our Battery Terminals Connectors are made of copper and has plastic cover, which is connected better than zinc alloy and has better corrosion-resistance.
  • ➹【3.Size】: Positive Battery Terminal Connectors:11/16"(17mm); Positive Battery Terminal Connectors: 5/8"(16mm); Copper Ring Terminal: 4cm × 3/8".
  • ➹【4.Applicated Scene】: It is used for automobiles, trucks and caravan battery terminal connector.
  • ➹【5.AFTER-SALE SERVICE】: If you have any problems with it ,please feel free to contact us and i will try my best to solve your problems as soon as possible until you are satisfied. We are highly confident with our products.you won't regret it if you got it!

User questions & answers

Question: What gauge wire can fit in those copper terminals
Answer: They are not copper. Likely a lead but zinc coated for corrosion
Question: Are these suposed to be soldered in or crimped
Answer: Wing nut is on a stud.
Question: What gauge wire are the lug connectors rated for
Answer: Yes, they should fit your Jeep Cherokee
Question: Will these fit a Wal-Mart everlast battery
Answer: Yes. It came as a set of two. Worked great!

Schumacher BAF-TTC Coated Top Terminal/Post Washer

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Schumacher's Coated Top Terminals/Post Washers are zinc plated. It is three times more conductive.

  • Zinc plated
  • Coated Top Terminals/Post Washers
  • Three times more conductive
  • Post washers

User questions & answers

Question: Would these be good to use on a 99 Honda Accord
Answer: 0
Question: Are these better quality than the OE replacements
Answer: Definitely crimped, if you don't have a really big pair of pliers, you can use a punch (or a blunt chisel) placed across the ends of the connectors, with a few good wacks from a hammer, to secure the wire.
Question: Can these be used to convert a group size 151r automotive battery for use in a garden tractor [group size u1 with lug type connectors
Answer: Rated, not sure but I stuffed 0 gauge into them and soldered. They work good. Terminals are a little thin but so far so good.
Question: It says its plated. What is it actually made of? Steel
Answer: These don’t fit anything

Product features

Schumacher BAF-TTC Coated Top Terminal/Post Washer

  • THREE TIMES MORE CONDUCTIVITY
  • Coated top terminals
  • Post washers
  • Zinc-plated
  • Contents: Coated top terminals Post washers

Road Power 903-10 Top Post Battery Terminal, 10-Pack, Chrome, 6 and 12-Volt

Road Power

Based on 179 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Road Power 903-10 Top Post Battery Terminal, 10-Pack, Chrome, 6 and 12-Volt. Fits 6 through 2 gauge cabling. Industry approvals: SAE standards. Constructed of magnesium-aluminum alloy. Intended use for: top post, side post, truck, and marine battery terminals. Side post adapters, charging posts, and several bolt combinations available. The Road Power (R) brand is a registered trademark of Coleman Cable Inc.

  • Fits 6 through 1 gauge cabling
  • Industry approvals: RoHs compliant
  • Constructed of Magnesium-Aluminum alloy with plated steel cable clamp and hardware
  • Intended use for 6 and 12-volt batteries : top post, side post, truck, and marine battery terminals
  • Side post adapters, charging posts, and several bolt combinations available

TKDMR 2Pairs Car Battery Cable Terminal Clamps-Connectors - Battery Terminal with Plastice Cover,Good Contact,Corrosion Resistance,Applicated in Car,Van.(Pure Copper Post Battery Terminal)

Based on 308 reviews Check latest price
  • √【Package Includes】: Our kit includes 2 pair of Negative and Positive Pure Copper Battery Cable Terminal Clamps Connectors and 6 pieces Pure Copper Wire Lugs Battery Cable Ends Copper Eyelets Tubular Ring Terminal Connectors.
  • √【High Quality】: Our Battery Terminals Connectors and Wire Lugs Eyelets Tubular Ring Terminal all are made of pure copper.And the Battery Terminals connectors has plastic cover, which is connected better than zinc alloy and has better corrosion-resistance.
  • √【Size】: Positive Battery Terminal Connectors:11/16"(17mm); Positive Battery Terminal Connectors: 5/8"(16mm); Copper Ring Terminal: 4cm × 3/8".
  • √【Applicated Scene】: It is used for automobiles, trucks and caravan battery terminal connector.
  • √【Quality Guarantee】: We are manufacturers. So don't worry about quality. We are highly confident with our products.you won't regret it if you got it! Buy it now!

User questions & answers

Question: Does this fit 2013 Fiat
Answer: well, would think that OE's are better made than these but so far so good. These are cheapies but the paint is nice and helps protect it. im still using these which i installed on my 1997 Ford Escort. would not use the whole pad (the pad is kinda pre-cut). They aren't corroding on me (yet). Been about 20k miles.
Question: I need a 8 gauge copper eyelet , what size are these
Answer: it all depends on the diameter of the terminals. i am not familiar with these group sizes
Question: whats the amps it is rated
Answer: It appears to be made out of lead and painted red and black. The bolts, nuts, and clamp plate are zinc coated steel.

Ampper Military Spec Battery Terminal End, Top Post Battery Terminal Set for Marine Car Boat RV and Vehicles (1 Pair)

Based on 615 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ampper military spec battery terminal top post set for marine car boat Rv and vehicles.



Specifications:

1, 1 pair of military spec connectors for increased strength and reduced corrosion.

2, Positive and negative are directly marked on the terminal.

3, Standard 3/8" diameter bolt for lugs mounting, also includes 5/16" diameter short bolt.

4, Each terminal can hold multiple battery cable.

5, Used for car, vehicle, Rv and boat, which have a standard top post battery.



Complete kits includes:

1 x positive terminal

1 x negative terminal



100% Satisfaction.

No reason for return or change.



Order it now!

  • 1 Pair of military spec lead alloy positive and negative standard top post connectors for increased strength and reduced corrosion.
  • Standard 3/8" diameter bolt for lugs mounting, also includes 5/16" diameter short bolt.
  • Positive and negative are directly marked on the terminal.
  • Each lead alloy terminal can hold multiple battery cable.
  • Used for car, vehicle, RV and boat, which have a standard top post battery (19 mm tapering positive & 17 mm tapering negative).

User questions & answers

Question: What is the max amperage these can handle
Answer: Yes these would be a good repair for your car if in need of new terminals
Question: Will these grip Trojan 6 volt posts that are about 15mm at top and taper wider at the bottom
Answer: These suck, don’t waste your time or money
Question: Is this made of cast lead
Answer: Based only on my experience as a long time auto tech these terminals can handle about 400 amps for short periods (2-4 seconds) at a time and 200 amps continuous.
Question: Aren't copper ones the best
Answer: Good for any normal size sedans.

InstallGear 2/4/8/10 Gauge AWG Positive & Negative Battery Terminal Clamp and Shims (Pair)

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • 2/4/8/10 Gauge Inputs
  • Gold Screws terminals hold cables securely in place
  • Fast and easy installation
  • Includes Negative and Positive Terminal
  • Nickel and Gold construction for excellent signal transfer and great design

User questions & answers

Question: my positive side have 2 wire both 4 gauge, it is secure if use the i use the larger hole for one of the 4 gauge cable
Answer: They will handle as much as your battery can supply, no problem.
Question: Is this intended to make your own main battery cable connections? Or just to connect wires for accessories
Answer: This item is used for standard top post battery (19 mm tapering positive & 17 mm tapering negative).
Question: Will these batteries terminals fit an f250 battery
Answer: Zinc plated cast lead would be my opinion.
Question: Are these shims designed to fit around both the neg. and pos. battery terminals, since they are different sizes
Answer: Copper work hardens and cracks in a vibration environment, perhaps you mean a "bronze" alloy. Some like them better, regardless, I would recommend painting them after installation with something to seal them to help insulate from corrosion, a clear coat would work fine.

Product features

Battery Terminals

  • Clearly Marked with (+) Positive or (-) Negative for Easy Polarity Identification
  • Satin Nickel Finish
  • 2 Gauge Input
  • 4 Gauge Input
  • 8/10 Gauge Inputs

Spacer Shims

  • Includes 2 Adjustable Shims
  • Satin Nickel Finish

SAE/JIS Standard Sized

  • (+) Positive Terminal is Deisgned for a 17.5mm Tapering Post
  • (-) Negative Terminal is Designed for a 15.9mm Tapering Post

WindyNation 1 Pair Brass Marine Grade Battery Terminal Top Post for Boat Car RV (Military Spec. B-12128C)

Based on 496 reviews Check latest price

Product description

WindyNation batteries terminals are designed to meet the difficult, corrosive conditions of battery connections. Battery acid, moisture, and other solvents often lead to the premature degradation of battery terminals. WindyNation's battery terminals are manufactured from pure brass and utilize stainless steel fasteners. Brass and stainless steel are highly resistant to corrosion from marine environments and battery acid, compared to traditional lead battery terminals with standard steel fasteners. Meets or exceeds MIL SPEC B-12128C and SAE-890.

  • Includes 1 positive + 1 negative (1 pair) of marine grade top of post battery terminals
  • True Marine Grade: brass battery terminal and included stainless steel fasteners provide excellent corrosion resistance to battery acid and marine environments.
  • Both mounting bolt diameters are 5/16" (8 mm) diameter. See photo gallery for electrical connector options.
  • Battery terminals are designed to fit all standard top of post batteries (19mm positive post and 17mm negative post)
  • Meets the following specifications: Military B-12128C SAE-890. Superior corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity compared to lead or zinc plated terminals.

User questions & answers

Question: Is the 1-inch vertical SS bolt and wing nut combination easily removed to replace with a longer bolt
Answer: Not sure I understand. Use appropriate holes as intended. You can leave vacant ones for future use, but any connections made must be securely fastened.
Question: What is the minimum interior diameter on the post openings when fully cinched down
Answer: Main battery connection.
Question: How many amps can these handle? Semi truck battery bank? 1800 amps? 0/4 awg wire? Can these handle that application? Its a 3 battery bank
Answer: They should fit. The negative side is a little larger so you will need a sham to ensure a tight connection.
Question: These are paper thin. Im skeptical they will handle 1100 cranking amps without creating a current bottleneck. What are they rated for
Answer: I would assume so. I did not need them for my battery, but first thought I would need it on the negative post. As it turned out, it tightened up without using the shim.

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