Everstart 58-3 Battery

When my alarm failed to go off last winter and I rushed to my car in the bitter cold, the clicking sound that greeted me instead of my engine roaring to life was all too familiar. That dreaded moment when you realize your car battery has given up is something we’ve all experienced. After helping countless customers and replacing my own vehicle’s battery multiple times over my 15-year career as a mechanic, I’ve developed a special appreciation for reliable power sources. Today, I want to share my insights about the Everstart 58-3 battery—a popular option that might just be the right fit for your vehicle.

As someone who’s had their hands covered in battery acid more times than I’d like to admit, I’ve learned that choosing the right battery for your specific vehicle and driving needs is absolutely critical. It’s not just about finding something that fits under your hood—it’s about finding a power source that matches your driving habits, climate conditions, and budget constraints.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Everstart 58-3 battery, from its specifications and compatibility to real-world performance and maintenance tips. By the end of this guide, you’ll know whether this battery deserves a spot in your engine bay.

What Exactly Is the Everstart 58-3 Battery?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, let’s establish what we’re talking about. The Everstart 58-3 is a popular automotive battery sold primarily through Walmart stores across the country. Everstart batteries are manufactured by Johnson Controls, the same company that produces batteries for brands like Duralast and AC Delco, which gives them some serious credibility in the automotive world.

The 58-3 designation refers to the specific group size of the battery, which determines its physical dimensions and terminal locations. This particular model is designed to fit a wide range of vehicles, especially domestic models from manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Chrysler.

Technical Specifications: What’s Under the Hood?

When I’m evaluating any battery, I first look at its technical specifications. Here’s what you need to know about the Everstart 58-3:

• Battery Type: The Everstart 58-3 is a traditional flooded lead-acid battery. This is the most common type of automotive battery and has been the industry standard for decades.
• Voltage: Like most automotive batteries, it operates at 12 volts.
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): This is where things get interesting. The Everstart 58-3 boasts approximately 550-600 CCA, which is a measurement of the battery’s ability to start your engine in cold temperatures. The higher the CCA rating, the better the battery will perform in cold weather. At 550-600 CCA, the 58-3 offers solid performance for most standard vehicles in moderate climates.
• Reserve Capacity: This battery typically provides about 90-100 minutes of reserve capacity. This means if your alternator fails, you’ll have about an hour and a half of electrical power to get to safety or a repair shop.
• Physical Dimensions: The Group 58 size typically measures approximately 10.25″ L x 6.875″ W x 7.5″ H, but always double-check against your vehicle’s specifications.
• Weight: Expect this battery to weigh around 40-45 pounds. Not lightweight by any means, but standard for a battery of this size and capacity.
• Terminal Type: The 58-3 features top post terminals, which are the most common type in North American vehicles.

When I first started working with car batteries twenty years ago, a 500 CCA battery was considered quite powerful. Today, it’s on the moderate end for everyday vehicles, but still plenty adequate for most drivers who aren’t dealing with extreme conditions.

Compatibility: Will It Fit Your Vehicle?

One of the most common questions I get at the shop is: “Will this battery work in my car?” For the Everstart 58-3, the answer is often yes—but with some important caveats.

The 58-3 is particularly well-suited for:

• Many Ford vehicles, including F-150 trucks, Explorers, and Mustangs from the 2000s and early 2010s
• Chevrolet models like the Silverado, Tahoe, and Suburban
• Chrysler and Dodge vehicles, including many Jeep models
• Some Honda and Toyota models, though Japanese vehicles often use different battery group sizes

The best way to confirm compatibility is to check your vehicle’s owner manual, which will specify the appropriate battery group size. Alternatively, you can use the battery finder tool available on most auto parts store websites, including Walmart’s.

I once had a customer insist on installing a battery that was technically the wrong size for his vehicle. Despite my warnings, he went ahead with it. Two weeks later, he was back because the battery had shifted during driving and damaged the battery tray. Save yourself the headache and make sure you’re getting the right size!

Cost Considerations: What Will Your Wallet Think?

As of my latest check in 2024, the Everstart 58-3 battery typically retails between $85-$110, depending on whether there are any promotions running. This places it firmly in the mid-range category for automotive batteries.

While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, I’ve found that the price point offers a good balance of quality and value. In the world of car batteries, going too cheap often means sacrificing reliability and longevity. On the flip side, premium batteries with advanced technologies like AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) construction can cost upwards of $200, which is overkill for many everyday drivers.

Here’s my take: if your vehicle doesn’t have special power requirements and you’re not regularly driving in extreme conditions, the Everstart 58-3 offers excellent value for the price. I’ve installed dozens for customers who were working with tight budgets, and the feedback has generally been positive, especially considering the cost.

One cost-saving tip I often share: Walmart frequently offers a core charge rebate (usually around $10-12) when you return your old battery for recycling. Don’t forget to bring your old battery when purchasing to take advantage of this discount!

Where to Buy: Finding Your Everstart 58-3

As an Everstart product, the 58-3 battery is primarily available through Walmart’s network of stores. This exclusivity has both advantages and disadvantages.

On the plus side, Walmart’s extensive retail network means that most Americans live within a reasonable distance of a store where they can purchase this battery. Additionally, Walmart often keeps these batteries well-stocked, so you’re unlikely to face availability issues.

The downside is that you have limited options for shopping around or comparing prices across different retailers. However, Walmart’s automotive department does frequently run promotions on batteries, especially during seasonal transitions when battery failures become more common.

If you’re planning to purchase, I recommend calling your local Walmart automotive department to confirm availability before making the trip. Nothing is more frustrating than driving across town only to find they’re out of stock on the exact battery you need.

Some Walmart locations also offer installation services for an additional fee (typically $10-15). If you’re not comfortable installing a battery yourself, this can be a convenient option, though any auto repair shop or many auto parts stores will also perform this service.

Warranty Coverage: Your Safety Net

One of the significant advantages of the Everstart 58-3 battery is its warranty coverage. Walmart typically offers a 3-year warranty on these batteries, with a free replacement period during the first 1-2 years (depending on current policies).

The warranty typically works on a prorated basis after the free replacement period ends. This means if your battery fails in the third year, you’ll receive a partial credit toward a new battery based on how much time remains on your warranty.

From my experience, Walmart tends to honor these warranties without much hassle, provided you have your receipt or they can look up your purchase in their system. I’ve accompanied several customers over the years to help them claim warranty replacements, and the process has generally been straightforward.

Pro tip: Take a photo of your receipt and store it digitally. Battery receipts tend to fade over time, and you don’t want to be scrambling to prove your purchase date if your battery fails two years down the road.

Real-World Performance: How Long Will It Last?

Let’s get to what you really want to know: how long can you expect the Everstart 58-3 to power your vehicle? Based on my experience and feedback from customers, you can typically expect:

• Average Lifespan: 3-5 years under normal conditions
• Shorter Lifespan Factors: Extreme heat (consistent 100°F+ temperatures), very cold climates (regular sub-zero temperatures), short trips that don’t allow for full recharging, electrical system issues
• Extended Lifespan Factors: Moderate climate conditions, regular long drives, proper maintenance, vehicles with lower electrical demands

I remember working with a customer whose Everstart battery lasted nearly six years in his Ford F-150. The secret? He lived in a temperate climate, drove his truck daily for his 45-minute commute, and religiously maintained his vehicle’s electrical system. On the flip side, I’ve seen these batteries fail in as little as 18 months in Phoenix, Arizona, where summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F.

The reality is that battery lifespan depends far more on your specific circumstances than on the brand name printed on the label. That said, the Everstart 58-3 generally performs in line with or slightly better than other batteries in its price range.

Cold Weather Performance: Will It Start When You Need It Most?

With its 550-600 CCA rating, the Everstart 58-3 provides adequate cold weather starting power for most vehicles in moderately cold climates. If you live somewhere that regularly sees temperatures below 0°F, you might want to consider a battery with a higher CCA rating.

I’ve found that the 58-3 performs reliably down to about 10-15°F for most vehicles. Below that, its performance begins to depend more heavily on the specific demands of your vehicle and the overall health of the battery.

For reference, most standard passenger vehicles require approximately 400-600 CCA to start reliably in moderately cold weather. Larger engines, especially diesel engines, typically need more cranking power. If you drive a V8 truck or SUV and live in Minnesota or other extremely cold regions, you might want to look at batteries with 650+ CCA ratings.

One customer of mine who moved from Georgia to Michigan called me in a panic after the first cold snap when his relatively new Everstart battery struggled to start his Chevy Tahoe. We upgraded him to a higher CCA battery, and he hasn’t had issues since. Know your climate and choose accordingly!

Installation: DIY or Professional Help?

Installing the Everstart 58-3 battery is a relatively straightforward process that many car owners can handle themselves. Here’s a quick overview of what’s involved:

1. Ensure the vehicle is turned off and the keys are removed
2. Locate the battery (typically under the hood, though some vehicles place it in the trunk or under a seat)
3. Identify the positive and negative terminals (positive is usually marked with a “+” symbol and often has a red cover)
4. Remove the negative terminal first, then the positive
5. Remove any battery hold-down brackets or clamps
6. Carefully lift out the old battery (remember, it’s heavy!)
7. Clean the battery tray and terminals if necessary
8. Place the new battery in the same orientation as the old one
9. Reconnect the battery, starting with the positive terminal, then the negative
10. Secure the battery with the hold-down bracket
11. Ensure all connections are tight

If you’re not comfortable with this process, most auto parts stores (including many Walmart auto centers) offer installation services for a nominal fee, typically $10-15.

One installation tip I always share: apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly or specific battery terminal protectant to the terminals after installation. This helps prevent corrosion and ensures good electrical contact.

Maintenance Requirements: Is It Truly “Maintenance-Free”?

The Everstart 58-3 is marketed as a maintenance-free battery, which is mostly accurate. Unlike older battery designs, you don’t need to add water to the cells or perform regular internal maintenance.

However, “maintenance-free” doesn’t mean “ignore completely.” For optimal performance and longevity, I still recommend:

• Periodically checking the terminals for corrosion (a white or greenish powder buildup)
• Cleaning the terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution if corrosion appears
• Ensuring the battery is securely fastened in its tray to prevent vibration damage
• Having your vehicle’s charging system checked annually to ensure the battery isn’t being undercharged or overcharged

One often overlooked aspect of battery maintenance is simply driving your vehicle regularly and for adequate distances. Short trips of less than 15 minutes often don’t allow the battery to fully recharge after starting the engine, which can lead to a condition called undercharging. If you mainly take short trips, consider a monthly longer drive or using a battery maintainer/trickle charger.

Charging Your Everstart 58-3: Getting Back to Full Power

If your Everstart 58-3 battery becomes discharged (but not completely dead), you have several options for recharging it:

1. Drive the vehicle: The alternator will recharge the battery while you drive, though this works best for batteries that are only slightly discharged. Plan for at least 30 minutes of continuous driving.
2. Use a battery charger: A standard 12V automotive battery charger can restore your battery to full charge. For the Everstart 58-3, a charger with a 10-amp setting is appropriate for overnight charging, while a 2-amp setting is better for long-term maintenance charging.
3. Jump-start and drive: If the battery won’t start your car, you can jump-start it from another vehicle or portable jump starter, then drive for at least 30 minutes to allow the alternator to partially recharge the battery.

One word of caution: repeatedly allowing your battery to fully discharge can significantly shorten its lifespan. Lead-acid batteries like the Everstart 58-3 prefer to be kept at a high state of charge.

I once had a customer who would let his vehicle sit for weeks between drives, then be surprised when the battery died after just a year. For vehicles that aren’t driven regularly, I strongly recommend using a battery maintainer (also called a trickle charger) to keep the battery at optimal charge.

Consumer Reviews: What Are Others Saying?

Based on my conversations with customers and review research, the Everstart 58-3 battery tends to receive mixed to positive reviews. Most users rate it somewhere between 3.5 and 4.2 out of 5 stars.

Common praise points include:

• Good value for the price
• Reliable performance in moderate conditions
• Convenient availability at Walmart
• Straightforward warranty process

Common criticism points include:

• Some units fail prematurely (within 1-2 years)
• May struggle in extreme cold weather
• Occasional manufacturing inconsistencies

It’s worth noting that people are more likely to leave reviews when they’ve had a negative experience, so online reviews tend to skew slightly negative compared to overall customer satisfaction. From my professional perspective, the Everstart 58-3 performs comparably to other batteries in its price range, with perhaps slightly better value due to its warranty terms.

Comparison with Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?

To give you a better perspective, let’s compare the Everstart 58-3 with some comparable batteries in the same category:

Everstart 58-3 vs. DieHard Gold (Group 58)

• Similar CCA ratings (both around 550-600)
• DieHard typically costs $20-30 more
• DieHard offers a slightly longer warranty in some cases
• Real-world performance is comparable in most situations

Everstart 58-3 vs. AutoCraft Gold (Group 58)

• AutoCraft sometimes offers higher CCA (around 650)
• Pricing is similar, with AutoCraft sometimes $5-10 more expensive
• Warranty terms are comparable
• AutoCraft may perform slightly better in cold weather due to higher CCA

Everstart 58-3 vs. AC Delco Gold (Group 58)

• AC Delco is typically $15-25 more expensive
• Similar performance specifications
• AC Delco may have slightly better construction quality
• Real-world longevity is generally comparable

In my experience, the primary advantage of the Everstart 58-3 is its combination of decent performance, wide availability, and competitive price point. While it may not have the premium construction of some higher-end batteries, the performance difference in everyday driving scenarios is often negligible for most drivers.

Environmental Considerations: Recycling Your Old Battery

An important aspect of battery ownership that many guides overlook is proper disposal and recycling. Car batteries contain lead and acid, which can be harmful to the environment if not handled properly.

The good news is that automotive batteries are among the most recycled products in America, with a recycling rate of approximately 99%. When purchasing an Everstart 58-3 battery, you’ll typically pay a “core charge” that is refunded when you return your old battery.

Walmart, like most battery retailers, will accept your old battery for recycling when you purchase a new one. If you’re not immediately replacing your battery, most auto parts stores and many recycling centers will also accept old automotive batteries.

Never throw an automotive battery in the trash or leave it exposed to the elements. The environmental impact can be significant, and in many jurisdictions, improper disposal of automotive batteries is illegal and can result in fines.

Special Considerations for Older Vehicles

If you’re considering the Everstart 58-3 for an older vehicle (15+ years old), there are a few additional factors to consider:

1. Electrical System Health: Older vehicles may have charging system issues that can prematurely damage a new battery. Before investing in a new battery, have your alternator and voltage regulator tested.
2. Power Requirements: Some older vehicles, particularly those from the 1970s-1990s, may have different power requirements than modern cars. Check your owner’s manual or consult with a mechanic familiar with your model.
3. Terminal Compatibility: While the 58-3 has standard top post terminals, some vintage vehicles use side post terminals or have unique terminal configurations.
4. Physical Fit: Older vehicles sometimes have different battery tray sizes or configurations. Measure your battery compartment before purchasing.

I’ve worked on countless classic cars over the years, and I’ve found that while modern batteries like the Everstart 58-3 can work well in older vehicles, it’s worth taking these extra precautions to ensure compatibility.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

While the Everstart 58-3 is generally reliable, no battery is perfect. Here are some common issues owners might encounter and how to address them:

Issue: Battery dies quickly after charging
Possible causes:

• Parasitic draw (something in your vehicle is drawing power when it shouldn’t be)
• Failing alternator not properly charging the battery
• Internal battery defect

Solution: Have your electrical system tested for parasitic draws and alternator output. If both check out, the battery may be defective and eligible for warranty replacement.

Issue: Corrosion on terminals
Possible causes:

• Normal battery gas venting
• Loose terminal connections
• Overcharging

Solution: Clean terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution. Apply terminal protectant and ensure connections are tight but not overtightened.

Issue: Battery won’t hold charge overnight
Possible causes:

• Parasitic draw
• Old or failing battery
• Extremely cold temperatures

Solution: Check for parasitic draws first. If none are found and the battery is relatively new, have it load-tested to check its condition.

Issue: Battery seems weak in cold weather
Possible causes:

• Battery nearing end of life
• CCA rating insufficient for your climate
• Thickened oil making engine harder to turn over

Solution: Have the battery load-tested. Consider upgrading to a higher CCA battery if you live in a very cold climate. Ensure you’re using the proper oil viscosity for winter temperatures.

Final Verdict: Is the Everstart 58-3 Right for You?

After analyzing all aspects of the Everstart 58-3 battery, I believe it represents a solid choice for many drivers, particularly those who:

• Own compatible vehicles with standard electrical demands
• Drive regularly in moderate climate conditions
• Are looking for a good balance of performance and value
• Appreciate the convenience of Walmart’s widespread retail network
• Want decent warranty coverage without paying premium prices

However, it might not be the optimal choice if you:

• Live in extremely cold regions (consistently below 0°F in winter)
• Have a vehicle with high electrical demands (extensive aftermarket electronics, high-powered audio systems, etc.)
• Rarely drive your vehicle and need a battery specifically designed for infrequent use
• Are looking for the absolute longest-lasting battery regardless of price

In my years as a mechanic, I’ve found that most automotive batteries, including the Everstart 58-3, perform quite similarly in everyday use, with price differences often reflecting warranty terms more than significant performance advantages. For the average driver looking for reliable power without breaking the bank, the Everstart 58-3 deserves serious consideration.

Remember that proper installation, regular driving, and basic maintenance will do more to extend the life of any battery than marginal differences in construction or materials between comparably priced models.

Whether you choose the Everstart 58-3 or another option, understanding your vehicle’s needs and your specific driving conditions will help ensure you make the right choice for your situation. After all, the best battery is one that starts your car reliably every time you turn the key—and continues to do so for years to come.