Everstart Battery 51R

As I pulled into my driveway after work, my car sputtered and died with that unmistakable sound of a battery giving up the ghost. There I was, stuck with a dead battery and a mountain of questions about replacements. If you’ve found yourself in a similar situation or are just being proactive about your vehicle maintenance, you’ve come to the right place. After spending countless hours researching, comparing, and testing, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about the Everstart Battery 51R to help you make an informed decision.

What Exactly Is the Everstart Battery 51R?

The Everstart Battery 51R is a 12-volt lead-acid automotive battery designed specifically for certain vehicle makes and models. The “51R” in its name refers to the Battery Council International (BCI) group size, which indicates its physical dimensions and terminal configuration. The “R” stands for “reverse,” meaning the positive and negative terminals are reversed compared to the standard Group 51 battery.

In my experience, the Everstart brand is Walmart’s house brand for automotive batteries, manufactured by reputable battery companies like Johnson Controls or Clarios. These batteries are designed to provide reliable starting power for your vehicle while offering good value for money.

When I first started researching, I was confused about all the terminology. Let me break it down for you: the Everstart Battery 51R is primarily a starting battery designed to deliver a powerful burst of energy to crank your engine and get your vehicle running. It’s not meant for deep-cycle applications like powering accessories for extended periods without the engine running.

Is the Everstart Battery 51R Compatible with My Car?

This was my first big question, and it’s probably yours too. The 51R battery fits several Japanese vehicle models, including certain Honda, Toyota, Nissan, and Mazda vehicles. However, compatibility depends on your specific vehicle’s make, model, and year.

In my case, I drive a 2018 Honda Civic, which is compatible with the 51R battery size. To determine if the Everstart Battery 51R is compatible with your vehicle, you can:

1. Check your vehicle’s owner manual for battery specifications
2. Look at your current battery’s label for the group size
3. Use the battery finder tool on Walmart’s website
4. Consult with an automotive parts specialist

When I was unsure, I took a picture of my old battery and brought it to the store. The associate confirmed that the 51R was indeed the correct replacement for my vehicle. Don’t skip this step—using an incompatible battery can lead to connection issues, inadequate performance, or even damage to your vehicle’s electrical system.

How Long Does an Everstart Battery 51R Last?

Battery longevity is a major concern for any car owner. Based on my research and personal experience, the Everstart Battery 51R typically lasts between 3-5 years under normal driving conditions. However, several factors can influence its lifespan:

• Climate conditions (extreme heat or cold can reduce battery life)
• Driving habits (short trips don’t fully recharge the battery)
• Vehicle electrical demands
• Maintenance practices
• Manufacturing quality

Living in Arizona, I’ve noticed that the intense summer heat takes a toll on battery life. My previous Everstart battery lasted just over 3 years before showing signs of weakness. Friends in more moderate climates report getting closer to 5 years from theirs.

What I’ve learned is that regular maintenance and being attentive to early warning signs can significantly extend your battery’s lifespan. If you notice slow engine cranking, dimming headlights, or electrical issues, it might be time to test your battery before you end up stranded like I was.

Where Can I Buy an Everstart Battery 51R?

As the name suggests, Everstart is Walmart’s proprietary battery brand, making Walmart the primary retailer for these batteries. You can purchase the Everstart Battery 51R from:

• Walmart physical stores (automotive department)
• Walmart’s website (with options for pickup or delivery)
• Some third-party automotive retailers that carry Walmart brands

I personally prefer buying car batteries in-store rather than online. When I replaced my battery, I went to my local Walmart and appreciated being able to have the old battery tested first to confirm it needed replacement. Plus, many Walmart locations offer free installation with purchase, which is a significant convenience.

Another benefit of buying in-store is the immediate exchange of your old battery for recycling. Most locations offer a core charge refund when you bring in your old battery, which typically ranges from $10-15.

How Much Does the Everstart Battery 51R Cost?

Price is always a consideration, and I found the Everstart Battery 51R to be quite competitive compared to other brands. Based on my recent purchase and research, the Everstart Battery 51R typically costs between $85-$110, depending on whether you choose the Value, Plus, or Platinum version.

Here’s a breakdown of the different Everstart battery lines and their approximate pricing:

• Everstart Value: $85-90 (Basic warranty, good for standard vehicles with minimal electrical demands)
• Everstart Plus: $95-100 (Better warranty, improved cold-cranking performance)
• Everstart Platinum: $105-110 (Premium option with the longest warranty and highest performance specifications)

I opted for the Everstart Plus for my Honda, which struck a good balance between performance and price. Remember that these prices usually include a core charge (around $10-15) that you get back when you return your old battery for recycling.

Compared to premium brands like Optima or Duracell, which can cost $150-200 for a similar group size, the Everstart offers significant savings while still providing reliable performance for most drivers.

What Are the Specifications of the Everstart Battery 51R?

Understanding battery specifications helped me make an educated choice rather than just buying whatever the store recommended. The Everstart Battery 51R comes with the following typical specifications:

• Voltage: 12 volts
• Group Size: 51R
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 500-525 (varies by specific model)
• Reserve Capacity (RC): 70-90 minutes (varies by model)
• Physical Dimensions: Approximately 9.3″ L × 5″ W × 8.75″ H
• Weight: About 35-40 pounds
• Terminal Position: Negative terminal on the right (hence the “R” designation)

The CCA rating was particularly important to me. It measures the battery’s ability to start your engine in cold temperatures. Living in Arizona, I don’t need the highest CCA rating, but those in colder climates might want to prioritize this specification.

Reserve capacity indicates how long the battery can run essential systems if your alternator fails. The higher the RC rating, the longer your battery can keep critical systems running, which gives you more time to reach a service station.

How to Install an Everstart Battery 51R?

While I took advantage of Walmart’s free installation service, I’ve installed batteries before and can share the process for those who prefer the DIY approach:

1. Safety first: Wear gloves and eye protection, and ensure the engine is off and cool.
2. Disconnect the old battery: Always start with the negative (black) terminal, then the positive (red).
3. Remove the battery hold-down: This is usually a clamp or bracket that keeps the battery in place.
4. Remove the old battery: Lift it straight up and out. Be careful—car batteries are heavy!
5. Clean the battery tray: Use a wire brush and baking soda solution to remove any corrosion.
6. Install the new battery: Place it in the tray, ensuring the terminals are in the correct position (for 51R, negative on the right).
7. Secure the hold-down: Make sure the battery doesn’t move.
8. Connect the terminals: Start with the positive (red) terminal, then the negative (black).
9. Apply anti-corrosion washers or spray: This extends terminal life.
10. Double-check all connections: Ensure everything is tight but not over-tightened.

One mistake I made in a previous installation was connecting the terminals in the wrong order. Always disconnect negative first and connect it last to avoid shorts and sparks.

If you’re not completely comfortable with this process, many stores (including Walmart) offer free or low-cost installation with battery purchase. For most people, professional installation is worth the peace of mind and safety assurance.

Is the Everstart Battery 51R Maintenance-Free?

Yes, the Everstart Battery 51R is considered maintenance-free, which was a significant selling point for me. This means:

• You don’t need to add water to the battery
• The case is sealed, preventing acid leaks
• There are no removable caps on top of the battery
• It’s designed to reduce water loss during charging

While the battery is maintenance-free, I still recommend periodic maintenance of the connections:

1. Check for corrosion on the terminals (look for white, blue, or greenish powder)
2. Clean terminals with a wire brush if corrosion appears
3. Apply battery terminal protector spray or petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion
4. Ensure the battery is securely mounted to prevent vibration damage

When I replaced my battery, I noticed significant corrosion on my old terminals. Taking five minutes to clean them and apply protector spray to the new connections is a simple step that can extend battery life and ensure reliable starting.

What is the Warranty on the Everstart Battery 51R?

Warranty coverage varies depending on which Everstart battery line you purchase. Based on my research and purchase experience:

• Everstart Value: 1-year free replacement, 2-year prorated warranty
• Everstart Plus: 2-year free replacement, 3-year prorated warranty
• Everstart Platinum: 3-year free replacement, 5-year prorated warranty

I chose the Everstart Plus for my Honda, giving me 2 years of worry-free coverage. The warranty process is straightforward—if your battery fails within the free replacement period, simply take it to any Walmart automotive department with your receipt for a no-cost replacement.

The prorated warranty works differently. After the free replacement period ends, you’ll receive a discount on a new battery based on how much time remains in your warranty period. The closer you are to the end of the warranty, the smaller the discount.

What impressed me was how hassle-free the warranty claim process was when a friend’s Everstart battery failed after 14 months. They simply took it to Walmart with the receipt, the staff tested it to confirm the failure, and they walked out with a new battery at no cost.

How Does the Everstart Battery 51R Compare to Other Car Batteries?

When researching, I compared the Everstart 51R to several competitors, including DieHard, Duracell, and AC Delco. Here’s how it stacks up:

Value Comparison:
The Everstart Battery 51R offers excellent value for the price. While premium brands might offer slightly better performance or longer warranties, the difference rarely justifies the 40-60% price premium for average drivers.

Performance Comparison:
In my experience and based on research, the Everstart Plus and Platinum lines perform comparably to mid-tier offerings from major brands. The CCA ratings are competitive, and real-world starting performance is reliable. Where premium brands sometimes edge ahead is in extreme temperature conditions or in vehicles with high electrical demands.

Warranty Comparison:
The Everstart Platinum’s 3-year free replacement warranty matches or exceeds many competitors’ offerings. However, some premium brands like Optima or NAPA offer longer total warranty periods (up to 7 years prorated).

Availability and Service:
Everstart’s wide availability through Walmart’s extensive network gives it an advantage over some specialty brands. When traveling, I find comfort in knowing I can find a replacement or warranty service in almost any town with a Walmart.

After weighing all factors, I found the Everstart Battery 51R to be the best balance of price, performance, and convenience for my needs. For specialty applications or extreme conditions, premium brands might be worth considering, but for everyday reliability, the Everstart has proven itself in my vehicle.

Can I Use the Everstart Battery 51R in Cold Weather?

Cold weather performance is a critical consideration for many drivers. The Everstart Battery 51R is designed to function in cold weather, but its effectiveness depends on which version you purchase and how extreme the temperatures get.

The Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) rating is the key specification for cold weather performance. For the Everstart Battery 51R:

• Everstart Value: Approximately 500 CCA
• Everstart Plus: Approximately 510-515 CCA
• Everstart Platinum: Approximately 520-525 CCA

During a trip to visit family in Minnesota last winter, my Everstart Plus started my Honda without issues even at -15°F. However, if you live in an area with consistently extreme cold (regularly below -20°F), you might want to consider:

1. Opting for the Platinum version with higher CCA
2. Looking at specialty cold-weather batteries with CCA ratings of 600+
3. Using a battery blanket or engine block heater in extreme conditions

One thing I’ve learned is that battery performance decreases significantly in cold weather, so a battery that’s marginal in warm weather will likely fail when temperatures plummet. If you live in a cold climate, investing in a higher-quality battery with more CCA than your vehicle’s minimum requirement provides valuable peace of mind.

What Vehicles Are Compatible with the Everstart Battery 51R?

The 51R group size is commonly found in many Japanese vehicles. Based on my research and conversations with automotive professionals, the Everstart Battery 51R is typically compatible with:

Honda Models:

• Civic (most years, including my 2018 model)
• Accord (select years)
• CR-V (select years)
• Fit
• Insight

Toyota Models:

• Corolla
• Camry (select years)
• Prius (some models)
• RAV4 (select years)
• Yaris

Nissan Models:

• Sentra
• Altima (select years)
• Versa
• Rogue (some years)

Other Compatible Vehicles:

• Select Mazda models
• Some Acura models
• Certain Subaru models
• Some Kia and Hyundai models

This list isn’t exhaustive, and compatibility can vary by production year and engine type. When my neighbor with a 2017 Toyota Corolla needed a battery, I recommended the 51R based on my research, and it was indeed the correct size for her vehicle.

The most reliable way to confirm compatibility is to check your vehicle’s owner manual, look at the current battery’s label, or use a battery finder tool. When in doubt, consult with an automotive professional before making your purchase.

How to Charge an Everstart Battery 51R?

There may be times when you need to charge your battery rather than replace it. Perhaps your car sat unused for an extended period, or you accidentally left your lights on. Here’s how I successfully charged my Everstart Battery 51R:

1. Choose the right charger: For a standard 51R battery, a 12-volt automotive battery charger rated at 2-10 amps works well. I use a 6-amp charger with automatic shut-off.
2. Safety precautions:
   • Ensure the vehicle is off
   • Work in a well-ventilated area
   • Wear gloves and eye protection
   • Keep sparks and flames away from the battery
3. Connection process:
   • Connect the positive (red) charger clamp to the positive battery terminal
   • Connect the negative (black) charger clamp to the negative terminal
   • Plug in and turn on the charger, selecting the appropriate charge rate
4. Charging time:
   • A completely discharged battery might need 8-12 hours at a slow charge rate (2 amps)
   • A partially discharged battery might need 2-6 hours
   • Modern “smart” chargers will indicate when charging is complete
5. After charging:
   • Turn off and unplug the charger before disconnecting the cables
   • Remove the negative cable first, then the positive

I’ve found that using a maintenance or “float” charger is beneficial for vehicles that sit for extended periods. When my car sat in the garage during a month-long work trip, I connected a maintenance charger that keeps the battery at optimal charge without overcharging it.

For safety reasons, never attempt to charge a visibly damaged, frozen, or bulging battery, as this can lead to dangerous situations including battery explosion. In these cases, replacement is the only safe option.

Where is the Everstart Battery 51R Manufactured?

This question intrigued me during my research. Everstart batteries, including the 51R, are typically manufactured by major battery producers like Johnson Controls (now Clarios) or Exide Technologies for Walmart. The actual production facilities are located throughout the United States, with some components possibly sourced internationally.

When I examined my battery closely, I noticed a manufacturing code that indicated it was produced in a U.S. facility. However, Walmart’s supplier relationships can change over time, so the specific manufacturer might vary depending on when and where you purchase your battery.

What matters more than the manufacturer name is the quality control and specifications. Walmart maintains certain standards for their Everstart brand regardless of who produces the actual batteries. The warranty and performance specifications are standardized across the product line, giving consumers consistency regardless of manufacturing origin.

How to Recycle an Old Everstart Battery 51R?

Proper disposal of old batteries is not just environmentally responsible—it’s legally required in most areas. Lead-acid batteries contain hazardous materials that must be handled properly. Here’s what I learned about recycling my old battery:

1. Return to retailer: Most retailers, including Walmart, accept old batteries for recycling when you purchase a new one. They typically refund your “core charge” (the $10-15 deposit included in your battery purchase).
2. Local recycling centers: If you’re not immediately replacing your battery, many community recycling centers accept automotive batteries.
3. Auto parts stores: Most major chains like AutoZone, O’Reilly, or Advance Auto Parts will accept old batteries for recycling even if you didn’t purchase your new one from them.
4. Never dispose in trash: It’s illegal in most jurisdictions to throw batteries in regular garbage due to their toxic components.

When I replaced my battery at Walmart, the process couldn’t have been simpler. I brought in my old battery, they verified it matched the type I was purchasing, and they credited the core charge back to my receipt. The store associate mentioned that nearly 99% of lead-acid battery components can be recycled and reused in new batteries.

By recycling your old Everstart Battery 51R, you’re not just complying with regulations—you’re participating in one of the most successful recycling programs in existence. The automotive battery recycling rate exceeds 95% in North America, making it an environmental success story worth supporting.

Does Walmart Sell the Everstart Battery 51R?

Yes, Walmart is the primary retailer for all Everstart batteries, including the 51R size. As Walmart’s house brand for automotive batteries, you’ll find the most consistent availability and best pricing at Walmart stores and on their website.

In my experience, most Walmart locations with automotive departments carry the Everstart Battery 51R in stock, given its popularity for Japanese vehicles. When my battery failed, I called ahead to my local store to confirm availability before driving over.

Walmart typically offers several advantages when purchasing Everstart batteries:

1. Competitive pricing compared to other retailers
2. Free or low-cost battery installation with purchase
3. Battery testing services to confirm if you need a replacement
4. Convenient battery recycling with core charge refund
5. Nationwide warranty service through their extensive store network

Occasionally, you might find Everstart batteries through third-party sellers online or at other automotive retailers, but these are often at higher prices and without the installation services Walmart provides.

What Are the Reviews for the Everstart Battery 51R?

Before making my purchase, I spent considerable time reading reviews from other Everstart Battery 51R users. The consensus seemed generally positive, with most reviewers citing:

Positive feedback:

• Good value for the price point
• Reliable starting performance in moderate climates
• Convenient warranty service through Walmart
• Decent battery life comparable to mid-tier competitors

Negative feedback:

• Some users reported shorter-than-expected lifespan in extreme climates
• Occasional manufacturing inconsistencies
• Limited high-performance options compared to specialty brands

In my own experience over the past year with my Everstart Plus 51R, I’ve had zero issues with starting reliability. The battery has performed well through an Arizona summer with temperatures regularly exceeding 110°F.

Consumer Reports and other independent testing organizations typically rate Everstart batteries as “good” performers in the value category. They’re not usually at the very top of performance rankings, but they consistently score well in value-for-money assessments.

A pattern I noticed in reviews was that customer satisfaction often correlated with choosing the right Everstart tier for their needs. Those who bought the Value line for high-demand applications were less satisfied than those who matched their usage to the appropriate battery tier.

How to Test the Performance of an Everstart Battery 51R?

After installing my new battery, I wanted to ensure it was performing properly. Here are the methods I used to test my Everstart Battery 51R:

1. Voltage Testing:
Using a digital multimeter, I measured the voltage across the battery terminals:

• A fully charged battery should read about 12.6-12.7 volts when the engine is off
• With the engine running, the voltage should be 13.7-14.7 volts (indicating proper alternator charging)
• A reading below 12.4 volts with the engine off indicates a partially discharged battery

2. Load Testing:
This can be done at auto parts stores or with a load tester:

• A load test simulates the starting demand on your battery
• A good battery maintains voltage above 9.6 volts under load
• Many auto parts stores and Walmart automotive departments offer free battery testing

3. Starting Performance Observation:
I pay attention to how the engine starts:

• Healthy battery: Engine cranks quickly and starts immediately
• Weakening battery: Slower cranking, especially in cold weather
• Failing battery: Very slow cranking or clicking sounds instead of cranking

When I had my battery tested at Walmart six months after installation (just out of curiosity), it showed 100% capacity and passed the load test with excellent results. This confirmed my impression that the starting performance had been consistently strong.

For most drivers, regular voltage checks every 6 months and having your battery professionally tested annually is sufficient to catch potential issues before they leave you stranded.

Is the Everstart Battery 51R a Good Choice for Hybrid Cars?

This question came up when my cousin was looking to replace the battery in her Toyota Prius. The answer requires some clarification: hybrid vehicles typically have two battery systems:

1. A high-voltage battery pack that powers the electric motor
2. A conventional 12-volt battery (like the 51R) that powers accessories and the vehicle’s computer systems

The Everstart Battery 51R can be used as a replacement for the 12-volt battery in certain hybrid vehicles, including some Toyota Prius models and Honda Insight vehicles, depending on the year and configuration. However, it’s NOT a replacement for the main hybrid battery pack.

When my cousin consulted with her mechanic, he confirmed that the 51R was compatible with her 2016 Prius’s 12-volt system. However, he noted that some hybrid vehicles have specific requirements for their 12-volt batteries, and in some cases, an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery might be preferable to a standard flooded lead-acid battery.

If you drive a hybrid vehicle, I strongly recommend:

1. Consulting your owner’s manual for specific battery requirements
2. Verifying compatibility with a dealer or hybrid-experienced mechanic
3. Considering the Everstart AGM version if your vehicle recommends this battery type

The main hybrid battery is a specialized component that typically requires dealer service when it needs replacement and is not interchangeable with conventional automotive batteries like the Everstart 51R.

What is the Difference Between Everstart Battery 51R and 51?

This distinction confused me initially, so I dug into the specifics. The primary difference between the Everstart Battery 51R and the standard Group 51 battery is the terminal configuration:

• Group 51R: The “R” stands for “reverse,” meaning the positive terminal is on the left side when facing the battery from the front of the vehicle, and the negative terminal is on the right.
• Group 51: The standard configuration has the positive terminal on the right and the negative on the left.

The physical dimensions of these batteries are identical:

• Length: Approximately 9.3 inches
• Width: Approximately 5 inches
• Height: Approximately 8.75 inches

However, installing a standard Group 51 battery in a vehicle designed for a 51R (or vice versa) is not recommended and may be impossible without cable modifications due to the reversed terminal positions. When I examined battery options at the store, I could clearly see the terminal position difference between the two types.

In terms of performance specifications, the 51 and 51R typically have identical electrical characteristics, including CCA ratings and reserve capacity. The difference is purely in the physical terminal arrangement.

If your vehicle currently has a Group 51R battery, you should replace it with another 51R to ensure proper fit and connection. Using the wrong configuration could lead to:

• Cables not reaching the terminals
• Improper connections causing electrical issues
• Potential shorts if modifications are attempted

My Final Thoughts on the Everstart Battery 51R

After more than a year with my Everstart Plus 51R battery and extensive research into the product line, I can offer some concluding insights.

The Everstart Battery 51R represents a solid value for most drivers with compatible vehicles. It offers reliable performance at a competitive price point, backed by convenient warranty service through Walmart’s extensive network. For everyday driving in moderate climates, it’s difficult to justify spending significantly more on premium battery brands when the Everstart performs its essential functions reliably.

That said, there are situations where upgrading to the Platinum version or even considering other brands might make sense:

• If you live in areas with extreme temperatures (consistently below 0°F or above 100°F)
• If your vehicle has high electrical demands from aftermarket accessories
• If you frequently go extended periods without driving your vehicle
• If you’ve experienced multiple battery failures and are seeking longer lifespan

What impressed me most was the overall value proposition. The combination of reasonable pricing, decent performance specifications, and convenient service makes the Everstart Battery 51R an intelligent choice for budget-conscious drivers who don’t want to compromise on reliability.

Remember that proper installation, regular maintenance of connections, and attention to warning signs of battery weakness can significantly extend the lifespan of any battery, including the Everstart 51R.

Whether you’re replacing a failed battery in an emergency like I was or proactively upgrading before problems arise, I hope this comprehensive guide helps you make an informed decision about the Everstart Battery 51R for your vehicle.