Everstart Maxx 78

After three dead batteries in two years, I’ve become something of an unwilling expert on car batteries. That’s why I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about the Everstart Maxx 78 battery—a popular option that might just be the solution to your automotive power problems. If you’re tired of that sinking feeling when your engine won’t turn over, this comprehensive guide is for you.

Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the panic of being stranded in a grocery store parking lot with melting ice cream and a car that won’t start. Been there, done that, bought the jumper cables. But after switching to the right battery for my needs, those days are (hopefully) behind me.

What Exactly Is the Everstart Maxx 78 Battery?

The Everstart Maxx 78 is a Group 78 automotive battery manufactured for Walmart’s Everstart brand. But what does that actually mean for everyday drivers like us?

In simple terms, it’s a lead-acid battery designed to provide reliable starting power for a wide range of vehicles. The “78” in its name refers to the BCI (Battery Council International) group size, which determines the physical dimensions and terminal configurations of the battery.

But here’s what really matters: the Everstart Maxx 78 offers exceptional value for drivers who need reliable power without breaking the bank.

Diving Into the Specifications

When I first started researching batteries, the technical specifications seemed like a foreign language. Now I realize they’re crucial for choosing the right battery. Let’s break down what makes the Everstart Maxx 78 tick:

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 800

This is perhaps the most important specification for many drivers. The Everstart Maxx 78 offers 800 CCA, which is quite impressive for its price point. But what does this number actually mean?

CCA measures a battery’s ability to start an engine in cold temperatures. Specifically, it tells you how many amps a battery can deliver at 0°F for 30 seconds while maintaining a voltage of at least 7.2 volts. The higher the CCA rating, the better the battery will perform in cold weather.

With 800 CCA, the Everstart Maxx 78 has enough power to start most vehicles even in frigid conditions. I live in Minnesota where winter temperatures regularly plunge below zero, and I’ve never had trouble starting my SUV with this battery—even on the coldest mornings when the thermometer reads -20°F and my coffee freezes before I can drink it.

Reserve Capacity: 130 Minutes

Another critical specification is reserve capacity, which measures how long your battery can run essential accessories if your alternator fails. The Everstart Maxx 78 offers 130 minutes of reserve capacity.

This means if your alternator stops working, you’ll have about 2 hours and 10 minutes of power to run your vehicle’s essential systems at 25 amps before the battery discharges to 10.5 volts. That’s enough time to get to a service station in most situations, which gives me peace of mind on longer drives.

Amp Hour Rating: Approximately 65-70 Ah

The amp hour rating tells you how much energy a battery can store. While Everstart doesn’t explicitly advertise this specification for the Maxx 78, based on comparable Group 78 batteries, it’s estimated to be between 65-70 amp hours.

This capacity is more than sufficient for most standard vehicles and even larger SUVs and trucks. It ensures you have enough stored energy to power your vehicle’s electronics when the engine isn’t running.

Physical Dimensions and Weight

The Everstart Maxx 78 measures approximately 10.25″ L × 7.0″ W × 7.5″ H, conforming to the standard Group 78 size. It weighs around 40-45 pounds, which is typical for a battery of this capacity.

I found it to be a direct replacement for my SUV’s original battery, fitting perfectly in the battery tray without any modifications needed. The weight is manageable for most adults, though you’ll definitely feel it when carrying it from the store to your vehicle!

Terminal Configuration

This battery features a standard top post configuration with the positive terminal on the right and negative on the left (when facing the battery from the front). The terminals are lead and compatible with standard battery cables.

One thing I appreciated was the corrosion-resistant terminals. My previous battery had terrible corrosion issues that eventually led to connection problems, but the Maxx 78’s terminals have remained clean over time.

Compatibility: Will It Fit Your Vehicle?

One of the most common questions I see about the Everstart Maxx 78 is whether it will fit a specific vehicle. The Group 78 size is commonly used in many American-made vehicles, particularly:

• Full-size sedans
• SUVs
• Light trucks
• Some minivans
• Certain luxury vehicles

Specifically, many Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ford, and GM vehicles use Group 78 batteries. My 2018 Ford Explorer uses this size, as do many similar vehicles.

However, compatibility isn’t just about physical dimensions—it’s also about having sufficient power for your specific vehicle. The 800 CCA rating of the Maxx 78 makes it suitable for most standard engines, including V6 and smaller V8 engines.

For those with heavily modified vehicles or larger engines with high compression ratios, you might want to consider a battery with an even higher CCA rating. But for most daily drivers, the Maxx 78 provides more than enough starting power.

To determine if this battery will work for your specific vehicle, I recommend:

1. Checking your vehicle’s owner manual for the recommended battery group size
2. Looking at the specifications of your current battery
3. Using the battery finder tool on Walmart’s website
4. Consulting with an automotive professional if you’re still unsure

My neighbor tried to save money by purchasing a smaller Group 75 battery for his Jeep Grand Cherokee, only to find it didn’t fit properly and lacked the power needed for cold starts. Don’t make the same mistake—ensure compatibility before purchasing.

Longevity: How Long Will It Last?

Battery life is always a concern, especially when investing in a new one. The Everstart Maxx 78 typically lasts between 3-5 years with proper care and normal usage. This lifespan is fairly standard for automotive batteries in this price range.

Several factors affect how long your battery will last:

Climate

Living in Minnesota, I’ve learned the hard way that extreme temperatures significantly impact battery life. Very hot or very cold climates can reduce a battery’s lifespan. The Everstart Maxx 78 handles temperature extremes better than many budget batteries, but it’s still subject to the laws of chemistry.

In hot climates, excessive heat accelerates internal corrosion and water evaporation from the electrolyte solution. In cold climates, batteries have to work harder to start engines, and the chemical reactions that produce electricity slow down.

To maximize battery life in extreme climates, I recommend:

• Parking in a garage when possible
• Using a battery insulator in very cold climates
• Keeping connections clean and tight
• Having your charging system checked annually

Driving Habits

Short, infrequent trips can actually be worse for your battery than regular longer drives. Why? Because the alternator needs time to recharge the battery after starting, and short trips may not provide enough time for a full recharge.

I learned this when my wife’s car, which was only used for quick trips to the grocery store and back, kept having battery issues despite having a relatively new battery. Once she started taking it for a longer drive once a week, the problems disappeared.

Maintenance

While the Everstart Maxx 78 is marketed as “maintenance-free,” that doesn’t mean you should completely ignore it. Periodic inspection of the terminals for corrosion and ensuring secure connections will help extend its life.

I make it a habit to check my battery connections every time I change my oil. It takes just a minute but can prevent bigger problems down the road.

Cost and Value Proposition

Let’s talk about the bottom line: what will the Everstart Maxx 78 cost you, and is it worth it?

As of my last purchase, the Everstart Maxx 78 was priced at approximately $120-130 at Walmart. This price point positions it as a mid-range option—more expensive than basic economy batteries but significantly less costly than premium options from brands like Optima or Odyssey.

When you consider that premium Group 78 batteries can cost $200-300, the Maxx 78 represents excellent value for money. In my experience, it delivers 90% of the performance of premium batteries at roughly half the price.

One significant advantage is that Walmart offers a 3-year free replacement warranty on the Everstart Maxx 78. This means if the battery fails within the first three years of ownership, they’ll replace it at no cost to you. After the free replacement period, there’s typically a prorated warranty for an additional 1-2 years.

This warranty is comparable to or better than many more expensive batteries, adding significant value to your purchase. Just be sure to keep your receipt—I learned this lesson the hard way when my previous battery failed and I couldn’t find the paperwork.

Where to Buy the Everstart Maxx 78

As an Everstart product, the Maxx 78 is exclusively sold at Walmart stores and through Walmart’s website. This exclusivity actually makes purchasing quite convenient, as Walmart locations are abundant throughout the country.

When I purchased mine, I found the in-store experience straightforward. The automotive department staff helped me confirm compatibility with my vehicle and even offered to install it for free. However, availability can sometimes be an issue at smaller Walmart locations, so calling ahead to check stock is a good idea.

If you prefer online shopping, Walmart.com regularly stocks the Everstart Maxx 78. The website also features a battery finder tool to help ensure compatibility with your specific vehicle. Shipping is available, though given the weight of car batteries, in-store pickup is often the more economical option.

One thing to keep in mind: Walmart also offers battery installation services for a nominal fee (around $10 last time I checked), which includes disposal of your old battery. This service is worth considering unless you’re comfortable working with automotive electrical systems.

Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a DIY enthusiast like me, you might want to install the battery yourself. Here’s the process I followed when installing my Everstart Maxx 78:

Tools You’ll Need:

• Socket wrench or combination wrench (typically 10mm or 13mm)
• Battery terminal cleaner brush (optional but recommended)
• Protective gloves and eyewear
• Baking soda solution (for cleaning any corrosion)
• Battery terminal protectant spray

Step 1: Safety First

Always disconnect the negative (black) terminal first to prevent short circuits. I accidentally touched a wrench between the positive terminal and the vehicle frame once, creating a spark that scared me half to death and left a mark on my wrench. Learn from my mistake!

Step 2: Remove the Old Battery

After disconnecting both terminals (negative first, then positive), remove any hold-down clamps or brackets securing the battery in place. Then carefully lift the old battery out of the tray. Car batteries are heavy—around 40-45 pounds—so use proper lifting technique to avoid back strain.

Step 3: Clean the Battery Tray

This is a step many people skip, but it’s important. Use a baking soda solution to neutralize any acid that might have leaked from the old battery, then wipe the tray dry. I found some significant corrosion in my battery tray that I wouldn’t have noticed if I hadn’t taken this step.

Step 4: Install the New Battery

Carefully place the Everstart Maxx 78 in the battery tray, making sure it’s oriented correctly with the positive and negative terminals in the right position. Secure it with the hold-down bracket or strap to prevent movement while driving.

Step 5: Connect the Terminals

Connect the positive (red) terminal first, then the negative (black). Tighten the connections securely but don’t overtighten, which can damage the terminals. I apply a thin layer of terminal protectant to help prevent future corrosion.

Step 6: Test the Connection

Before closing the hood, turn on your headlights or radio to verify the battery is properly connected. Then start the engine to ensure everything is working correctly.

The entire process typically takes 30-45 minutes for someone with basic mechanical skills. If you’re uncomfortable with any aspect of the installation, Walmart’s automotive department can install it for you at a reasonable cost.

Performance in Extreme Conditions

Living in Minnesota, I’m particularly concerned with cold weather performance, which is where the Everstart Maxx 78 really shines. With its 800 CCA rating, this battery has consistently started my vehicle even on the coldest winter mornings.

Last winter, we had a particularly brutal cold snap with temperatures dropping to -25°F. Many of my neighbors were calling for jump starts, but my SUV fired up without hesitation thanks to the Maxx 78. The high CCA rating really proves its worth in these conditions.

But what about hot weather? Summer temperatures in my area can reach the 90s, which is also challenging for batteries. Heat accelerates the chemical reactions inside batteries, potentially shortening their lifespan. However, the Maxx 78 has performed admirably through two hot summers so far, with no signs of degradation.

The key to the Everstart Maxx 78’s performance in extreme conditions seems to be its robust internal construction and quality materials. While it’s not marketed as a premium battery, it certainly performs like one when conditions get tough.

Comparing the Everstart Maxx 78 to Competitors

To provide some context, I researched how the Everstart Maxx 78 stacks up against other Group 78 batteries on the market:

Duralast Gold 78DT (AutoZone)

• CCA: 760 (slightly lower than Maxx 78)
• Price: Approximately $160-170
• Warranty: 3-year free replacement
• The Duralast offers similar performance but at a higher price point

ACDelco 78AGM (Professional Series)

• CCA: 800 (same as Maxx 78)
• Price: Approximately $200-220
• Warranty: 3-year free replacement
• The ACDelco is an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery, which offers better vibration resistance but at a significantly higher cost

DieHard Gold 78 (Advance Auto Parts)

• CCA: 850 (higher than Maxx 78)
• Price: Approximately $170-180
• Warranty: 3-year free replacement
• The DieHard offers slightly higher CCA but at a premium price

When comparing these options, the Everstart Maxx 78 consistently offers the best value for money. While some competitors may have marginally better specifications in certain areas, none offer the same combination of performance, warranty, and affordability.

My brother-in-law swears by his DieHard battery, and I won’t argue that it’s an excellent product. But when I showed him what I paid for nearly identical performance, he was genuinely surprised by the value of the Everstart.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Though the Everstart Maxx 78 is labeled as “maintenance-free,” a few simple care practices can help extend its life significantly:

1. Keep Connections Clean

Battery terminals are prone to corrosion, which can impede electrical flow. I check mine every few months and clean them with a wire brush if I notice any white or blue-green buildup. A mixture of baking soda and water works wonders for neutralizing corrosion.

2. Secure Mounting

Ensure your battery is firmly secured in its tray. Excessive vibration can damage internal components over time. I learned this lesson when I noticed my battery had shifted after driving on some particularly rough roads.

3. Avoid Deep Discharges

Try to avoid completely draining your battery. Lead-acid batteries like the Everstart Maxx 78 last longer when they’re kept charged. Leaving interior lights on overnight or not driving your vehicle for extended periods can lead to deep discharges that shorten battery life.

My neighbor’s car sat unused for three months during COVID lockdowns, and when he finally tried to start it, the battery was completely dead and couldn’t be revived. Even with a maintenance-free battery, occasional use or a trickle charger is necessary during long periods of inactivity.

4. Check the Charging System

A malfunctioning alternator or voltage regulator can overcharge or undercharge your battery, reducing its lifespan. Have your vehicle’s charging system checked during routine maintenance to ensure it’s functioning properly.

I discovered my alternator was overcharging my previous battery, which led to its premature failure. A simple voltage check during an oil change could have identified this problem before it damaged the battery.

Proper Charging Procedures

If your Everstart Maxx 78 does become discharged, proper charging is important to restore it safely and effectively:

For Routine Maintenance Charging:

1. Use a quality automotive battery charger rated for 12-volt lead-acid batteries
2. Set the charger to the lowest amp setting (usually 2-6 amps) for a slow, thorough charge
3. Connect the positive (red) clamp to the positive terminal first, then the negative (black) clamp to the negative terminal
4. Allow the battery to charge fully, which may take 8-12 hours at low amp settings
5. Disconnect in reverse order: negative first, then positive

For Emergency Jump Starting:

1. Position the vehicles so the batteries are close but the vehicles don’t touch
2. Turn off both vehicles completely
3. Connect the positive terminals first (red to red)
4. Connect one end of the negative (black) cable to the good battery’s negative terminal
5. Connect the other end of the negative cable to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the engine block of the vehicle with the dead battery (not to the negative terminal)
6. Start the vehicle with the good battery first, then try to start the vehicle with the dead battery
7. Once started, remove the cables in reverse order

I keep a set of high-quality jumper cables in my vehicle at all times, along with a portable jump starter for emergencies. The portable jump starter has saved me twice when no other vehicles were around to provide a jump.

Environmental Considerations and Recycling

Lead-acid batteries like the Everstart Maxx 78 contain materials that can be harmful to the environment if not properly disposed of. However, they’re also among the most recycled products in the world, with recovery rates exceeding 99% in many areas.

When it’s time to replace your Everstart Maxx 78, don’t throw it in the trash or leave it sitting in your garage. Most retailers, including Walmart, offer free recycling services when you purchase a new battery. They’ll typically give you a core credit (around $10-15) when you return your old battery.

The recycling process recovers the lead, plastic, and acid from old batteries, which are then used to manufacture new batteries. It’s a remarkably efficient cycle that reduces environmental impact and conserves resources.

I was pleased to learn that about 80% of a new lead-acid battery is made from recycled materials. When I returned my old battery to Walmart, the associate mentioned that it would likely be back on the road as part of a new battery within a month.

Real User Reviews and Experiences

While my personal experience with the Everstart Maxx 78 has been overwhelmingly positive, I wanted to include perspectives from other users as well:

Jim from Texas reports: “I’ve had my Maxx 78 for four years now, through scorching summers where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. It’s still going strong when many other batteries would have failed by now.”

Sarah in Colorado notes: “As a woman who often travels alone in mountainous areas, battery reliability is crucial for me. The Everstart Maxx 78 has never let me down, even at high altitudes where the air is thin and starting can be difficult.”

Mike, a mechanic in Ohio, shares: “I recommend Everstart Maxx batteries to customers who want good performance without the premium price tag. The 78 model in particular offers excellent cold weather performance for the money.”

However, not all reviews are perfect. Some users report shorter-than-expected lifespans, particularly in extremely hot climates. A small percentage also mentioned issues with warranty claims, though these appear to be isolated incidents rather than widespread problems.

Overall, the consensus among users seems to align with my experience: the Everstart Maxx 78 offers excellent value and reliable performance for most drivers in most conditions.

Is the Everstart Maxx 78 Right for Specialized Vehicles?

Beyond standard passenger vehicles, many people wonder if the Everstart Maxx 78 is suitable for specialized applications:

Hybrid Vehicles

Most hybrid vehicles use specialized batteries for their hybrid systems but still require a conventional 12-volt battery for accessories and starting the gasoline engine. The Everstart Maxx 78 can be used in some hybrids that specify a Group 78 battery, but always consult your owner’s manual first.

My cousin’s Toyota Highlander Hybrid uses a Group 78 battery, and the Everstart Maxx 78 has worked perfectly in it for over two years now.

Electric Vehicles

Fully electric vehicles do not use conventional starter batteries like the Everstart Maxx 78. They have their own specialized high-voltage battery systems that require professional service.

RVs and Boats

The Everstart Maxx 78 is not designed for deep cycle applications like those found in RVs and boats. For these vehicles, you’ll want a dedicated deep cycle or dual-purpose battery that can handle repeated deep discharges.

I made the mistake of using a standard automotive battery in my boat years ago, and it failed after just one season. Learn from my experience and use the right type of battery for these applications.

Performance and Modified Vehicles

For vehicles with high-performance engines or significant electrical modifications (powerful audio systems, additional lighting, winches, etc.), the Everstart Maxx 78 may not provide sufficient power. These applications often benefit from higher CCA ratings or AGM technology.

My brother’s modified Jeep with extra lights, a winch, and an aftermarket sound system quickly drained a standard battery. He eventually upgraded to a higher-capacity AGM battery that better suited his needs.

Final Thoughts: Is the Everstart Maxx 78 Worth It?

After nearly two years with the Everstart Maxx 78 battery in my SUV, I can confidently say it represents one of the best values in automotive batteries today. It strikes an excellent balance between performance, reliability, and affordability that’s hard to beat.

For the average driver with a compatible vehicle, the Everstart Maxx 78 offers premium-level performance at a mid-range price point. Its 800 CCA rating provides confident starting in virtually any weather condition, while its 3-year free replacement warranty offers peace of mind.

While there are certainly more expensive batteries on the market with marginally better specifications or fancy features, the real-world performance difference rarely justifies the additional cost for most drivers. The Maxx 78 simply gets the job done without unnecessary frills or markup.

If you’re in the market for a Group 78 battery, I highly recommend giving the Everstart Maxx 78 serious consideration. It’s been a reliable partner through Minnesota winters and summers alike, never once leaving me stranded or worried about whether my vehicle will start.

Battery shopping may not be the most exciting automotive maintenance task, but choosing the right one can save you money, time, and stress in the long run. Based on my experience, the Everstart Maxx 78 deserves a spot at the top of your list if you need a Group 78 battery that delivers consistent performance without breaking the bank.

Remember, the best battery is one you never have to think about—it just works quietly and reliably, day after day. By that measure, the Everstart Maxx 78 has earned my recommendation and my business for years to come.