Originally Posted By: wrcsixeight
AAA likely chooses the manufacturer by region.
Since they have to keep a fairly large number of different size and shape batteries on hand, It can be assumed that some batteries are pretty old.
Since flooded batteries self discharge ~15% every month at 75f, it is reasonable to assume that one could get a battery which has slowly self discharged to some degree, perhaps a significant degree.
Given the fact that when under 80% charged, the sulfates on the plate begin to harden, and since I also doubt Each AAA center actually keeps a battery float charged while waiting for a call out, that new AAA battery has likely already lost some portion of it's capacity before installation.
Then of course there is the fact that while alternators do a pretty good job at keeping a nearly fully charged battery at or near full charge, they are notoriously bad at bringing a battery from 80% to 100% charged. Short trip driving will not do it. Looooong highway drives might.
Always put a charger on each 'new' battery installed. Anytime you know you discharged the battery some, or a lot, use the charger when you can, preferably soon as you can.
The less a lead acid battery is discharged, and the longer it stays at or near full charge, the longer it's life.
Either the owner can pretend the vehicle is keeping it fully charged, or occasionally makes sure it is. Or, one could just ignore the battery, and then pay AAA too much the next time a battery does not live long enough.
Excellent point and very valid statements about the discharge rates/etc.
Also, Most people using the AAA service are more concerned with convenience/safety rather than thinking about the actual brand of battery.