The Complete Guide to Group 24 Batteries

Group 24 batteries are a type of lead-acid car battery commonly used in large trucks, RVs, farm equipment, and other heavy-duty vehicles. As their name implies, they fit a standard "group size" that has specific dimensions established by the Battery Council International. But what exactly are group 24 batteries, and why are they a popular choice for powering large vehicles? This guide will explore everything you need to know.

Table of Content

What is Group Size?
Basic Information about Group 24 Battery
Is There Maintenance-Free and Lighter Group 24 Battery?
Choosing Your Power: A Comparison of LiTime Group 24 Models
FAQs about Group 24 Batteries

What is Group Size?

The group size on a battery refers to its standardized physical dimensions that are assigned by the Battery Council International (BCI). There are several common group size designations for lead-acid automotive starter batteries:

Group 24 - A large battery commonly used in heavy duty vehicles like trucks. It has dimensions of about 10" x 7" x 9".
Group 27 - An even larger battery used for commercial vehicles and trucks. Approximately 12" x 7" x 9" in size.
Group 35 - A mid-sized battery used in many passenger cars. Around 10" x 7" x 7" in dimensions.
Group 51R - A small battery for compact cars and some motorcycles. Common dimensions of 5" x 5" x 4".
Group 65 - A large battery used in performance cars, trucks, or diesel vehicles. Approximately 12" x 6" x 9" in size.

battery size

The group size allows for standardized trays, clamps, and other accessories to fit a range of batteries from different manufacturers as long as they share the same group size designation.

Knowing the right group size is important when replacing a battery to ensure proper fitment and electrical connections to the vehicle. The group size is usually imprinted on the top or side label of the battery along with other technical specs. Checking your vehicle owner's manual can also confirm the correct group size battery for your make and model.

Basic Information about Traditional Lead Acid Group 24 Battery

Specs and Technical Details

Traditional group 24 lead-acid batteries have the following specifications:

Voltage: 12V
Capacity: 50-100 Ah
Dimensions: 10" x 6 7/8" x 8 15/16"
Terminal type: SAE / GM posts
Average weight: 50-60 lbs

The high CCA provides the power to start diesel engines. The size offers capacity to run accessories.

Applications and Vehicle Compatibility

Group 24 batteries are most commonly found in:

Heavy-duty trucks like semi-trucks and dump trucks
RV motorhomes
Buses
Commercial work vans
Agricultural equipment Diesel pickup trucks

Advantages of Group 24 Batteries

Group 24 batteries offer numerous advantages for automotive and marine use. They have a higher capacity, allowing for longer run times before needing recharge. Some lead acid group 24 batteries also provide sufficient power output for engine starting efficiency. These batteries are compact and easy to install in tight spaces. They are built to withstand tough environments and extreme temperatures.

Many Group 24 batteries are maintenance-free, eliminating the need for regular upkeep. Moreover, they are easily accessible, making them convenient to replace or upgrade when necessary.

In summary, Group 24 batteries offer a well-rounded combination of power, size, and durability, making them a popular choice for automotive and marine applications.

How to Maintain Lead Acid Group 24 Battery

Maintaining a Group 24 battery is important to ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some tips to help you maintain a Group 24 battery:

Keep it clean

Regularly inspect the battery terminals and cables for any signs of corrosion or buildup. If you notice any, clean them using a mixture of baking soda and water, and a wire brush. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly.

Check the electrolyte level

For batteries with removable caps, check the electrolyte level regularly. Ensure the level is above the plates and add distilled water if needed. Do not overfill.

Avoid deep discharges

Group 24 batteries perform best when they are not deeply discharged. Try to keep the battery charged above 50% DOD to increase its lifespan. If the battery discharges frequently, consider using a battery maintainer or charger to keep it topped up.

Charge properly

When charging the battery, make sure to use a compatible charger that matches the battery's voltage and charging requirements. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overcharging.

Store in a cool, dry place

If you need to store the battery for an extended period, find a cool and dry location. Extreme temperatures can negatively affect the battery's performance and lifespan.

→ Suggested Reading: How To Properly Store Your LiFePO4 lithium Battery

Perform regular inspections

Check the battery for any physical damage, leaks, or signs of wear. If you notice any issues, it may be necessary to replace the battery.

Remember, specific maintenance requirements can vary based on the manufacturer's recommendations and the battery type. Always consult the battery's manual or contact the manufacturer for specific maintenance instructions.

Is There Maintenance-Free and Lighter Group 24 Battery?

Yes! Upgrading your Group 24 battery to lithium is one of the best ways to eliminate the hassle of regular maintenance. Traditional lead-acid batteries require periodic watering, equalization, and corrosion checks—but lithium batteries free you from all that.

They are a completely sealed, "set it and forget it" solution. This is largely thanks to their integrated Battery Management System (BMS), an internal circuit board that automatically handles cell balancing, charging, and discharging to protect the battery and maximize its lifespan. You never have to worry about checking electrolyte levels or cleaning corrosive acid buildup from your terminals again.

A Remarkably Lighter Alternative

One of the most immediate and impactful benefits of switching to a Group 24 lithium battery is the dramatic weight reduction. A typical lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) Group 24 battery weighs only 20-25 pounds. In stark contrast, a traditional lead-acid battery of the same size can weigh anywhere from 50 to 60 pounds.

This means you get the same, or often more, usable power while cutting the weight by more than half. The advantages are significant:

Easier Handling: Installation and removal become a simple, one-person job, reducing physical strain.
Improved Performance: For applications like RVs, boats, or trolling motors, shedding 30+ pounds of battery weight can lead to better fuel efficiency, improved handling, and a higher overall payload capacity.
Flexible Installation: The lighter weight allows for more versatile mounting options where a heavy lead-acid battery would not be suitable.

Choosing Your Power: A Comparison of LiTime Group 24 Models

LiTime offers a versatile lineup of 12V 100Ah Group 24 batteries, ensuring there's a perfect fit for every need and budget. While all three models provide the same core benefits of lightweight, maintenance-free power, they differ in key features like smart monitoring and cold-weather performance.

Let's break down the options to help you decide which one is right for your application.

At a Glance: LiTime Group 24 Battery Comparison

Feature	Standard	Smart Bluetooth	Smart Bluetooth & Self-Heating
Bluetooth Monitoring	No	Yes	Yes
Self-Heating	No	No	Yes
Weight	~21 lbs	~21.87 lbs	~22.71 lbs
Key Advantage	Most Affordable	Monitor from your phone	All-weather performance
Ideal For	Budget-conscious users in moderate climates	Users who want to track battery status easily	RVers, boaters, and off-gridders in cold climates

1. LiTime 12V 100Ah Group 24 Lithium Battery (Standard)

This is the foundational model in the Group 24 lineup, offering all the essential advantages of lithium technology at the most accessible price point. It's a no-frills, powerhouse battery that's perfect for users who want a simple, reliable, and lightweight drop-in replacement for their old lead-acid batteries.

Who it's for: The user who needs a straightforward, powerful, and budget-friendly lithium battery for use in environments where temperatures don't drop below freezing during charging.

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2. LiTime 12V 100Ah Group 24 Smart Bluetooth Battery

This mid-tier option includes the addition of Bluetooth 5.0 technology. This is a significant upgrade in convenience, allowing you to monitor the real-time status of your battery directly from your smartphone via the LiTime app. You can instantly check the state of charge (SOC), voltage, current, and overall health without needing an external battery monitor.

Who it's for: The tech-savvy user who values convenience and wants the ability to check their power status at a glance, without any guesswork.

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3. LiTime 12V 100Ah Group 24 Bluetooth & Self-Heating Battery

This is the premium, all-weather champion of the Group 24 series. It includes both Bluetooth monitoring and an innovative self-heating system. This is a critical feature for anyone who operates their RV, boat, or off-grid system in cold climates. LiFePO4 batteries cannot be safely charged at temperatures below freezing (32°F / 0°C). This battery's self-heating function automatically warms the cells before charging begins, ensuring you can reliably charge your battery and have power available even on the coldest days.

Who it's for: The serious RVer, boater, or off-grid enthusiast who demands reliable performance year-round, especially in locations with freezing winter temperatures.

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FAQs about Group 24 Batteries

1. What are the Differences Between a Group 24 and Group 31 Battery?

The main difference between a Group 24 and Group 31 battery lies in their physical size and capacity. Group 24 batteries are generally smaller and have a lower capacity compared to Group 31 batteries.

Group 24 batteries are commonly used in a wide range of applications, including automotive, marine, and recreational vehicles. They have dimensions of approximately 10.25 inches in length, 6.81 inches in width, and 9.43 inches in height. Group 24 batteries typically have a capacity of around 70-85 amp-hours (Ah) and are capable of delivering adequate power for engine starting and auxiliary functions.

On the other hand, Group 31 batteries are larger and have a higher capacity compared to Group 24 batteries. They are commonly used in heavy-duty applications, such as commercial trucks, buses, and other larger vehicles. Group 31 batteries have dimensions of approximately 13 inches in length, 6.75 inches in width, and 9.44 inches in height. They typically have a capacity of 95-125 Ah or more, making them suitable for vehicles that require higher power output and longer running times.

For more details can read on Deep Cycle Group 24 VS Group 31.

2. Are Group 24 the Same as Group 27?

No. The Group 27 battery is significantly larger than the Group 24 cells, but it delivers greater power. If size isn’t a concern, they can be used interchangeably.

For more information on the differences between thses 2 kinds of batteries, click on Group 24 vs. Group 27 Battery to learn more.

3. How Do I Know What Group Size Battery I Need?

If you need to purchase a replacement battery for your vehicle, the first step is determining the proper group size. There are a couple ways to do this:

1. Consult the battery section of your owner's manual. Vehicle manufacturers specify the recommended group size battery in the manual.

2. Inspect your existing battery. The group size designation will be physically stamped or printed in several visible locations on the battery itself. Common spots include the top, side, or terminals.

If neither the owner's manual nor your current battery are available, you may need to conduct further research online using your vehicle make, model, and year. Properly identifying the group size is crucial to ensuring a new battery will correctly fit and function with your specific vehicle's electrical system. Installing the wrong size can lead to connection or clearance issues. So take the time to verify the group before making your purchase.

4. Can I Install a Smaller Battery as a Replacement?

No, it's not recommended to install a battery that is not the correct group size. The connections and trays are designed specifically for group 24 dimensions. Using another size risks damage or electrical issues. Always replace with an identical group 24 battery.

5. How Can I Tell If My Group 24 Battery Needs to Be Replaced?

Signs include cracked or bulging cases, corrosion on the terminals, inability to hold a full charge, or if the vehicle has trouble starting. A load tester or multimeter can also determine if it still has sufficient cranking amps and reserve capacity. Read on How To Tell If A Deep Cycle Battery is Bad for more information.

6. Can I mix different group sizes batteries?

It's not recommended to mix batteries of different group sizes, types, or capacities in the same system. Battery group sizes refer to the physical dimensions and terminal placements, but different group sizes often come with different internal chemistries, capacities, and performance characteristics. Mixing them can lead to imbalanced charging and discharging, reduced overall performance, and even potential safety issues.

For optimal results, always use batteries of the same size, voltage, capacity, and chemistry—ideally from the same brand and production batch. This ensures your system stays balanced and your batteries operate efficiently and safely. If you're considering an upgrade or replacement, it's best to replace all batteries in the bank with matching units to ensure long-term reliability.

Conclusion

New advanced lithium battery technology is raising the bar in some applications. For those seeking maximum power density and lighter weight, a lithium conversion of the group 24 size may provide benefits.

Upgrading to a lithium group 24 replacement could future-proof your heavy duty rig for changing power demands. Lithium represents a long-term investment that may save on battery replacement costs over the life of the vehicle.

The Complete Guide to Group 24 Batteries

Table of Content

What is Group Size?