best battery? source?

[m3f_marked23]

I need a new battery. The dealer wants $2??.00 for the battery. Are there better sources for this battery? I want to get the factory size/shape/rating, but not pay the dealer price.



-Mark

[m3f_Angella_c036ec6b5f]

I've heard people recommend the Interstate MTP-91 for the m3...



I just jotted it down 'cause I thought I might need one some day : )



also, some kind of bosch - don't know the details.



Everyone seems to be of the same opinion, DO NOT BUY FROM THE DEALER.

[m3f_Hellrotm3_5ee6359855]

I have an optima RED top and have had 0 problems, i switched it out when i got it due to needing extra help for my system. Its been about a year, and no complaints here. Its definitely cheaper than over 200 too!



Hellrot///M3











I've heard people recommend the Interstate MTP-91 for the m3...



I just jotted it down 'cause I thought I might need one some day : )



also, some kind of bosch - don't know the details.



Everyone seems to be of the same opinion, DO NOT BUY FROM THE DEALER.

[m3f_astan100_7ef66fbe89]

I have a receipt for a new battery that the previous owner bought for the car. It was purchased with labor (obviously not too much) for like 150 bucks.



Maybe try calling another dealer in your area and see if they have a different price.

[m3f_mfree_dad161963d]

red top!!!!

[m3f_rmani_0d74af4953]

a lot of people have been recommending the MTP-91 Interstate battery. It's a perfect fit and I think I'm going to go with it since I need a new battery too. It costs around $90-100.

[m3f_bonzkrushe_08b74dc7e3]

I just bought the Interstate MTP-91 from Firestone for 90 bucks. It works great. I changed the battery out in 15 mins. Make sure you get the Vent kit with the battery.



Stephen

97 Coupe

[m3f_Roadrunner_00430f3330]

i have to agree, optima RED top.

[m3f_rmani_0d74af4953]

what exactly is the vent kit? is i included w/ the battery?

[m3f_97BLKM3COU_0f375e15e2]

I didn't get the vent kit, but used the previous vent kit from the factory battery and some extra tubing from my fish tank to extend it and made it work.



The vent kit is to "vent" the battery to the outside. Since the battery is in the trunk, it is safer to make sure the gasses vent to the outsite.



Does the optima mount right up, or do you have to fabricate something?



I knew a worker at Firestone and got the interstate battery for $75.

[m3f_CarQz17_da02e24fb5]

Is the red top or the interstate better for someone with an aftermarket sound system??



My battery is shot completely....wont even hold a charge.

[m3f_97BLKM3COU_0f375e15e2]

The will both work fine. One is a bit lighter and is sealed, but a bit more exensive. I have also heard that some of the Optima batteries will require some "L" brackets to mount properly.