computer problems when changing batteries??

[Dinkydow]

The battery in my 94 Q just isn't holding charge so I bought a new one today. The one in the car is smaller, size wise, but 800 cranking amps, the new one is the original size for the 94 Q, so is larger in size but only 700 cranking amps. Actually my question is, they told me where I bought it there may be computer problems when I disconnect the battery and hook up the new one, they said it might loose its memory. What has your experience been?? Any advise would be appreciated!! Thank you!! Wayne

[Q451990]

Sometimes people have problems with the automatic drive positioner (memory driver's seat) after the replacement, but I've never heard of a computer failure. If you run in to a problem with your seat, let us know - someone has the reset procedure somewhere.

One thing to keep in mind is that you definately want to get the largest physical size battery you can find that will fit. CCA is important too, but I think the numbers can be fudged a bit. I've had relatively good luck with Champion batteries from Sam's Club. 36mo free replacement is good. I've only paid for one battery since 1996.

Heath

[Dinkydow]

Thanks Heath, I appreciate the response! I will change it and hope My memory, seat, holds otherwise I feel confident someone will help me with reset. Wayne;)

[Q45tech]

They make a small battery which plugs into cigarette lighter to KEEP ALIVE the voltage for 10-15 minutes while technicans change the battery..........this is the normal proceedure since techs don't want to take the time to reprogram the radio etc.

This has been available for 15 years.

DIY have to add tools to do jobs correctly.

[Dinkydow]

Thanks for the reply Q45 Tech!! Wayne

[Dinkydow]

Heath, I was curious, why is it important to have as big, physically.. as possible? It is not that I doubt you, it is that I simpally don't know the answer.. Thanks!!! Wayne

[maxnix]

Hopefully you will have higher capacity and more reserve before you get into alternator damaging performance requirements.

[Dinkydow]

That makes sense. Thanks for info Brian. Wayne

[Q45tech]

There are at least 6 different alloy compositions in the lead plates used for different application/brands.....each has its own pluses and minuses not including cost.Based on volume [size of case] the heaviest battery has the heaviest thichest plates as the plastic case is very light same with volume of acid in each of 4 compartments.

There are tricks to increase the as new CCA CA [for testing]that won't last............they only warranty that a brand new battery meets the numbers not a 6 month old one.

Why Nissan oem batteries last 4-5 years whereas many aftermarket are DONE by 2-3 years........sure the prorated warranty [5 years may get you another one for half price but the time or chance of a dead battery isn't worth the $35.

[Dinkydow]

Thanks for info, Q45 Tech. That anwsers my question. I appreciate it!! Wayne

[bcg33478]

This happened to my wife while I was away on vacation so please consider the circumstances.

My wife and her friend had borrowed my car to go shopping. Coming out from the store, my 98 Q45 would not start. They called her friend's husband who came out to give the Q a jump. The Q started but the engine soon died. This repeated a couple of times until my wife finally called me. Being that I was half way across the country on business, I instructed her to call Infinity roadside assistance as the Q was still under the original warranty. They towed the Q in and the next day, my wife picked up the Q and the local Infinity dealer. The story related to me was that the battery died which tripped the Q's computer. The dealer had to reprogram the computer. The Infiniti service rep had said that it was a security mechanism built into the Q.

Based on the above, it sounds like they fed my wife a bunch of bull. BTW, the new battery cost me around $80 but the tow, computer was covered under warranty.