Battery Size Group 86

Group Size 86 Battery: Compact, Top-Terminal Power for Canadian Cars

The Group Size 86 battery is a compact, top-terminal automotive battery that fits a variety of older and economy-class vehicles. It’s most commonly found in select GM compact sedans, but it's also used in a few newer subcompacts that require a reliable, space-efficient battery for cold-weather starts and daily driving across Canada.

If you're looking for an affordable, no-frills battery with top-mounted posts, Group 86 might be the right fit.

Size, Specs, and Price in Canada

Group 86 batteries are 12-volt units featuring top post terminals, not side terminals. They typically measure 9.06 inches long, 6.88 inches wide, and 8.13 inches high, making them one of the more compact options available.

Average performance specs:

• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 500 to 650

• Cranking Amps (CA): 625 to 800

• Amp-Hour (Ah): 45 to 60Ah

In Canada, you can expect to pay around $140 to $210, depending on the brand and type (flooded or AGM). Most Group 86 batteries include a 2- to 3-year free replacement warranty, which suits daily drivers well.

Vehicles That Use Group 86 Batteries

Group 86 batteries are used in a variety of older and compact vehicles with top-post configurations. Common applications include:

Older GM and Chrysler Cars:

• Chevrolet Cavalier (1995–2005)

• Pontiac Sunfire

• Buick Skylark

• Oldsmobile Achieva

• Dodge Neon (some trims)

More Recent Vehicles (select trims):

• Chevrolet Aveo (2004–2011)

• Chevrolet Sonic (2012–2018)

• Chevrolet Spark (2013–2022)

• Pontiac G3

• Hyundai Accent (older trims with top terminals)

If you're not sure whether your vehicle takes a Group 86 battery, consult your owner’s manual or visit our Car Battery Replacement page.

Alternative Battery Sizes for Group 86

If a Group 86 battery isn’t available, you may be able to substitute with these top-terminal batteries, as long as they physically fit in your battery tray and match your hold-down and cable layout:

• Group 51R – Slightly longer and narrower; reversed terminals Dimensions: 9.38" x 5.06" x 8.75"

• Group 35 – A bit larger, higher capacity, may fit with tray adjustment Dimensions: 9.06" x 6.88" x 8.88"

• Group 26R – Smaller and slightly shorter; may be used in a pinch Dimensions: 8.19" x 6.81" x 7.75"

Always check the physical space, hold-down bracket, and cable reach before switching. Learn more at How It Works.

How to Know When Your Group 86 Battery Needs Replacing

Here are common signs that your battery might be on its way out:

1. Sluggish engine cranking, especially in the cold

2. Voltage below 12.4V when idle, or below 9.6V during startup

3. Battery or check engine light appears

4. Corrosion on terminals or visible swelling in the battery case

Not comfortable testing it yourself? MobileBattery offers mobile testing and installation in cities like Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto.

Battery Lifespan in Canadian Conditions

In Canada, the Group Size 86 battery typically lasts 3 to 5 years, depending on the weather and driving habits. Extreme temperatures, short trips, and high accessory use (defrosters, heated seats, etc.) can shorten battery life. Once your battery reaches three years old, it’s wise to have it tested yearly.

Check our Where We Service page to see if MobileBattery is available in your area.

Need a Group Size 86 Battery Replacement?

Book online now at bookonline.mobilebattery.ca for professional Group 86 battery delivery and installation anywhere in Canada.