A dependable lawn mower battery is the unsung hero of a well-manicured lawn. When you turn the key or push the start button, you expect an immediate, reliable response. A weak or failing battery can leave you stranded, turning a simple lawn care task into a frustrating ordeal. For Craftsman mower owners, selecting the right replacement is crucial for maintaining that trusty performance season after season.
This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best battery options for your Craftsman lawn mower. From traditional lead-acid starting batteries to modern lithium-ion packs for cordless tools, we’ve compiled a list to ensure you find the perfect match. Whether you need maximum cranking power for a riding mower or extended runtime for a push model, a reliable start is just a few clicks away.
Our Top Craftsman Lawn Mower Battery Picks
- Autocessking Lawn Garden AGM Battery Group 1
- MARXON U1 360CCA Riding Lawn Mower Batteries
- Marxon U1 330CCA Riding Lawn Mower Batteries
- Mighty Max Battery ML-U1 for Craftsman 25780
- Mighty Max Battery ML-U1R-CCAHR for Craftsman LT1000
- Mighty Max Battery ML18-12 for 90508011 Craftsman
- WEIZE Lawn Garden AGM Battery, 12V 200CCA
- UGLOEY 2Pack 20V 6.0Ah V20 Lithium ion Batteries
- CRAFTSMAN V20 Battery, 2.0 Ah, Lithium Ion
- Craftsman CMXGZAM1100743 12V 100 CCA Powersports
Autocessking Lawn Garden AGM Battery Group 1
The Autocessking AGM Battery is a solid Group U1 option designed for reliable starting power in a variety of lawn and garden equipment. With 200 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), it provides the necessary jolt to fire up your Craftsman mower, as well as models from John Deere, Toro, and Cub Cadet. Its Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) technology makes it a sealed, maintenance-free battery, so you never have to worry about checking water levels or dealing with acid leaks.
This rechargeable SLA (Sealed Lead Acid) battery is built for the rigors of outdoor power equipment. It resists vibration and can be mounted in multiple orientations without risk of spillage, offering great flexibility during installation. If you are looking for a straightforward, dependable replacement battery that fits a standard U1 form factor, the Autocessking is a strong contender.
MARXON U1 360CCA Riding Lawn Mower Batteries
For those who need superior starting power, the MARXON U1 battery delivers an impressive 360 CCA. This high output is ideal for larger riding mowers and garden tractors, especially in colder weather when engines are harder to turn over. It is a maintenance-free AGM battery, ensuring a hassle-free ownership experience with no regular upkeep required.
This battery is constructed with shockproof material that enhances its durability and heat resistance. This build quality means it can withstand the high-temperature environments commonly found in mower engine compartments, leading to a longer service life and consistent performance. Its wide compatibility includes popular models from Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, and Ariens, making it a versatile and powerful choice.
Marxon U1 330CCA Riding Lawn Mower Batteries
Another excellent offering from MARXON, this U1 battery provides a robust 330 CCA, striking a great balance between power and value. It shares the same durable, heat-resistant construction as its higher-CCA sibling, making it a reliable component for your lawn tractor. The sealed AGM design guarantees safe operation and easy installation.
This battery is noted for its extensive compatibility list, covering a wide range of Craftsman, John Deere, and Cub Cadet mowers. Whether you have a Craftsman 25780 or a ZT7000, this battery is engineered to fit and perform. It arrives with the necessary screws, getting you one step closer to a quick and successful replacement.
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1 for Craftsman 25780
Mighty Max is a trusted name in replacement batteries, and this ML-U1 model is a direct fit for the Craftsman 25780 Lawn Tractor. With 200 CCA, it meets the standard power requirements for many popular riding mowers. Its SLA/AGM construction is completely spill-proof and maintenance-free, allowing for versatile mounting.
This battery is designed with a high discharge rate and can operate in wide temperature ranges, which is essential for outdoor power equipment that faces seasonal extremes. The long service life and ability to recover from deep discharges make it a resilient and cost-effective choice for homeowners seeking a reliable replacement.
Mighty Max Battery ML-U1R-CCAHR for Craftsman LT1000
This Mighty Max battery is specifically engineered as a replacement for the Craftsman LT1000 and other mowers requiring a U1 battery with reversed polarity. It offers a strong 320 CCA, providing plenty of power for reliable starts. The “R” in the model name indicates the terminal polarity is Positive on the Right and Negative on the Left, which is a critical detail for a proper and safe fit.
Like other Mighty Max products, it features a sealed AGM design that is safe, maintenance-free, and resistant to vibration. Its compact dimensions ensure it will slot perfectly into the battery tray of compatible Craftsman mowers, making the installation process straightforward for most users.
Mighty Max Battery ML18-12 for 90508011 Craftsman
The Mighty Max ML18-12 is a 12V 18AH battery designed as a replacement for specific Craftsman Black Lawn Mowers, matching part number 90508011. Unlike starting batteries, this deep-cycle battery is built to provide a steady amount of current over a longer period, which is ideal for electric mowers that run on battery power alone.
This UL-certified battery is sealed and maintenance-free, with nut and bolt terminals for secure connections. Its high discharge rate and long service life make it a dependable power source for cordless lawn care equipment. If your Craftsman mower is an electric model, this is the type of battery you will need to keep it running.
WEIZE Lawn Garden AGM Battery, 12V 200CCA
WEIZE offers a reliable Group U1 AGM battery that serves as a direct replacement for many lawn tractors and mowers. With 200 CCA, it delivers consistent starting power for Craftsman, John Deere, Toro, and Cub Cadet equipment. The BCI Group U1 designation ensures it will fit into the standard battery compartments of these machines.
This battery uses advanced AGM technology, making it spill-proof and safe to use in any orientation. It is built to handle the vibration and shock associated with outdoor power equipment, contributing to its longevity and dependable performance season after season.
UGLOEY 2Pack 20V 6.0Ah V20 Lithium ion Batteries
For owners of Craftsman 20V MAX cordless mowers and tools, this two-pack from UGLOEY provides a substantial upgrade. Each battery offers a high 6.0Ah capacity, which can deliver up to twice the runtime of standard smaller-capacity batteries. This means you can mow for longer on a single charge, reducing interruptions.
These lithium-ion batteries are compatible with all original Craftsman 20V lithium ion chargers and power tools. They are built with top-grade cells for faster charging and feature three LED indicators to monitor the remaining power at a glance. Having two batteries ensures one is always charged and ready to go.
CRAFTSMAN V20 Battery, 2.0 Ah, Lithium Ion
This is the genuine CRAFTSMAN V20 2.0Ah battery, designed specifically for the brand’s 20V MAX system. As an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) product, you are guaranteed perfect compatibility and performance with your Craftsman cordless mower and other V20 tools. It is engineered for heavy-duty applications, providing reliable power when you need it.
CRAFTSMAN uses premium grade high-energy cells in this battery, which contributes to both improved power output and an extended overall battery life. For those who prefer to stick with the official brand replacement, this battery ensures your equipment operates as intended.
Craftsman CMXGZAM1100743 12V 100 CCA Powersports
This Craftsman Powersports battery is a smaller, specialized option for certain lawn and garden equipment. With 100 CCA, it is suited for smaller engines or applications that require less cranking amperage. As a genuine Craftsman product, it is built to the brand’s specifications for reliability.
While not for large riding mowers, this battery could be a perfect fit for smaller Craftsman tools or utility vehicles. Its sealed AGM design makes it maintenance-free and safe for use in a variety of orientations. For specific model compatibility, it is recommended to verify your equipment’s requirements against this battery’s specifications.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Craftsman Lawn Mower Battery
When my mower wouldn’t start last season, I learned the hard way that not all batteries are created equal. Finding the right replacement is about more than just picking the one with the right physical fit. To get those reliable starts you’re counting on, you need to pay attention to a few key specs. Let’s walk through what I now consider before I buy.
First and foremost, you need to match the voltage. This is non-negotiable. Most Craftsman riding mowers use a 12V battery, similar to a car, while some smaller push mowers might use a different voltage. Check your old battery or your mower’s manual to be absolutely sure. Getting this wrong can seriously damage your mower’s electrical system.
Next up is the Amp Hour (Ah) rating. Think of this as the size of the fuel tank. A higher Ah rating means the battery can hold more energy, which translates to longer running time between charges. If you have a large yard or a mower with extra features like headlights or a powered clutch, aiming for a higher Ah battery is a smart move. It gives you that extra cushion so you’re not left with an unfinished lawn.
Then there’s the Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). This measures the battery’s ability to start an engine in cold weather. Even though you mow in warmer months, this rating is still a great indicator of the battery’s raw starting power. A higher CCA means a stronger, more forceful crank to get the engine turning over, which is exactly what you want for a dependable start every time.
The terminal type is a small but crucial detail. Look at the posts on your old battery. Are they the automotive-style side posts, or are they the top posts with threaded studs? You must get a new battery with the same terminal configuration, or you won’t be able to connect the cables. It’s a simple thing to verify that saves a major headache.
Finally, consider the battery technology. The standard is a flooded lead-acid battery, which requires occasional checking and topping off with distilled water. Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are a premium, maintenance-free option. They are sealed, won’t leak, are more resistant to vibration, and generally have a longer lifespan. For me, the extra cost for an AGM is worth it for the peace of mind and convenience. Keeping these factors in mind will help you find one of the 10 best Craftsman lawn mower batteries for reliable starts that fits your specific mower and your lawn care needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a Craftsman lawn mower battery typically last?
In my experience, you can expect a good quality lawn mower battery to last between three to five years. This lifespan depends heavily on a few factors. How well you maintain it, how often you use the mower, and the climate you live in all play a role. For instance, consistently letting the battery drain completely or exposing it to extreme heat can shorten its life significantly. Using a smart battery tender during the off-season is one of the best things you can do to maximize its years of service.
Can I use a car battery in my Craftsman riding mower?
Technically, if the voltage matches (e.g., both are 12V), it might physically work for a short time. However, I strongly advise against it. Car batteries are designed for a very short, high-power burst to start an engine and then be immediately recharged by the alternator. Lawn mower batteries are built for a different type of cycle and need to handle more vibration. Using a car battery can lead to poor performance, damage to your mower’s charging system, and a very short life for the battery itself. It’s always best to use a battery designed for outdoor power equipment.
What does “maintenance-free” mean for a mower battery?
A “maintenance-free” label means the battery is sealed and does not require you to add water. Traditional batteries might need periodic topping off with distilled water as the electrolyte evaporates over time. With a maintenance-free battery, that’s one less thing you have to worry about. Most modern AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries fall into this category. They’re fantastic because they’re less prone to leakage and corrosion, making them cleaner and easier to handle.
Why does my new battery keep dying when the mower isn’t in use?
If a new battery is consistently losing its charge while sitting, you likely have a parasitic drain. This means something electrical on the mower is drawing a small amount of power even when the key is off. It could be a faulty switch, a wiring issue, or even a built-in clock or controller on newer models. The first thing I would do is check all the connections for corrosion and ensure they are tight. If the connections are clean and the problem persists, it’s time to take the mower to a small engine repair shop. They can perform a draw test to find the source of the problem.
How can I tell if my lawn mower battery needs to be replaced?
The most obvious sign is that the engine turns over very slowly or doesn’t crank at all, and you just hear a clicking sound. Before you assume the battery is dead, make sure the battery terminals are clean and the cables are securely attached. If things look good there, you can use a multimeter to check the voltage. A fully charged 12V battery should read around 12.6 to 12.8 volts. If it’s reading below 12 volts, it likely needs a charge or is failing. If it can’t hold a charge after being on a charger, it’s definitely time for a replacement to ensure you have one of the reliable starts you need.