Good Morning-

Last week my battery died (1998 S70 T5M, original battery). I ended up buying the Interstate battery (thanks to everyone who gave me input). Car starts fine now.

Here is my question, with regard to cold cranking amps. The Interstate dealer said my need 520 CCAs, sold me their battery with 590 CCA (of course this is better). Pep Boys said my car needed 520 CCA. Sears webpage says my car needs 520 CCA. Les Schwab Tire says my car needs 520 CCA.

The dealership parts department (Northwest Volvo) says my car (the T5) actually needs 600 CCA, and the normally aspirated engine only needs 520 CCA. I look at the old battery I pulled out (I didn't recycle yet), and lo and behold it claims 600 CCA.

Is 600 CCA what I need? Now, relatively, it doesn't get too cold around here, so maybe a lower CCA is justified, but what has everyone else bought for their T5 or 850 turbo? Seen any short life on a battery less than 600 CCA? Should I try to return the Interstate and buy the volvo battery ($75 versus $117)?

Joe