Battery Hold-Downs

Does your battery shift in hard corners or over bumps? A battery hold-down keeps the battery secured in its tray so it doesn't move and strain the cables and terminals. This category is for you if you want to replace a worn original hold-down or fit a smaller, lighter battery in your project.

What a battery hold-down does

A loose battery can move under acceleration, braking and cornering, which can strain the terminals, cables and battery case. The hold-down clamps the battery against the tray or bracket so it stays in place. In this category you will find, for example, billet hold-downs from Torque Solution, lightweight hold-downs and mounting kits from GrimmSpeed and hold-downs from Cusco, several of them in colours such as black, red or blue. Odyssey Battery and Perrin Performance are also among the brands here.

How to choose the right hold-down

• Car model and year: The hold-downs are typically made for specific models, e.g. Subaru WRX/STI, Honda Civic or Ford Focus RS. Check the model year for the specific part number.
• Battery dimensions: A hold-down for a small battery will not necessarily fit the original battery. If you are switching to a smaller battery, you will find it under car batteries.
• Hold-down or complete kit: Some products include a tray or bracket, while others are just the hold-down itself.
• Material and weight: Billet and lightweight versions can save weight, but fitment and fastening determine whether the battery is held securely.

Installation and inspection

Disconnect the negative terminal first and reconnect it last when you replace the hold-down. Tighten the hold-down so the battery cannot move, but without deforming the battery case. Check regularly that the bolts are tight and that the terminals are clear of any metal parts. You will find more parts for the power supply under batteries and battery management.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a hold-down for a small battery with my original battery?

That depends on the battery dimensions and the design of the hold-down. Hold-downs and trays for small batteries are typically intended for batteries that are smaller than the original, so measure your battery and compare it with the product specifications before you buy.

Can an aftermarket hold-down cause problems at the vehicle inspection?

The inspection typically checks that the battery is properly secured. Whether a specific hold-down is accepted depends on the product, installation and car, so check the information for the specific part number and install it according to the instructions.

Why must the hold-down not be able to touch the battery terminals?

If the positive terminal comes into contact with a metal hold-down or the body, it can cause a short circuit, sparks and, in the worst case, a fire. After installation, check that the hold-down clears the terminals, and preferably use terminal covers.