Clarios, formerly Johnson Controls Power Solutions, produces AutoCraft batteries. These batteries are primarily sold through Advance Auto Parts stores and are available for a wide range of vehicles, from cars and trucks to boats and RVs. Different battery types are offered within the AutoCraft brand, including conventional flooded lead-acid, absorbed glass mat (AGM), and enhanced flooded batteries, each designed to meet specific vehicle requirements.
Knowing the source of a product like a car battery allows consumers to research the manufacturer’s reputation, quality control processes, and warranty information. This understanding can contribute to informed purchasing decisions based on factors such as performance, reliability, and longevity. The origin of a brand can also provide insight into its market positioning and target demographics. Historically, Johnson Controls has held a significant role in battery manufacturing, supplying a substantial portion of the automotive market. This heritage, coupled with Advance Auto Parts’ extensive distribution network, makes AutoCraft a readily accessible brand for many consumers.
This foundation provides a solid understanding for exploring further details about AutoCraft batteries, including specific product lines, warranties, performance comparisons, and proper maintenance procedures. Further exploration of these topics will equip consumers with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions regarding their vehicle battery needs.
1. Clarios (formerly Johnson Controls)
Clarios, formerly a division of Johnson Controls known as Johnson Controls Power Solutions, holds a crucial role in the production of AutoCraft batteries. This relationship signifies more than just a simple manufacturing arrangement; it speaks to the heritage, technology, and market presence behind the AutoCraft brand. Johnson Controls, and now Clarios, have a long-standing history in the battery industry, supplying original equipment and aftermarket batteries to a significant portion of the automotive market. This experience translates to established manufacturing processes, quality control measures, and technological expertise that influence the final AutoCraft product. For example, Clarios’s research and development efforts in advanced battery technologies, such as Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries, directly impact the availability and performance of AGM AutoCraft batteries.
Understanding this connection provides valuable context for consumers. It allows for an assessment of the underlying quality and reliability potentially associated with the AutoCraft brand due to its lineage. This knowledge extends beyond simply knowing the manufacturer’s name; it offers insight into the potential performance characteristics, durability, and technological advancements incorporated into the batteries. Consider a consumer choosing between different battery brands. Recognizing Clarios as the manufacturer behind AutoCraft allows them to leverage Clarios’s reputation and history of innovation when making their decision. This connection also offers a pathway for consumers to access more detailed information about the battery technology used in AutoCraft products, drawing on Clarios’s technical resources and expertise.
In summary, recognizing Clarios as the manufacturer behind AutoCraft batteries provides valuable insight into the brand’s heritage, technological underpinnings, and potential performance characteristics. This understanding empowers consumers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions based on factors beyond just price and readily available marketing information. It allows them to tap into the broader context of Clarios’s industry experience and innovation, ultimately leading to a more confident and informed battery purchase.
2. Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process employed by Clarios for AutoCraft batteries directly influences the final product’s quality, performance, and longevity. While specific proprietary details may not be publicly available, general industry practices and Clarios’s known technological investments provide insights. Clarios utilizes advanced manufacturing techniques in the production of its various battery types, including flooded lead-acid, enhanced flooded, and AGM. These processes involve precise grid casting, paste mixing and application, plate curing, cell assembly, and final battery formation. Automated processes and quality control measures throughout these stages contribute to consistent product performance and minimize defects. For instance, Clarios’s expertise in grid design and manufacturing directly affects a battery’s cranking power and lifespan. Their advancements in paste formulations enhance performance in extreme temperatures.
Understanding the connection between the manufacturing process and the finished product’s characteristics allows for more informed consumer choices. A company known for its investment in advanced manufacturing technologies, like Clarios, offers a degree of assurance regarding product quality and consistency. Consider a consumer seeking a reliable battery for a vehicle operating in extreme cold. Knowledge of Clarios’s advanced paste formulations, a direct result of their manufacturing process, might sway their decision towards an AutoCraft battery. Additionally, understanding the emphasis on quality control during manufacturing can instill confidence in the battery’s long-term performance and reliability.
In conclusion, the manufacturing process, while often unseen by the consumer, plays a vital role in the final quality and performance of AutoCraft batteries. Clarios’s investments in advanced manufacturing technologies and stringent quality control measures significantly contribute to the product’s attributes. This understanding provides consumers with valuable context for their purchasing decisions, allowing them to assess the potential benefits derived from the manufacturer’s commitment to quality and technological advancements.
3. Advance Auto Parts (retailer)
Advance Auto Parts plays a crucial role in the AutoCraft battery landscape, serving as the primary retailer and, consequently, the main point of contact for consumers. This relationship significantly influences consumer perception of the brand and access to the product. Understanding this connection provides essential context for a complete picture of “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries.”
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Exclusive Retailer:
Advance Auto Parts holds exclusive rights to sell AutoCraft batteries. This exclusivity shapes brand identity and market positioning, creating a strong association between retailer and product. It means consumers seeking AutoCraft batteries must interact with Advance Auto Parts, either online or in-store. This exclusivity also affects pricing strategies, marketing campaigns, and overall brand perception.
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Accessibility and Distribution:
The extensive network of Advance Auto Parts retail locations across North America ensures widespread availability of AutoCraft batteries. This broad distribution network translates to convenient access for consumers. Whether in urban centers or rural areas, the likelihood of finding an AutoCraft battery nearby is significantly higher due to the retailer’s reach. This accessibility influences consumer choice, particularly in situations requiring immediate battery replacement.
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Warranty and Customer Service:
Advance Auto Parts manages warranty claims and customer service related to AutoCraft batteries. This direct interaction with consumers regarding warranty issues and technical support significantly shapes their experience with the brand. The efficiency and effectiveness of Advance Auto Parts’ warranty process directly affect customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. This role reinforces the connection between retailer and manufacturer in the consumer’s mind.
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Marketing and Brand Perception:
Advance Auto Parts’ marketing efforts, including promotions and in-store placement, directly influence consumer perception of the AutoCraft brand. How the retailer presents and positions the product influences purchasing decisions. Prominent displays, special offers, and bundled deals can impact consumer choices. The retailer’s reputation also contributes to the perceived value and reliability of the AutoCraft brand.
In essence, Advance Auto Parts’ role as the exclusive retailer significantly shapes the AutoCraft brand experience. From accessibility and warranty service to marketing and brand perception, the retailer plays a pivotal role in connecting the manufacturer, Clarios, with the end consumer. This understanding completes the picture of “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries,” demonstrating that it goes beyond just the production process; it encompasses the entire supply chain and retail experience.
4. Variety of Battery Types
The range of battery types offered under the AutoCraft brand reflects both the manufacturing capabilities of Clarios and the diverse needs of the automotive market served by Advance Auto Parts. Understanding the variety available provides insight into the collaboration between manufacturer and retailer and how they address specific vehicle and consumer requirements. This exploration clarifies the connection between product diversity and the entities involved in bringing AutoCraft batteries to market.
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Flooded Lead-Acid Batteries:
The traditional flooded lead-acid battery remains a cornerstone of the automotive market due to its affordability and established technology. Clarios’s production of this type for the AutoCraft brand caters to a broad consumer base seeking a cost-effective solution. These batteries are commonly found in older vehicles or those with basic power demands. Their availability within the AutoCraft lineup demonstrates a commitment to serving a wide range of vehicle applications.
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Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB):
Enhanced flooded batteries represent a step up from traditional flooded batteries, offering improved performance and durability, particularly for vehicles with start-stop technology. Clarios’s inclusion of EFBs in the AutoCraft portfolio highlights their ability to adapt to evolving automotive technologies. These batteries address the increasing demands of modern vehicles equipped with fuel-saving features, showcasing a responsiveness to market trends.
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Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Batteries:
AGM batteries represent a premium option within the AutoCraft brand, providing superior performance and durability for vehicles with high power demands and advanced features. Clarios’s manufacturing expertise in AGM technology allows them to offer this high-performance option within the AutoCraft lineup. These batteries cater to vehicles with demanding electrical systems, demonstrating a capacity to address the needs of a more specialized segment of the market.
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Specialized Batteries:
Beyond standard automotive batteries, AutoCraft also includes specialized batteries for marine, powersport, and other applications. This diversified product line highlights Clarios’s manufacturing versatility and Advance Auto Parts’ market reach beyond the typical automotive consumer. These specialized batteries demonstrate an ability to cater to niche markets, showcasing a broader approach to serving various power storage needs.
The variety of battery types available under the AutoCraft brand underscores the collaborative relationship between Clarios, the manufacturer, and Advance Auto Parts, the retailer. This diverse product portfolio reflects a combined effort to address the wide-ranging needs of the automotive market and beyond, from budget-conscious consumers to those requiring high-performance solutions. It ultimately demonstrates a strategic approach to serving diverse vehicle applications and market segments.
5. Warranty Information
Warranty information for AutoCraft batteries illustrates the interplay between the manufacturer, Clarios, and the retailer, Advance Auto Parts. While Clarios establishes the fundamental warranty terms based on battery type and construction, Advance Auto Parts manages the warranty fulfillment process. This division of responsibility affects the customer experience and provides insight into the practical implications of understanding “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries.” For example, the free replacement period, typically handled directly through Advance Auto Parts, leverages the retailer’s extensive network for convenient warranty service. However, pro-rated periods often involve interactions with Clarios’s warranty systems, highlighting the manufacturer’s role in backing the product’s long-term performance. This distinction clarifies the roles each entity plays in supporting the product lifecycle.
The importance of warranty information as a component of understanding “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries” lies in its reflection of the shared responsibility between manufacturer and retailer. A robust warranty program, facilitated by both Clarios and Advance Auto Parts, can influence consumer confidence in the product. For instance, a longer free replacement period offered by Advance Auto Parts might sway a consumer toward an AutoCraft battery over a competitor. Similarly, clear and accessible warranty information provided by both entities contributes to a positive customer experience. A streamlined claims process handled efficiently by Advance Auto Parts, backed by Clarios’s warranty policies, reinforces the value proposition of the AutoCraft brand. This collaborative approach to warranty service ultimately benefits the consumer.
In summary, warranty information for AutoCraft batteries provides a practical example of the interconnectedness between Clarios, the manufacturer, and Advance Auto Parts, the retailer. Understanding this relationship empowers consumers to navigate warranty claims efficiently and appreciate the shared commitment to product support. It reinforces the idea that “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries” encompasses not only the production process but also the after-sales support structure, significantly impacting the overall ownership experience. This understanding allows consumers to make informed decisions based on not just the initial purchase price but also the long-term value proposition, including warranty coverage and accessibility.
6. Market Positioning
Market positioning for AutoCraft batteries demonstrates a strategic alignment between Clarios, the manufacturer, and Advance Auto Parts, the retailer. Understanding this positioning provides crucial context for “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries,” as it reveals the target consumer, brand perception, and competitive landscape. This exploration delves into the factors influencing AutoCraft’s market placement and how this placement reflects the collaborative efforts of manufacturer and retailer.
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Value Segment:
AutoCraft batteries primarily occupy the value segment of the automotive battery market. This positioning reflects a strategic decision to target budget-conscious consumers seeking reliable performance at a competitive price. This strategy leverages Clarios’s manufacturing scale and Advance Auto Parts’ extensive distribution network to offer affordability and accessibility. For example, offering various battery lines within the AutoCraft brand, from basic flooded lead-acid to more advanced EFB and AGM options, allows them to cater to a broader range within the value segment, accommodating different vehicle needs and budgets.
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Private Label Brand:
As a private label brand exclusive to Advance Auto Parts, AutoCraft benefits from the retailer’s established market presence and customer base. This strategy allows Clarios to leverage Advance Auto Parts’ marketing and distribution channels while maintaining control over manufacturing and product development. This arrangement creates a symbiotic relationship where the retailer benefits from a captive brand, and the manufacturer gains access to a wide distribution network. For instance, Advance Auto Parts can promote AutoCraft batteries through store circulars, online promotions, and in-store displays, directly influencing purchasing decisions within their established customer base.
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Competition:
AutoCraft batteries compete with both national brands and other private label batteries within the value segment. This competitive landscape necessitates a strategic balance between price, performance, and perceived value. Clarios’s manufacturing expertise and Advance Auto Parts’ retail presence contribute to this balance. For example, offering competitive warranties and leveraging Clarios’s technological advancements in battery construction allows AutoCraft to differentiate itself within the crowded value segment.
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Brand Perception:
Consumer perception of AutoCraft is influenced by both the product’s performance and Advance Auto Parts’ reputation. This interconnectedness highlights the importance of the retailer’s role in shaping brand image. Positive customer service experiences at Advance Auto Parts can positively influence perceptions of the AutoCraft brand, reinforcing the value proposition. Conversely, negative experiences can negatively impact brand perception. This interdependence underscores the importance of both product quality and retail service in establishing a strong brand image.
In conclusion, AutoCraft’s market positioning as a value-oriented private label brand reflects a strategic collaboration between Clarios and Advance Auto Parts. This positioning leverages the strengths of both entities, from manufacturing expertise and scale to retail presence and customer access. Understanding this market placement provides valuable context for “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries,” demonstrating that it goes beyond simply identifying the manufacturer; it encompasses a strategic partnership designed to address a specific segment of the automotive battery market.
Frequently Asked Questions about AutoCraft Batteries
This section addresses common inquiries regarding AutoCraft batteries, providing concise and informative responses to clarify potential uncertainties.
Question 1: Who specifically manufactures AutoCraft batteries?
Clarios, formerly known as Johnson Controls Power Solutions, manufactures AutoCraft batteries.
Question 2: Where are AutoCraft batteries primarily sold?
AutoCraft batteries are exclusively sold through Advance Auto Parts stores and their online platform.
Question 3: What types of AutoCraft batteries are available?
AutoCraft offers a range of battery types, including conventional flooded lead-acid, enhanced flooded batteries (EFB), absorbent glass mat (AGM), and specialized batteries for marine and powersport applications.
Question 4: How does one determine the correct AutoCraft battery for a specific vehicle?
Advance Auto Parts provides online tools and in-store assistance to identify the appropriate AutoCraft battery based on year, make, and model of the vehicle.
Question 5: What warranty coverage is provided for AutoCraft batteries?
Warranty coverage for AutoCraft batteries varies depending on the specific battery type. Details are available on the Advance Auto Parts website and in-store. Advance Auto Parts manages warranty claims.
Question 6: Are AutoCraft batteries considered a reliable choice?
AutoCraft batteries, manufactured by Clarios, a company with a long history in the battery industry, are generally considered a reliable option, particularly within the value segment of the market. Reliability is further supported by Advance Auto Parts’ warranty and customer service infrastructure.
Understanding the manufacturer, retail channels, available battery types, and warranty information provides a comprehensive overview of AutoCraft batteries. This information empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on their specific vehicle needs and budget.
For further inquiries or specific technical details, consulting the Advance Auto Parts website or visiting a local store is recommended.
Tips for Selecting and Maintaining an AutoCraft Battery
Informed decisions regarding battery selection and maintenance contribute significantly to vehicle reliability and longevity. The following tips offer guidance based on understanding the manufacturer, available battery types, and retailer support.
Tip 1: Determine the Correct Battery Type: Different vehicles require specific battery types. Consulting the vehicle owner’s manual or using online resources provided by Advance Auto Parts ensures selecting the correct AutoCraft battery, whether flooded lead-acid, enhanced flooded, or AGM.
Tip 2: Consider Vehicle Usage: Driving habits and climate conditions influence battery performance and lifespan. Vehicles with start-stop technology or operating in extreme temperatures benefit from enhanced flooded or AGM batteries due to their increased durability and performance in demanding conditions.
Tip 3: Understand Warranty Coverage: AutoCraft batteries offer varying warranty periods depending on the type. Reviewing the specific warranty details available through Advance Auto Parts clarifies expectations and ensures awareness of coverage terms and conditions.
Tip 4: Proper Installation is Crucial: Correct installation ensures optimal battery performance and safety. Seeking professional installation at Advance Auto Parts or carefully following manufacturer instructions prevents potential issues and ensures proper connection and securement.
Tip 5: Regular Battery Testing: Periodic battery testing helps identify potential issues before they escalate. Advance Auto Parts offers free battery testing services, providing valuable insights into battery health and allowing for proactive replacement if necessary. This preventative measure avoids unexpected starting failures.
Tip 6: Maintain Proper Charging: Ensuring a properly functioning vehicle charging system contributes significantly to battery lifespan. Addressing charging system issues promptly prevents premature battery failure and maintains optimal performance. A healthy charging system contributes to consistent and reliable battery operation.
Tip 7: Clean Battery Terminals: Corrosion on battery terminals can impede electrical flow and lead to starting problems. Regularly cleaning terminals with a wire brush and applying a protective coating enhances conductivity and prolongs battery life.
By understanding these tips and applying them diligently, vehicle owners contribute to reliable operation and maximize the lifespan of their AutoCraft battery. This proactive approach minimizes potential disruptions and contributes to overall vehicle dependability.
This information prepares readers for the concluding remarks regarding AutoCraft batteries, summarizing key takeaways and reinforcing the importance of informed battery selection and maintenance.
Conclusion
Exploration of the question “who manufactures AutoCraft batteries” reveals a strategic partnership between Clarios (formerly Johnson Controls Power Solutions) and Advance Auto Parts. Clarios’s manufacturing expertise and technological advancements combine with Advance Auto Parts’ extensive retail network and customer service infrastructure to deliver a value-oriented battery solution. Understanding this collaborative relationship provides valuable context for consumers, enabling informed decisions based on factors beyond simply brand recognition. The variety of AutoCraft battery types, warranty coverage provided through Advance Auto Parts, and the brand’s overall market positioning reflect this strategic alignment.
Informed battery selection and proactive maintenance practices contribute significantly to vehicle reliability and longevity. Understanding the manufacturer, retailer, available battery types, and warranty information empowers consumers to choose the appropriate AutoCraft battery and maintain it effectively. This knowledge translates to dependable vehicle operation and potentially reduces long-term costs associated with premature battery failure. Ultimately, informed consumers benefit from a deeper understanding of the products they rely on, promoting confident decision-making and contributing to a more positive ownership experience.
