To choose the right charger, you need to know:
* Battery Type: Almost all modern Ford Focus cars use a standard 12V lead-acid battery (likely flooded, AGM, or possibly even a newer type like Enhanced Flooded Battery - EFB). Check your owner's manual to be absolutely certain.
* Battery Amperage (CCA or AH): This is printed on the battery itself. The CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) rating indicates the battery's ability to start the engine in cold weather. The AH (Amp-hour) rating indicates the battery's capacity. You need a charger capable of handling the amperage of your battery.
Once you know these details, you can select a charger. Look for a charger that:
* Is appropriate for lead-acid batteries: This should be clearly stated.
* Has the correct charging voltage (12V): This is standard for car batteries.
* Has an appropriate charging amperage: The charger's amperage should be less than or equal to the battery's amperage. Smaller amperage is safer for longer charging time and better for the battery, while higher amperage allows for faster charging (but must be suitable for your battery type). Many chargers have multiple amperage settings.
* Includes features you might want: Features like automatic voltage sensing, trickle charging (maintains charge over long periods), and spark protection are beneficial.
In short, don't look for a "Ford Focus battery charger". Look for a 12V lead-acid battery charger with appropriate amperage ratings for your specific battery. Check your owner's manual or the battery itself for the necessary specifications.
