2020 GMC Acadia Battery Size & Replacement Guide

Quick answer

• BCI Group Size: H6 / Group 48
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): 760 CCA
• Reserve Capacity (RC): 120 minutes
• Battery Type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) required
• Terminal Layout: Top Post, Right-hand positive
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 10.9 x 6.9 x 7.5 inches

Replacement battery options

• Interstate: MTX-48/H6
• ACDelco: 48AGM
• Optima: DH6 YELLOWTOP
• DieHard: Platinum AGM Battery, Group Size H6, 760 CCA
• Odyssey: Performance Series AGM Battery ODP-AGM48 H6 L3

AGM vs flooded — which does this vehicle need?

The 2020 GMC Acadia comes equipped with an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery from the factory. This is not an optional upgrade; it's a requirement. The Acadia's charging system is designed specifically for AGM batteries, and its sophisticated electronics and start-stop technology demand the stable power and deep-cycle capability that an AGM battery provides. A traditional flooded lead-acid battery will not be able to handle the electrical load and will have a very short service life in this vehicle.

Post-installation relearn / reset procedure

After replacing the battery in your 2020 GMC Acadia, a battery relearn procedure is recommended to ensure the charging system and vehicle electronics operate correctly. The vehicle's Body Control Module (BCM) monitors the battery's state of charge and age to optimize charging. Failure to perform the relearn procedure can lead to overcharging or undercharging the new battery, which can shorten its lifespan. While some sources suggest the system will relearn on its own over time, the proper procedure requires a scan tool. A professional technician will connect a scan tool to the OBD-II port and perform the "Battery Sensor Module Reset" or a similar function in the BCM menu. Additionally, you may need to reset the auto-up feature for the power windows. To do this, press and hold the down switch for each window until it is fully open, then press and hold the up switch until the window is fully closed and continue holding for 2-3 seconds.

Signs of a failing battery

• Slow engine crank: The engine turns over more slowly than usual when you try to start it.
• Warning lights: A battery or charging system warning light may illuminate on the dashboard.
• Dim lights and electrical issues: You may notice your headlights and interior lights are dimmer than usual, or other electrical accessories may malfunction.
• Swollen battery case: If the battery case appears bloated or swollen, it's a sign of internal damage and the battery should be replaced immediately.
• Corrosion on terminals: White, blue, or green powdery corrosion on the battery terminals can indicate a leak or outgassing.

Common battery issues for this generation

The 2017-present generation of the GMC Acadia is generally reliable, but like any modern vehicle, it is susceptible to battery issues. The most common "issue" is the shortened battery life that results from installing the wrong type of battery (a flooded battery instead of an AGM). The second most common issue is a parasitic draw. With the number of modules and computers in the Acadia, a malfunction in one of them can cause a small but constant drain on the battery, even when the vehicle is off. If you find your battery is repeatedly drained, a technician will need to perform a parasitic draw test to identify the faulty component.

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