6 Best Batteries for John Deere D105 Lawn Mower 2025

This lithium powerhouse redefines what you expect from a small engine battery. Weighing just 3.3 lbs—1/5th the weight of traditional AGM units—it delivers an impressive 450 CCA and leverages LiFePO4 chemistry for over 2,500 charge cycles, making it a long-term investment for serious homeowners. The built-in Battery Management System (BMS) isn’t just marketing fluff—it actively prevents overcharge, deep discharge, and thermal stress, which are common killers of lead-acid batteries in seasonal storage. For anyone tired of dead batteries at spring startup, the smart sleep mode ensures it holds charge for up to 24 months, solving one of the most frustrating pain points in lawn care maintenance.

In real-world testing, the DKLU1 fired up a 3-year-old John Deere D105 in sub-40°F temps with zero hesitation, outperforming several AGM units that struggled. Its IP65-rated housing shrugged off wet grass clippings, rain exposure, and mower deck vibrations during extended mowing sessions. While its 3Ah capacity is modest compared to larger AGMs, it’s more than sufficient for reliable starts on sub-20HP engines. However, it’s not ideal for machines with onboard charging systems that exceed 15V—some older tractors may require a voltage regulator check to avoid BMS shutdowns.

Compared to the UPLUS U1 AGM, the DKLU1 trades raw capacity for ultra-lightweight design, longer cycle life, and maintenance-free operation. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s the clear choice for those prioritizing longevity, weight savings, and hassle-free performance over sheer amp-hours. If you mow weekly and hate battery replacements, this lithium upgrade offers superior value despite the higher upfront cost—it’s the only battery here that truly pays for itself over time.

The UPLUS U1 stands out as a high-performance AGM battery that blends durability with cold-weather reliability. With 360 CCA and 26Ah capacity, it delivers strong, consistent cranking power even after months in storage. What sets it apart is the use of 99.99% pure primary lead, which enhances charge acceptance and reduces internal corrosion—two critical factors in extending battery life beyond the typical 3-year mark. For riders in colder climates, its ability to start engines at -22°F is a game-changer, especially when compared to budget units that falter below freezing.

During testing on a John Deere D105 stored outdoors through winter, the UPLUS U1 started the mower on the second crank at 18°F—no warm-up, no jump-start. Its calcium-calcium plate technology minimizes water loss and self-discharge, making it ideal for seasonal use. The 7.68″ x 4.92″ x 6.93″ dimensions fit snugly in the D105 tray, and the vibration-resistant design handled bumpy terrain without issue. That said, it’s heavier than lithium options, and while it outperforms many AGMs, it still can’t match the cycle life of LiFePO4 batteries.

When stacked against the Caltric AGM, the UPLUS offers superior cold-cranking performance and longer expected lifespan thanks to higher-grade materials. It’s best suited for users who want reliable, set-and-forget power without stepping into lithium pricing. While it lacks the futuristic features of lithium, it delivers best-in-class AGM performance—a durable, trustworthy workhorse that outshines most in its category.

The Caltric AGM battery is a no-frills, value-driven replacement that gets the job done without extras. Designed specifically for John Deere models like the D105, it offers solid compatibility with OEM part numbers including TY23017 and TY25878, ensuring a correct fit right out of the box. It delivers standard U1 specs—12V, ~200 CCA, AGM sealed design—making it ideal for homeowners who just need a reliable start and don’t want to overpay for features they won’t use. The maintenance-free, spill-proof construction eliminates the hassle of checking water levels, a common annoyance with older battery types.

In real-world use, the Caltric started a 2018 D105 reliably through spring and summer, though it showed signs of strain after two months of storage without a maintainer. It performed adequately in moderate temperatures but required a boost after sitting for 10 weeks. The AGM design handles vibration well, and the terminal alignment matches the D105’s harness perfectly. However, it lacks the cold-cranking punch of higher-CCA models and doesn’t include detailed charging guidance, which could lead to premature failure if paired with an incompatible charger.

Compared to the Marxon U1, the Caltric offers better brand-specific targeting for John Deere owners, but with similar performance. It’s not the most powerful or longest-lasting, but for someone replacing a dead battery on a lightly used mower, it’s a dependable, cost-effective solution. While it doesn’t wow with specs, it delivers honest performance for the price—making it a smart pick for budget-conscious users who prioritize fit and function.

The Marxon U1 is a budget-savvy performer that punches above its price point with 320 CCA and solid build quality. It’s engineered to replace standard U1 batteries in popular brands like John Deere, Toro, and Cub Cadet, and our test unit fired up a D105 with authority even after a week of inactivity. The shockproof casing stood up to deck vibrations and minor impacts during transport, while the patented alloy grid reduced corrosion in humid conditions—two common failure points in cheaper batteries. For users who mow weekly and store their mower in a garage, it offers dependable, no-nonsense starting power.

In performance testing, the Marxon delivered consistent cranks for over 15 starts in a row with no voltage drop, indicating strong internal resistance management. Its 320 CCA is a sweet spot—enough for reliable ignition on 15–18HP engines without the bulk of higher-capacity units. The 15-month warranty and US-based support add peace of mind, especially when compared to no-name imports. However, it’s not designed for extreme cold, and users in northern climates reported slower cranking below 30°F.

Versus the Lawn Garden 200CCA model, the Marxon offers nearly 60% more starting power in a similar footprint, making it a far better match for modern mowers. It’s not the lightest or most advanced, but for DIYers who want strong cranking amps at a rock-bottom price, it’s hard to beat. If you’re upgrading from a weak old battery and don’t want to spend $80+, this AGM delivers real value—more power, same price.

Don’t let the low price fool you—the Lawn Garden U1 is the lightest-duty option in this lineup, built for occasional use on small mowers and garden tractors. With 200 CCA and 14.99 lbs weight, it’s physically compact and easy to install, fitting neatly in the D105 battery tray. It uses standard AGM technology with a maintenance-free, spill-proof design, making it safe for indoor storage and beginner-friendly handling. For someone with a lightweight riding mower used only a few times a month, it provides adequate starting power without breaking the bank.

In testing, it started a well-maintained D105 on the first try in 50°F+ weather, but struggled after two weeks of storage without charging. It recovered after a full charge but showed signs of voltage sag during repeated cranking. The cold cranking performance is limited, and it’s best avoided in regions with cold springs or fall mowing. While it’s labeled compatible with major brands, the lack of detailed OEM cross-references makes verification trickier than with Caltric or UPLUS.

Compared to the Mighty Max ML-U1, it’s nearly identical in specs but slightly lighter and cheaper. It’s not built for heavy use or long storage, but for light-duty, fair-weather mowing, it gets the job done. If you’re maintaining a small yard and want a simple, affordable battery, this is a functional pick—just don’t expect cold-weather reliability or long-term durability.

The Mighty Max ML-U1 is a no-surprises, dependable battery that delivers baseline performance for standard riding mowers like the John Deere D105. With 200 CCA and 12V AGM construction, it matches OEM specs for many entry-level tractors, offering reliable starts in moderate conditions. Its spill-proof, vibration-resistant design handles typical lawn terrain without issue, and the ability to mount in any orientation adds flexibility during installation. For users who want a straightforward replacement without bells and whistles, it’s a solid, widely trusted option.

In real-world use, the ML-U1 started the D105 consistently over a 6-week test period, though it required a recharge after three weeks of inactivity. It performed well in 60°F+ weather but slowed noticeably in cooler conditions. The 7-inch height fits most enclosures, though tight spaces may require minor adjustments. It lacks advanced features like smart charging or extreme cold protection, and the one-year warranty is shorter than competitors offering 15+ months.

When compared to the Lawn Garden 200CCA, the Mighty Max feels more robust, with better terminal durability and slightly stronger casing. It’s not the most powerful or longest-lasting, but for standard maintenance mowing, it’s a reliable, proven choice. If you’re replacing a dead battery and want a known quantity that won’t fail early, this is the safest standard-fit option—basic, but trustworthy.