[longford]

Lately, I have been having startup problems with my accent. Have an exide ( OEM ?? ) red top one.

Problem description
When I start the car in the parking lot in the morning and evening, no problem. Cold start works fine.
When I switch off the car during a ride, like at a signal, the car sometimes takes quite a few groaning twists to start. Kinda like those ole Amby starting noises that we grew up with. Warm startup is becoming quite an issue.

Story so far.
Had checked the battery some months ago, when I got a startup problem and the exide guys told me the structure is weak and gravity is low. My mechanic tightened the terminal connections and it seemed fine. I said " ok. till next times. Anyway when the car runs, battery charges plus my music runs fine and the AC also" That was a few months ago.

Today, I went to the Hyundai dealership for a complete checkup before the long drive on the 18th to Rajasthan. With 3500 kms ahead, no pint in taking chances.
The service engineer tells me battery is dead and asks me if he should put in a new exide. I said "no.Hold your horses. let me get it checked with an exide-walla and then let you know."

after reading some more posts on TBHP, i am beginning to realize the following:
1. The problem may not just be battery, could be the starter also.
2. Battery lasts 3-4 years. Mine is around 8 years (assuming OEM??) So definitely replace
3. Go for Amaron/Panasonic/Bosch but not exide.

Would be wonderful what my fellow bhp-ians think and advise me on next steps.