[jdmccright]

If you want maintenance-free, then get the sealed type from a good brand: Sears Die Hard, Interstate, even Wal-Mart EverStart have good reps. Good warranties are also important as you already know...the longer the better, especially the free replacement period.

I personally think I can keep tabs on the general maintenance since I do it myself, so I opt for the type with caps. They are generally cheaper, and the warranties almost as good as the sealed types. All you need for maintenance is a turkey baster, a jug of distilled water, and maybe a battery checker (to test the electrolyte for specific gravity).

So if you're a do-it-yourselfer, cap types are easy enough. But for the hands-off driver, opt for a maintenance free battery.

Good luck!