Which battery does my car need? How to check

Replacing your car battery is easy when you know what to look for. The most reliable approach is to copy the specs of the battery you have now, which the manufacturer chose for your engine and electrical equipment.

1. Voltage (V)

Virtually all cars and vans use 12V batteries. Trucks run on 24V, but with two 12V batteries in series. Some classic cars use 6V.

2. Capacity (Ah)

This tells you how much energy the battery stores. You can fit the same capacity or slightly more: it won't harm the car and gives you extra margin in winter, as long as the battery fits in the tray.

3. Cold cranking amps (A, EN)

This is the current the battery delivers at -18 °C. Choose the same as or higher than the original; this matters most for diesel engines and in cold climates.

4. Dimensions

Length × width × height in millimetres. If the new battery is taller, it may touch the bonnet; if it is longer, it may not fit the bracket. Also check the type of hold-down at the base.

5. Polarity

With the terminals facing you, note which side the positive (+) is on. If you choose the opposite polarity, the cables won't reach. It is the most common mistake when buying a battery.

Does your car have Start-Stop?

If the engine switches off by itself at traffic lights, your car needs an EFB or AGM battery. Never fit a conventional one: it would fail within a few months. We explain why in AGM, EFB, GEL and lithium: the differences, and you can browse them all in Start-Stop batteries.

If the label is worn off

Look up the reference in the vehicle handbook or call us with the make, model and year of your car. We'll tell you which battery you need.

Once you have the specs, find your battery in car batteries.

Any questions? Call us on +34 627 45 96 87 and we'll give you the exact reference. All our prices include VAT and delivery to mainland Spain.