🔋 Battery Cross Reference Tool

Understanding Battery Codes

Car batteries use different coding systems around the world. This tool helps you find equivalent batteries across different standards.

Battery Code Systems Explained

• DIN (Deutsche Industrie Norm): European standard, 3-digit codes like 063, 096, 110. Most common in UK and Europe.
• BCI (Battery Council International): North American standard using group numbers like 24F, 35, 51R.
• JIS (Japanese Industrial Standard): Japanese system using codes like 55B24L, 75D23L.
• UK Codes: Traditional UK numbering like 063, 075, often similar to DIN.
• ETN (European Type Number): 9-digit code providing detailed specifications.

Common UK/European Battery Sizes

DIN Code	Ah Rating	CCA	Typical Vehicles
063	44Ah	390A	Small cars (Fiesta, Corsa, Polo)
075	60Ah	540A	Medium cars (Focus, Astra, Golf)
096	70Ah	640A	Larger cars (Mondeo, Insignia, Passat)
019	95Ah	800A	Large cars & 4x4s (X5, Range Rover)
110	80Ah	700A	Performance cars & diesel
027	110Ah	920A	Large SUVs, vans, trucks

What Do Battery Specifications Mean?

• Ah (Amp Hours): Battery capacity - how much energy it can store. Higher = more reserve capacity.
• CCA (Cold Cranking Amps): Starting power at -18°C (0°F). Critical for cold weather starting.
• Dimensions: Length × Width × Height in mm. Must fit your battery tray.
• Terminal Type: Post position (0 = positive right, 1 = positive left) and size.
• RC (Reserve Capacity): How long battery can run accessories if alternator fails (in minutes).

Popular Battery Equivalents

DIN	BCI Group	Ah	CCA	Dimensions (LxWxH mm)
063	—	44	390	207×175×190
075	55/H5	60	540	242×175×190
096	58/H6	70	640	242×175×190
100	H7	100	850	315×175×190
110	—	80	700	315×175×190
019	H8	95	800	353×175×190

How to Choose the Right Battery

• Check vehicle handbook: Always start with manufacturer recommendations
• Match or exceed Ah rating: Can go higher for more capacity, never lower
• Match or exceed CCA: Especially important for diesel engines and cold climates
• Verify dimensions: Must physically fit in your battery tray
• Check terminal position: Positive terminal must be on correct side (0 or 1)
• Consider upgrade: Higher spec battery = better performance and longevity

Battery Technology Types

• Conventional Lead-Acid: Traditional flooded batteries, require periodic water top-up, lowest cost
• Maintenance-Free (MF): Sealed, no water needed, most common modern type
• Calcium/Silver: Enhanced plates reduce water loss, better performance
• EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery): Improved cycling for start-stop vehicles
• AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): Premium technology, best for start-stop and high-power accessories
• Gel: Sealed gel electrolyte, vibration resistant, good for boats/motorcycles

Start-Stop Battery Requirements

Modern cars with start-stop systems require special batteries:

• EFB Batteries: Minimum requirement for basic start-stop systems
• AGM Batteries: Required for advanced start-stop with regenerative braking
• DON'T downgrade: Never fit a conventional battery to a start-stop vehicle
• Battery registration: Some vehicles need new battery coded to ECU

Battery Installation Tips

• Disconnect negative terminal first, reconnect it last
• Clean battery tray and hold-down clamp
• Apply anti-corrosion spray to terminals
• Ensure secure mounting - loose batteries fail quickly
• Don't overtighten terminals - can crack battery posts
• Check alternator charging voltage (13.5-14.5V with engine running)

Common Battery Problems

• Won't hold charge: Internal cell failure, needs replacement
• Slow cranking: Low CCA, cold weather, or charging system issue
• Rapid self-discharge: Parasitic drain from accessories/alarm
• Swollen case: Overcharging from faulty alternator - check charging system
• Corroded terminals: Clean regularly, causes voltage drop and poor starting

Battery Life & Maintenance

• Average lifespan: 3-5 years (UK climate)
• Short journeys reduce battery life significantly
• Use a smart charger for vehicles stored long-term
• Hot weather is harder on batteries than cold
• Check battery health annually after 3 years
• Load test battery if experiencing starting issues