Car battery sizes table according to DIN standards: dimensions, capacity and polarity 2025
Choosing the right car battery often fails not because of the price or the brand, but because of the fundamental question: which casing will actually fit into my vehicle's battery tray? The European standard EN 50342, derived from the familiar German DIN 72311, defines precise casing codes for this purpose – but without a complete car battery sizes table, the search remains tedious. This page provides the complete overview of all common EU box standards, from the compact LBN0 for small Japanese cars to the massive L6 for upper-class diesels. Each row contains real dimensions in millimetres, the usual capacity range in ampere-hours (Ah), the cold cranking current (CCA) according to the EN standard in amperes, the approximate weight and the polarity – exactly the data you need for a precisely fitting decision. In addition, we explain the system behind the codes, give concrete calculation examples for different vehicle classes and highlight the technological differences between EFB, AGM and modern LiFePO4 batteries. As a specialised supplier of battery technology, Electronicx GmbH provides precise knowledge for your purchasing decision.
The complete DIN standard table (EN 50342 / DIN 72311) for car batteries
The following table lists all relevant casing groups for starter batteries in passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. The dimensions follow the tolerances of EN 50342. The height specification distinguishes between the box height (lower edge of the casing to the lid without terminals) and the maximum installation height (overall, usually including terminal cover). The capacity and CCA values are typical ranges that are achieved within the respective casing size through different plate designs and separator technologies. Before purchasing, in addition to the dimensions, be sure to check the polarity side (view from above onto the terminals: R = positive terminal on the right, L = positive terminal on the left) as well as the required cold cranking current for your engine. A diesel requires a significantly higher CCA than a petrol engine of the same displacement.
| EU box / DIN code | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height box (mm) | Height max. (mm) | Capacity (Ah) | CCA EN (A) | Weight (kg) | Polarity (view from above) | Typical vehicle application |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LBN0 (LN0) | 175 | 127 | 202 | 222 | 35–40 | 300–360 | 8,5–10,5 | R | Smart Fortwo (451), Toyota Yaris (XP10), Daihatsu Cuore |
| LBN1 (LN1) | 207 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 44–55 | 400–540 | 11,0–14,5 | R | Hyundai i10 (IA/IB), Kia Picanto (TA), Suzuki Alto |
| LBN2 (LN2) | 242 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 54–65 | 470–640 | 12,5–16,5 | R/L | VW Polo V (6R), Ford Fiesta (JA8), Opel Corsa D |
| L0 (DIN 540xx) | 175 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 36–44 | 320–420 | 9,5–12,5 | R/L | Renault Twingo I (C06), rare microcar formats |
| L1 (DIN 541xx) | 207 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 44–55 | 400–540 | 11,5–15,0 | R/L | Audi A2 (8Z), VW Lupo (6X), Seat Arosa |
| L2 (DIN 542xx) | 242 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 55–70 | 520–720 | 13,0–18,5 | R/L | VW Golf IV to VII (1.4–2.0 TDI), Skoda Octavia (1U/1Z) |
| L3 (DIN 543xx) | 278 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 65–80 | 620–800 | 15,0–20,5 | R/L | Opel Astra J (P10), Ford Focus II Estate, Mazda 6 (GH) |
| L4 (DIN 544xx) | 315 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 75–92 | 720–850 | 17,5–23,0 | R/L | BMW 5 Series E34, Mercedes W124 (E-Class), Volvo 940 |
| L5 (DIN 545xx) | 353 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 85–100 | 800–900 | 19,5–25,5 | R/L | Mercedes E-Class W210, Audi A6 C5 (4B), Volvo V70 II |
| L6 (DIN 546xx) | 393 | 175 | 175 | 190 | 100–110 | 850–950 | 22,0–28,0 | R/L | BMW 7 Series E38 (750i/740d), Mercedes S-Class W140 (S350 TD) |
| H3 (DIN 553xx) | 278 | 175 | 190 | 205 | 65–75 | 560–680 | 15,0–19,5 | R/L | Honda Civic (FK/FN), Mazda 3 (BL), Nissan Qashqai (J10) |
| H4 (DIN 554xx) | 315 | 175 | 190 | 205 | 72–82 | 680–780 | 17,5–22,0 | R/L | Mercedes C-Class W203, Audi A4 B6/B7 (1.9/2.0 TDI), BMW 3 Series E90 |
| H5 (DIN 555xx) | 353 | 175 | 190 | 205 | 80–95 | 780–870 | 19,5–24,5 | R/L | VW Passat B6/B7 (2.0 TDI), Skoda Superb II (3T), Audi A6 C6 |
| H6 (DIN 556xx) | 393 | 175 | 190 | 205 | 92–110 | 830–950 | 22,0–27,5 | R/L | BMW 5 Series F10 (525d/535d), Mercedes E-Class W213 |
| H7 (DIN 557xx) | 315 | 175 | 190 | 205 | 80–90 | 750–850 | 18,5–23,0 | R | BMW 3 Series E90/E91 (335d/330d), right polarity only |
| H8 (DIN 558xx) | 353 | 175 | 190 | 205 | 90–110 | 850–950 | 21,5–27,0 | R/L | BMW X5 E70 (3.0d/4.8i), VW Touareg 7P (3.0 V6 TDI) |
| H9 (DIN 559xx) | 393 | 175 | 190 | 205 | 100–115 | 900–1020 | 24,0–29,0 | R/L | Range Rover Sport L320, Audi Q7 4L (4.2 TDI), Porsche Cayenne 958 |
| LBN3 (LN3) | 240 | 164 | 200 | 222 | 55–68 | 530–680 | 13,5–17,5 | R | Hyundai i30 (FDH), Kia Ceed (ED), Asian compact class |
| LBN4 (LN4) | 260 | 173 | 200 | 222 | 68–80 | 600–760 | 16,5–21,0 | R | Honda CR-V (RE), Toyota RAV4 (XA30), Mitsubishi Outlander |
| LBN5 (LN5) | 306 | 173 | 200 | 222 | 80–95 | 760–880 | 19,0–24,0 | R | Lexus RX (AL10), Toyota Land Cruiser (J150), large Asian SUVs |
The table illustrates some fundamental mechanical relationships: the width of 175 mm is the common element of almost all European battery standards – only the Asian-influenced LBN (Low-Box-Narrow) and LN series deviate from this with 127 mm (LBN0) or 164–173 mm (LBN3–LBN5). The decisive factor for selection is therefore primarily the length of the battery tray. An excess of 10–15 mm already prevents the retaining plate from engaging, while too little leads to slipping. The height differentiation between the H series (190 mm box height) and the L series (175 mm box height) enables use in vehicles with limited bonnet height – note the difference between box height and maximum installation height, which is determined by the terminal shape and any covers.
Proven rules of thumb for capacity and battery size
This tried-and-tested relation covers the starting current requirement of petrol engines and light diesel engines alike. It is based on the physical necessity of supplying the starter motor for at least 10 seconds at low temperatures with sufficient voltage. For a 150 hp engine, the calculation gives a basic requirement of 90 Ah (150/100 × 60 Ah). The implicit surcharge of 20 % compared with a linear calculation (75 Ah without safety factor) takes into account voltage drops caused by comfort consumers (heated steering wheel, heated windscreen, high-power audio systems), which continue to draw on the battery in the first few seconds even after a successful start.
The historical DIN code (e.g. DIN 54213 for a 62 Ah battery) contains a key piece of information in the fifth position: if there is a 5, the capacity is below 100 Ah. The complete spectrum from 540xx (36 Ah) to 559xx (95 Ah) is marked in this way. A 6 in this position means above 100 Ah, typically 600xx (105 Ah) to 610xx (115 Ah). This coding facilitates rough categorisation without looking at the detailed table and helps with a quick check of whether the vehicle requires a "high-capacity model".
The designation L0 to L6 in the EU box standard follows a linear logic: the spacing between the individual boxes is a constant approximately 35 mm in length. L0 measures 175 mm, L1 207 mm, L2 242 mm, L3 278 mm, L4 315 mm, L5 353 mm and L6 393 mm. This system allows a simple estimate: if the current battery with 242 mm length (L2) fits in the holder, it can be checked whether the tray can accommodate a 278 mm (L3) one if a higher capacity is needed. The width remains constant at 175 mm, the height at 175 mm. For the H series, the same length gradation applies, but with a box height increased to 190 mm.
The compression ratios of modern diesel engines (16:1 to 23:1) demand considerably higher torque from the starter motor than petrol engines (9:1 to 12:1). This significantly increases the current requirement during cold starting. A battery designed for a 2.0 TDI engine with 150 hp must deliver a cold cranking current of 750–800 A, while an equally powerful 2.0 TSI petrol engine manages with 600–650 A. The difference is therefore around 20–25 %. If in doubt, choose the next higher battery class – an L3 instead of L2 or H6 instead of H5 – to avoid starting problems on cold winter mornings.
Practical calculation: how to match your vehicle to the right battery size
Example 1: VW Golf VII 1.4 TSI (92 kW / 125 hp) with start-stop system
Initial situation: Compact car with petrol direct injection, factory-fitted start-stop and regenerative electrical system (recuperation). The start-stop system absolutely requires an EFB or AGM battery, as conventional flooded batteries fail after a few weeks of high cyclic load in city traffic. Mechanically, the battery recess is designed for the L2 standard (242 mm length); larger formats cannot be secured.
- Determine basic requirement: 125 hp / 100 hp × 60 Ah = 75 Ah theoretical minimum requirement.
- Start-stop surcharge: Due to the frequent engine starts and the need to supply the entire on-board electronics (lights, infotainment, ventilation) during "engine off" phases, a capacity buffer of at least 15 % must be planned. 75 Ah × 1.15 = 86 Ah.
- Cold tolerance and ageing reserve: A further surcharge of 5 % accounts for the decreasing capacity at temperatures below −10 °C and the natural ageing of the battery over its service life. 86 Ah × 1.05 = 90 Ah.
- Check housing availability: The L2 box (242 × 175 × 175 mm) can accommodate a maximum of 70 Ah in EFB technology. With AGM technology (higher energy density due to fleece separators), a capacity of 68–70 Ah is achievable – at the upper limit of the required range, but sufficient. Therefore, an AGM battery in L2 size with 70 Ah and a CCA of at least 680 A (EN) is chosen.
- Polarity check: On the VW Golf VII, both left and right polarity are possible depending on the engine and model year. A look at the installed battery (positive terminal on the left or right, viewed from above) is essential before purchase.
Example 2: BMW 520d F10 (135 kW / 184 hp) with 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel
Starting point: Mid-range saloon with common-rail diesel, start-stop system, electric steering wheel heating and auxiliary heater. The engine has a compression ratio of 16.5:1. The battery tray is designed for the H6 format (393 mm length, 175 mm width, 190 mm height).
- Base requirement: 184 hp / 100 hp × 60 Ah = 110.4 Ah.
- Diesel surcharge for cold starting: Additional CCA requirement of 20 % compared with an equally powerful petrol engine. The capacity to cover this extra requirement must be increased accordingly: 110.4 Ah × 1.20 = 132.5 Ah.
- Check availability in the H6 casing: In AGM technology, the H6 box offers a maximum capacity of 105–110 Ah. A flooded battery (conventional) is ruled out because of the start-stop system. A 105 Ah AGM with a cold cranking current of 950 A (EN) does not fully cover the requirement on paper, but in practice the effective CCA value compensates for the slight shortfall – the high current delivery capability of the AGM plates ensures reliable starts even at −25 °C.
- Consider the alternative: Switching to a LiFePO4 battery with an identical H6 casing allows capacities of 90–100 Ah at half the weight (around 13.5 kg compared with 24 kg for the AGM variant) and a cold cranking current of >1200 A – a technically superior, if more expensive, solution that particularly plays to its strengths on frequent short journeys with start-stop.
Technology decision: EFB, AGM or LiFePO4 – and what size has to do with it
The casing size determines not only the mechanical fit but also the technological limits. In an L2 casing with 242 mm length, only a certain number of plate pairs can physically be accommodated – around 54–60 Ah for flooded batteries, 62–70 Ah for EFB, 68–72 Ah for AGM. Anyone needing more capacity must move to the next larger casing (L3 or H5). The following comparison shows the technology-specific advantages and disadvantages in the context of the available sizes.
- Conventional flooded battery (SLI): The most cost-effective option, suitable for vehicles without start-stop. Capacity range from 35 Ah (LBN0) to 110 Ah (L6/H9). Not suitable for frequent cycles. Requires regular checking of the electrolyte level unless sealed. Typical CCA range: 300–950 A.
- EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery): An advanced flooded battery with polyester scrims on the plate surface that hold the active material and increase cycle resistance by 2 to 3 times compared with SLI. Typical sizes: L2 (65–70 Ah), L3 (72–80 Ah), H5 (80–85 Ah). Ideal for vehicles with a simple start-stop system (no recuperation electrical system).
- AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat): Battery with electrolyte bound in glass fleece, 3 to 4 times the cycle resistance of SLI. Higher energy density, therefore more Ah per casing size. Typical sizes: L2 (68–72 Ah), H6 (90–105 Ah), H7 (80–90 Ah), H8 (95–110 Ah), H9 (105–115 Ah). Mandatory for vehicles with a recuperation electrical system and coasting function.
- LiFePO4 (lithium iron phosphate): High-performance battery with an extreme weight advantage (50–60 % lighter than AGM) and a consistently high voltage level even at low states of charge. Capacity from 40 Ah (LBN2 replacement) to 100 Ah (H6 replacement), cold cranking currents beyond 1200 A. Due to the integrated BMS (Battery Management System), only compatible with vehicles whose charging voltage is in the range of 14.0–14.6 V – on older vehicles without a regulated alternator, retrofitting is critical.
For mechanical compatibility, adapter sets exist that allow LiFePO4 batteries to be installed in standard casing holders without altering the original mounting. When converting from SLI/EFB to AGM, no change is usually necessary, as the casing dimensions remain identical – the only decisive factor is the correct coding of the battery type in the electrical system control unit (BEM coding) so that the charging voltage characteristic is adjusted.
Correct polarity: the underestimated factor when choosing battery size
A common reason for ordering the wrong battery is ignoring the polarity side. The information in the standard tables (R = positive terminal on the right, L = positive terminal on the left) refers to the view from above, with the battery aligned so that the terminals are on the side facing the viewer. For some vehicle models both polarity variants are available, for others only one is mandatory. For example, the H7 box in BMW is almost exclusively fitted with right polarity (R), while the H9 box in the Audi Q7 comes with either L or R polarity depending on the engine and model year.
Before ordering, the polarity of the currently installed battery must be checked – if unsure, take a photo with your smartphone and document the position of the positive terminal (marked with +, red cable or red terminal cover) relative to the centre of the battery case. Reversing the polarity during installation (connecting the terminals the wrong way round) leads to irreversible damage to control units, the alternator and the battery itself. Most modern batteries also have terminal posts with different diameters (positive terminal 19.5 mm, negative terminal 17.9 mm), so there is mechanical protection against reverse polarity – nevertheless, care is essential.
Order safely online: shipping based on vehicle data, not just size
Determining the correct battery size from the table is the first step – but for smooth delivery right to your front door, matching it against the vehicle key data is essential. Electronicx GmbH from Cleebronn (Baden-Württemberg) ships batteries in all common EU box standards to private and business customers throughout Germany.
Ordering based on battery size alone carries the risk that the chemical technology (EFB/AGM/flooded) does not match the vehicle's equipment. So use our online configurator or, if you have any questions, provide the vehicle make, model, year, engine and equipment features (start-stop yes/no, electrical system type) – this way we ensure that not only the case fits, but also that the electrical parameters (capacity, CCA, charging voltage compatibility) are exactly matched to your vehicle. Further information on safe online purchasing can be found under Buying a car battery online – how to do it safely.
After the purchase: installation, registration and correct disposal of the old battery
Once the new battery is available in the right size and technology, it is time for installation. In modern vehicles with BEM (Battery Energy Management), battery registration must be carried out after installation – the control unit needs to know the new capacity, the type (AGM/flooded/EFB) and the serial number in order to adjust the charging characteristic. Without registration, a new AGM battery in a vehicle with an uninformed electrical system ages prematurely within a few months. A detailed guide to safe DIY replacement or replacement at a workshop can be found under Replacing a car battery yourself or at a workshop: pros and cons as well as frequently asked questions under Changing a car battery: FAQ.
The old battery must be disposed of properly. Since the Battery Ordinance of 2009, retailers have been legally obliged to take back starter batteries free of charge – a deposit of 7.50 euros is charged at purchase and refunded when an old vehicle battery is returned. The take-back applies regardless of whether the old battery was purchased from us. We have compiled all the details on free returns and the legal background under Disposing of a car battery: free of charge at the retailer – how it works.
Storing spare batteries: how AGM and co. survive 6 months without damage
Anyone who wants to keep a second battery as a spare (for example for classic cars, seasonal vehicles or as a reserve for diesel-hungry engines) must consider self-discharge and chemical ageing during storage. AGM and EFB batteries have a self-discharge rate of around 2–3 % per month, LiFePO4 batteries only 0.5–1 %. Storage at a temperature of 10–15 °C is crucial, as higher temperatures accelerate discharge. After no more than six months, the state of charge should be checked and the battery recharged if it falls below 12.5 V (AGM) in order to avoid deep discharge damage. All practical tips on long-term battery storage can be found in our article Car battery storage: surviving 6 months without problems.
Frequently asked questions about the battery size table and DIN standards (FAQ)
Can I install a larger battery than stated in the vehicle documentation?
This is possible provided that the battery tray can physically accommodate the larger casing and the mounting (bracket, retaining plate) secures the format. The electrical parameters (voltage 12 V, CCA greater than or equal to the minimum value of the original battery) must be correct. A larger capacity (more Ah) is generally uncritical, as the vehicle electrical system only draws the energy it needs. However, in vehicles with BEM, the new capacity and, if applicable, the changed battery type must be registered in the control unit, otherwise the charging electronics will operate with incorrect parameters.
What does the specification "CCA EN (A)" in the table mean?
CCA stands for "Cold Cranking Amperes" and specifies the amount of current that a battery can deliver at −18 °C for 30 seconds without the voltage dropping below 7.5 V. The test standard EN 50342 is binding throughout Europe. An EN-CCA rating of 800 A therefore means: at Siberian −18 °C, the battery can maintain 800 amperes for 30 seconds. This is the decisive parameter for starting capability in winter – never compare only the capacity (Ah), because two batteries with the same Ah value can have very different CCA values, depending on plate geometry and technology.
My current battery has different dimensions from the table – is it wrong?
Not necessarily. In addition to the European EU box standards (which we show in the table), there are Japanese JIS standards (e.g. 34B19L, 55D23L) and American BCI groups (e.g. group 34, 48, 49, 94R). Many Asian vehicles (Toyota, Honda, Mazda) use JIS batteries, which differ in dimensions and polarity logic from EU boxes. The designation "LBN0" or "LBN3" in our table indicates that it is an EU adaptation for Asian vehicles with casings modelled on the Japanese dimensions. If in doubt, check the vehicle documents or your dealer's battery configurator.
Where can I find the DIN number on my old battery?
The historical DIN number (9-digit, e.g. 588 028 080) is embossed on many older batteries (before approximately 2005) on the casing label or on the lid next to the terminals. It is composed of voltage (first digit: 5 = 6 V, 6 = 12 V), capacity class (second digit), casing size and polarity. Modern batteries instead use the EU box code (e.g. L2, H6) and a 9-digit ETN (European Type Number), which is prominently displayed on the label (e.g. 560 068 054). Both systems serve for unambiguous identification – pay attention to the EU box code, as this corresponds directly with our table.
Are there batteries in special sizes that are not listed in the table?
Yes. Commercial vehicle batteries (lorries, buses) follow their own standards (DIN 72553) and reach lengths of over 500 mm. Motorcycle batteries, scooter batteries and batteries for construction machinery have other casing standards (YTX, YTZ, various custom formats). Classic cars with 6-volt electrical systems (Beetle, Trabant) also require special casings that are not listed in the passenger car standard table for 12-volt starter batteries. Our table covers exclusively 12-volt passenger car batteries according to EN 50342.
Why is only polarity "R" available for some sizes (e.g. H7)?
Some casing sizes were historically developed for specific vehicle platforms where the battery tray and wiring harness dictate a fixed terminal position. The H7 box with 315 mm length and 190 mm height was largely shaped by BMW for the 3 Series (E90) and 5 Series (E60), where the positive terminal is invariably on the right. A left-hand polarity was not requested by manufacturers for this platform, so the tooling exists only in R. In other sizes (e.g. H6, H8), both L and R versions are available, as these boxes were installed in different makes and models with variable polarity.
How are the dimensions in the table determined – are these minimum or maximum dimensions?
The specified dimensions correspond to the nominal values of EN 50342 with the usual manufacturing tolerances of ±2 mm. The box height refers to the plastic casing up to the top edge of the lid without terminal clamps. The maximum height includes the terminal clamps protruding from the lid (for AGM usually flush or only 3–5 mm, for flooded batteries often up to 15 mm) and, if applicable, handle strips. The maximum height is decisive for installation, as the bonnet or seat surfaces in the engine compartment rarely allow more than 15 mm clearance above the box height.
Do I need to register or have the battery learned after installation?
Vehicles with battery energy management (BEM) – these are most models from model year 2008 onwards with start-stop and/or intelligent alternator – require registration of the new battery. This informs the control unit of capacity, type (AGM/EFB/flooded) and serial number. Without registration, the vehicle charges the new battery using the charging curve of the old (and aged) battery, which can lead to chronic undercharging or overcharging. An AGM battery without registration in a Passat B7 loses 30 % of its cycle life within 18 months. Registration requires a diagnostic device with manufacturer protocol (VCDS, ISTA, XENTRY, etc.) and cannot be carried out with simple OBD adapters.
Conclusion: With the right size table to the optimum battery
The car battery size table according to DIN standards is more than a list of dry millimetre figures – it is the central tool for ruling out wrong orders and installation problems from the outset. Use the table as a first filter to check housing compatibility, and combine it with the rules of thumb for capacity, cold cranking current and technology. The second step is the careful polarity check and the decision between EFB, AGM and LiFePO4 based on the vehicle equipment. Once you have internalised this system, you will find the perfect battery in just a few steps – and not only for your current vehicle, but also for classics, the second car or future models. If you are unsure, you can rely on the expertise of Electronicx – based in Cleebronn, Baden-Württemberg, with a comprehensive range of all common EU box standards and direct availability on +49 7135 7194106 or [email protected]. Fast delivery within Germany is just as much a matter of course as expert advice – whether for customers in Stuttgart, Munich or Cologne.
Managing Director Andreas Emschanow and the entire team of Electronicx GmbH, registered with the Stuttgart Local Court under HRB 752730 (VAT ID No. DE300176428), stand for well-founded product information and a range that covers all the standards listed in the table. For your next battery order, rely on the combination of a precise size table and experienced expert advice.