Short answer
A compatible battery matches the vehicle's required technology (conventional, EFB or AGM), physically fits the tray and hold-down, has the correct terminal layout, meets the specified cold-cranking rating and has a capacity the vehicle allows. On vehicles with battery monitoring, it must also be registered or coded.
Five checks, in order
1. Technology. The vehicle decides this. Start-stop vehicles usually need EFB or AGM. Hybrid and electric vehicles may need very specific low-voltage batteries.
2. Physical size. Batteries come in standard case sizes (group, EN/DIN or JIS codes). The battery must sit flat in the tray and be clamped by the hold-down. A loose battery vibrates and fails early.
3. Terminal layout. The positive terminal may be on the left or the right. Cables usually only reach one way. Post sizes also differ between standards.
4. Ratings. The battery should meet the specified cold-cranking rating and have a capacity within the vehicle’s allowed range. See capacity and CCA.
5. Electronics. Vehicles with battery monitoring must be told about the new battery. See registration and coding.
Why model and year are not always enough
The same model can use different batteries depending on engine, market, start-stop equipment and production date. That is why we ask for a photo of your current battery label as well as the vehicle details — and why final compatibility is confirmed at the vehicle.
Hybrids and EVs
Hybrids carry a 12V auxiliary battery that boots the hybrid system. Many electric vehicles use a low-voltage battery for control electronics; some are lead-acid, others lithium-ion. Lithium low-voltage batteries are generally manufacturer-specific parts, not general replacements.
Find your vehicle
Start from your vehicle make to see what we know about your model and what we confirm on site.
Last reviewed 20 October 2026