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12 May 2023 How much does a new car battery and replacement cost?
How do you know it's time for a car battery replacement? There are a few simple signs that your battery is at its end. For example, if you find yourself having to jump-start the battery multiple times or it loses its charge too quickly after recharging, it is probably time for a replacement. Dim lights and problems with the electronics in your vehicle are symptoms of a flat battery, as well as an engine that takes a long time to crank.
There could also be visible signs of damage, such as a cracked or swollen case, or badly corroded connectors. This is normally caused by exposure to extreme temperatures. If there’s a gas leak caused by damage or an internal short, there will usually be a foul, rotten odour. If there’s a rotten egg smell coming from under the bonnet, it is therefore recommended to get it checked out as soon as possible. Moreover, your battery may just be getting old. Car batteries typically need to be replaced every 3 to 5 years.
How much is a new car battery?
The cost of a new car battery in the UK depends on the type and requirements of the vehicle. Lead-acid batteries, suitable for older or budget cars, are the cheapest, costing between £40 and £120, although they do require regular maintenance. Calcium batteries, an improved, maintenance-free version, cost around £55 to £140 and are ideal for modern, mid-range cars.
Article number: YBX9115
£ 218,62
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: 8022500008882
£ 252,79
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
BOSCH Battery
12V 60Ah 680A AGM Battery
Article number: 0 092 S5A 050
£ 129,24
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Article number: YBX9096
£ 166,25
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
For premium cars or those with higher power requirements, silver-calcium batteries offer increased durability, corrosion resistance and better performance in extreme temperatures, with prices ranging from £70 to £200. Always check the battery is compatible with your car before buying.
| Battery Type | Typical Cost Range | Features | Common Use |
| Lead-Acid Batteries | £40 – £120 | Traditional type, affordable, requires regular maintenance (checking water levels). | Older cars, budget-friendly vehicles. |
| Calcium Batteries | £55 – £140 | Enhanced version of lead-acid batteries, more durable and maintenance-free. | Modern cars, mid-range vehicles. |
| Silver-Calcium Batteries | £70 – £200 | Higher resistance to corrosion, longer lifespan, better performance in extreme temperatures. | Premium vehicles, cars with higher power demands. |
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Car battery replacement cost
The average price for replacing a battery in the UK currently stands at about £169.70. The price of a new car battery will vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the type of battery and the age, make and model of the vehicle.
Average replacement cost for different vehicle makes:
| BMW | £224 |
| Mercedes-Benz | £211 |
| Audi | £206 |
| Volvo | £186 |
| Vauxhall | £161 |
| Volkswagen | £159 |
| Renault | £146 |
Car battery brands
Before you think about what brands to choose aftermarket products from, the most important thing to consider is the specifications and requirements for your specific vehicle. For example, you’ll need to know the type of battery you’re looking for, the dimensions (length, width, height), and the cold cranking amps and cranking amps. The main differences between brands are the quality of the materials and production processes and the warranty length. For example, due to the company’s extensive testing and development processes, a new Bosch car battery is likely to have better cold-start performance and deep cycle resistance than products from lower-budget brands. Other top manufacturers include VARTA, EXIDE, and Continental.
Article number: EK820
£ 131,64
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
VARTA Battery
12V 60Ah 540A B13 Lead-acid battery
Article number: 5604080543132
£ 77,42
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
VARTA Battery
12V 80Ah 740A B13 Lead-acid battery
Article number: 5804060743132
£ 99,90
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
BOSCH Battery
12V 70Ah 630A Lead-acid battery
Article number: 0 092 S40 260
£ 95,40
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
YUASA Battery
12V 65Ah 600A with handles, EFB Battery
Article number: YBX7027
£ 117,57
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
How to choose the right battery for your car
To choose the right car battery, start by consulting your car manual for specifications such as size, capacity and type. Think about the power requirements of your car, especially if it has advanced electronics or start-stop technology. Match the battery type – lead acid, calcium or AGM – to your needs and driving conditions. Don’t forget to consider climate, as cold weather requires higher CCA ratings. Finally, you should evaluate maintenance preferences, budget, and warranty options to ensure reliable performance and long-term value.
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How long should a car battery last?
A three to five-year lifespan is standard for most car batteries, though EV batteries can last 8 to 15 years. keep in mind that actual longevity depends on key factors like climate, driving conditions, and maintenance. Extreme temperatures, frequent short trips, and neglecting routine care can all shorten a battery’s effective lifespan significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How can I make my battery last longer?
If you want to extend its service life, it is important to avoid using electronic accessories, such as the additional car lighting or infotainment system, while the engine isn’t running. Leaving the headlights on is one of the easiest ways to drain the battery. It is also a good idea to clean it regularly, removing traces of corrosion from the terminals and lead clamps. Try to avoid having too many short car journeys as this won’t give the unit a chance to recharge.
- Can I change the car battery myself?
Replacing it at home is also an option which will help you to save some money. For most older models, this is a fairly straightforward procedure that only requires simple tools. Modern vehicles can be a bit more complex as the battery will often need to be coded to the onboard system.
- How long does the replacement take?
Changing a car battery typically takes 15 to 30 minutes for most vehicles. However, this estimate may vary depending on factors such as battery location, vehicle design, and the experience of the person performing the replacement.
Useful videos on this topic:
How to check/test and fix a car battery
How to choose the right battery for your car
Things you should know about car batteries
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