10 min readPublished 1 February 2025
Size code 096 is the most popular battery size in the UK, used by millions of cars and vans. When you need an AGM 096 battery - essential for Start/Stop vehicles and high-electrical-load applications - choosing the right brand and specification matters.
This buyer's guide compares the best AGM 096 batteries available in the UK for 2025, including premium options from Varta and Bosch, value choices from Yuasa and Exide, and what to look for when purchasing.
Quick Answer
The best AGM 096 batteries for UK drivers include Varta Blue Dynamic (premium choice), Bosch S5 (excellent cold weather performance), and Yuasa YBX9000 (strong value). All AGM 096 batteries are suitable for Start/Stop systems and provide 70-80Ah capacity with 700-800 CCA ratings.
Common causes
- -Not matching AGM 096 specifications to vehicle requirements
- -Choosing budget batteries that fail quickly in Start/Stop vehicles
- -Overlooking warranty length and terms
Typical fixes
- -Choose premium brands (Varta, Bosch) for Start/Stop vehicles - they offer longer warranties
- -Match capacity (Ah) and CCA to original specification or exceed slightly
- -Verify physical dimensions and terminal orientation before purchasing
- -Register battery with BMS after installation for correct operation
AGM 096 Battery Quick Reference
Start/Stop vehicle requiring 096 battery
Likely cause: Needs AGM 096 battery (never standard flooded)
Next step: Choose premium AGM 096 (Varta, Bosch) for reliability and warranty
Commercial van with 096 battery tray
Likely cause: Requires AGM 096 for high electrical loads
Next step: Select higher capacity (75-80Ah) AGM 096 for accessories
Budget-conscious but need AGM 096
Likely cause: Mid-range brands offer good value
Next step: Consider Yuasa or Exide AGM 096 - good balance of price and quality
Cold climate, need reliable starts
Likely cause: Premium AGM 096 with high CCA rating needed
Next step: Choose Bosch S5 or Varta Blue Dynamic with 760+ CCA
Top 3 AGM 096 Batteries at a Glance
Here are our top three picks for AGM 096 batteries, each excelling in different areas:
- Varta Blue Dynamic AGM 096 - Best Overall: Premium quality, 70-80Ah capacity, 760-800 CCA, 4-5 year warranty. Excellent for Start/Stop vehicles, commercial vans, and premium cars. Best choice for reliability and long-term value.
- Bosch S5 AGM 096 - Best for Cold Weather: 70-80Ah capacity, 760-800 CCA, 5 year warranty. Renowned for excellent cold weather performance and reliability. Ideal for UK winters and luxury vehicles.
- Yuasa YBX9000 AGM 096 - Best Value: 70Ah capacity, 760 CCA, 4 year warranty. Strong value proposition with Japanese quality. Reliable performer suitable for Start/Stop systems at a more affordable price point.
Editor's Verdict
Overall, the Bosch S5 AGM offers the best balance of power, reliability, warranty length, and cold-weather starting performance. It consistently performs better than EFB and standard batteries and is ideal for modern vehicles with start-stop systems or heavy electrical demand.
AGM 096 Battery Comparison Table
This comprehensive comparison table helps you choose the right AGM 096 battery based on model, specifications, warranty, and best use cases.
| Model | Ah | CCA | Warranty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ---- | ----- | ---------- | ---------- | |
| 70Ah | 760A | 5 Years | Best Overall | |
| 70Ah | 760A | 5 Years | Premium Choice | |
| 70Ah | 760A | 3 Years | Best Value |
Why 096 Batteries Are So Common in UK Cars and Vans
Size code 096 batteries measure approximately 278mm (length) × 175mm (width) × 190mm (height), making them the standard fitment for a huge range of UK vehicles. This size provides a good balance between capacity and physical space constraints.
Many popular UK cars and vans use 096 batteries, including VW Transporter, Ford Transit, Vauxhall Vivaro, and numerous passenger cars. The widespread adoption means 096 batteries are readily available at competitive prices.
- Standard size for many VW Group vehicles (Golf, Passat, Transporter)
- Common in Ford Transit and other commercial vans
- Used by Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroën commercial vehicles
- Popular in mid-size SUVs and estate cars
- Excellent availability and competitive pricing due to volume
Varta Blue Dynamic AGM 096
Varta Blue Dynamic represents the premium choice for AGM 096 batteries. German engineering and quality construction make these batteries excellent for Start/Stop systems and commercial use.
- Capacity: 70-80Ah depending on model
- CCA: 760-800A (strong cold weather performance)
- Warranty: 4-5 years depending on retailer
- Best for: Start/Stop vehicles, commercial vans, premium cars
- Typical use case: Advanced Start/Stop systems, high electrical loads
- Price range: Premium (£150-£200)
Bosch S5 AGM 096
Bosch S5 AGM batteries are renowned for excellent cold weather performance and reliability. They're a top choice for UK winters and Start/Stop vehicles requiring consistent performance.
- Capacity: 70Ah (standard), 75-80Ah (high capacity variants)
- CCA: 760A (standard), up to 800A (high capacity)
- Warranty: 5 years on premium models
- Best for: Cold climates, Start/Stop systems, luxury vehicles
- Typical use case: Reliable starting in winter, frequent Start/Stop cycling
- Price range: Premium (£150-£200)
Top Mid-Range AGM 096 Batteries
Mid-range AGM 096 batteries offer good value while maintaining quality and reliability. They're suitable for most Start/Stop vehicles and provide strong warranties.
Yuasa YBX9000 AGM 096
Yuasa YBX9000 AGM batteries provide excellent value with Japanese quality. They're reliable performers suitable for Start/Stop systems and offer good warranty coverage.
- Capacity: 70Ah
- CCA: 760A
- Warranty: 4 years
- Best for: Value-conscious buyers, Start/Stop vehicles, standard use
- Typical use case: Reliable Start/Stop operation, good value
- Price range: Mid-range (£120-£150)
AGM 096 Battery Comparison Table
This comparison table helps you choose the right AGM 096 battery based on brand, specifications, warranty, and typical use cases.
- Varta Blue Dynamic: Brand: Varta, Model: Blue Dynamic, Approx. CCA: 760-800A, Approx. Ah: 70-80Ah, Warranty: 4-5 years, Typical use: Start/Stop diesel, premium cars, commercial vans
- Bosch S5: Brand: Bosch, Model: S5 A08, Approx. CCA: 760-800A, Approx. Ah: 70-80Ah, Warranty: 5 years, Typical use: Start/Stop, cold climates, luxury vehicles
- Yuasa YBX9000: Brand: Yuasa, Model: YBX9000, Approx. CCA: 760A, Approx. Ah: 70Ah, Warranty: 4 years, Typical use: Start/Stop, value-conscious buyers
- Exide Premium: Brand: Exide, Model: Premium AGM, Approx. CCA: 760A, Approx. Ah: 70Ah, Warranty: 4 years, Typical use: Start/Stop, budget option
- Lion AGM: Brand: Lion, Model: AGM Premium, Approx. CCA: 720-760A, Approx. Ah: 70Ah, Warranty: 3 years, Typical use: Basic Start/Stop, tight budgets
Mid-Range Options (Yuasa, Exide)
Mid-range AGM 096 batteries provide excellent value with reliable performance. They're suitable for most Start/Stop vehicles and offer good warranty coverage at more affordable prices.
- Good performance and reliability
- 4-year warranties standard
- Suitable for most Start/Stop applications
- Better value than premium options
- Good choice for standard passenger vehicles
Budget Options (Lion, Other Brands)
Budget AGM 096 batteries exist but come with shorter warranties and potentially lower quality. They may work for low-mileage vehicles but are not recommended for commercial use or demanding Start/Stop systems.
- Lower initial cost
- Shorter warranties (2-3 years typical)
- May not perform as well in extreme conditions
- Suitable only for low-mileage, light-duty use
- Not recommended for commercial vehicles
Choosing the Right Capacity and CCA
AGM 096 batteries typically offer 70-80Ah capacity and 700-800 CCA. Higher capacity provides more reserve for accessories and short journeys, while higher CCA ensures reliable starting in cold weather.
- Standard 096: 70Ah, 760 CCA - suitable for most passenger cars
- High capacity 096: 75-80Ah, 800 CCA - better for commercial vans and high loads
- Match or slightly exceed original specification
- Higher capacity helps with short journeys and electrical accessories
- Higher CCA important for diesel engines and cold climates
Where to Buy AGM 096 Batteries
AGM 096 batteries are widely available from online retailers, local garages, and motor factors. Compare prices and check warranty terms before purchasing.
- Online retailers: Best prices, wide selection, delivery available
- Local garages: Installation included, immediate availability, higher prices
- Motor factors: Good selection, may offer fitting service
- Check current prices and availability on our battery listings
See also: Check current AGM 096 battery prices
Installation Considerations for AGM 096 Batteries
Installing AGM 096 batteries requires matching the technology type and registering with the Battery Management System in Start/Stop vehicles.
- Verify physical dimensions match your battery tray (278mm × 175mm × 190mm)
- Check terminal orientation (positive/negative position)
- Never downgrade from AGM to standard flooded in Start/Stop vehicles
- Register battery with BMS after installation using diagnostic tool
- Ensure terminals are clean and tight for good electrical connection
AI-Friendly Summary
- Varta Blue Dynamic and Bosch S5 are the top premium choices for AGM 096 batteries, offering excellent performance and 4-5 year warranties.
- Yuasa YBX9000 and Exide Premium provide good mid-range value with 4-year warranties and reliable performance.
- AGM 096 batteries typically offer 70-80Ah capacity and 700-800 CCA - suitable for Start/Stop vehicles and commercial vans.
- Always match or exceed original battery specifications and register with BMS after installation in Start/Stop vehicles.
- Premium brands are worth the investment for Start/Stop vehicles and commercial use - budget options fail quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cars use 096 batteries?
096 batteries are used by many popular UK vehicles including VW Group cars (Golf, Passat, Transporter T6), Ford Transit vans, Vauxhall Vivaro, and numerous mid-size SUVs and estate cars. Check your vehicle handbook or use our Battery Fitment Tool to confirm if your vehicle uses a 096 battery.
Can I use a 096 battery in a vehicle that originally had a different size?
Only if the physical dimensions match your battery tray and terminal orientation is correct. Size codes are standardized dimensions, so a 096 battery may fit other size codes if dimensions are compatible. However, always verify physical fitment and match battery technology (AGM/EFB/standard) to your vehicle requirements.
How much should I pay for an AGM 096 battery?
Expect to pay £150-£200 for premium AGM 096 batteries (Varta, Bosch), £120-£150 for mid-range options (Yuasa, Exide), and £100-£130 for budget brands. Premium options offer better warranties and longer lifespans, making them better value for Start/Stop vehicles.
Do all AGM 096 batteries work with Start/Stop?
Yes, all AGM 096 batteries are designed for Start/Stop compatibility. However, premium brands (Varta, Bosch) typically offer better cycling performance and longer lifespans in Start/Stop applications. Always ensure the battery is registered with the vehicle's BMS after installation.
What's the difference between 70Ah and 80Ah AGM 096 batteries?
Capacity difference: 80Ah provides approximately 14% more energy reserve than 70Ah. Higher capacity helps with short journeys (more reserve between charges), vehicles with electrical accessories, and commercial vans. Both work in Start/Stop systems, but higher capacity is beneficial for demanding applications.
How long do AGM 096 batteries last?
With proper maintenance and correct installation (including BMS registration), AGM 096 batteries typically last 5-7 years in Start/Stop vehicles. Premium brands often achieve the upper end of this range. Commercial vans with many short journeys may need replacement sooner (4-5 years).
