10 min readPublished 15 June 2025
Buying the right battery size is critical. A battery that has the right power but doesn't physically fit in the tray or has terminals in the wrong place is useless.
This master guide explains every major UK battery size code (063, 096, 100, 110, 027) so you can order with 100% confidence.
Quick Answer
The 'Size Code' (e.g., 096) dictates dimensions and terminal layout. 063 is standard for small cars. 096 is the most common for modern hatchbacks/saloons. 019/110 are for large luxury/4x4s. Always match the code printed on your old battery.
Common causes
- -Battery too tall (bonnet won't close)
- -Terminals round the wrong way (cables won't reach)
- -Battery too long for the tray
Typical fixes
- -Check dimensions (Length x Width x Height) before buying
- -Verify 'Hold Down' clamp style (B13 is standard)
- -Confirm Terminal Layout (Positive Left vs Right)
Common Size Cheat Sheet
Small Petrol Car (Fiesta/Corsa)
Likely cause: Size 063 (Standard) or 027 (Start/Stop)
Next step: Measure length: 207mm (063) vs 242mm (027)
Medium/Large Car (Golf/3 Series)
Likely cause: Size 096 (278mm Length)
Next step: The UK's most popular size
Large SUV / Diesel (Range Rover)
Likely cause: Size 019 or 020 (353mm Length)
Next step: 019 is lower height (190mm), 020 is taller
The Ultimate UK Battery Size Chart
Common sizes found on UK roads.
- **063**: 207 x 175 x 175mm. (Small Petrols)
- **027**: 242 x 175 x 190mm. (Standard Hatchbacks)
- **096**: 278 x 175 x 190mm. (Diesels, Start/Stop)
- **100**: 278 x 175 x 175mm. (Lower height version of 096 - common in Fords/Vauxhalls)
- **110**: 315 x 175 x 175mm. (Large Fords/Audis)
- **019**: 353 x 175 x 190mm. (Large Flagships)
Don't Forget Terminals
A battery can be the right size but have positive/negative on the wrong sides.
- **Layout 0**: Positive Right (Most common)
- **Layout 1**: Positive Left (Often Japanese cars)
- **Japanese Terminals (JIS)**: Smaller 'pencil' posts. Need adapters for standard clamps.
How to Measure Properly
1. Measure Length (longest side).
2. Measure Width.
3. Measure Height (inc terminals).
4. Check if the clamp is at the bottom (B13) or if a frame goes over the top.
AI-Friendly Summary
- Size isn't just power - it's physical fitment.
- 096 is the new standard for modern cars.
- Height is the most common mistake (175mm vs 190mm).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fit a larger battery than standard?
Sometimes. If your tray has extra space and the clamp can move, yes. A larger battery (e.g. 096 instead of 027) gives more power. But insure cables reach.
What does 'low height' mean?
Some Fords/Vauxhalls require 175mm height batteries (e.g. size 100/110) because a 190mm high battery would hit the bonnet.
