Choosing the right battery for the VW Crafter I (30-35) produced between 2006 and 2016 is essential to maintain the reliability of this workhorse vehicle. Since the Crafter is widely used for commercial purposes, often subjected to high electrical loads and frequent starts, the battery must be matched carefully to the engine type and equipment level. The engine variants available in this model include several versions of the 2.0 TDI and 2.5 TDI, both with and without Start-Stop systems, which significantly affect the type of battery required.
For models equipped with the 2.0 TDI engine and no Start-Stop system, a standard lead-acid battery is suitable. These vehicles require a battery with a capacity between 74 and 78 Ah and a cold cranking amperage (CCA) from 680 to 780 A. This specification ensures that the engine can crank reliably in colder conditions and provides stable power to onboard electronics. Some examples of compatible batteries include Bosch S40 08, Exide EA770, and Varta E11. These are traditional, high-quality lead-acid batteries known for dependable performance in utility vehicles.
If your Crafter is equipped with the older and more robust 2.5 TDI engine, the battery requirements are nearly identical. Although this engine is mechanically simpler, it still demands reliable cranking power, especially in colder climates or when the vehicle carries heavy loads. A battery in the same 74–78 Ah range with 680–780 A CCA, such as the Exide EB740 or Lucas LS096, would be appropriate. These batteries offer sufficient reserve capacity to handle auxiliary systems like lights, heaters, or refrigeration units that are often used in commercial applications.
In newer variants with the 2.0 TDI engine featuring Start-Stop functionality, the battery choice changes significantly. These engines require AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries, which are specifically designed to handle the additional electrical cycling from frequent engine restarts. The required battery capacity in this case is 70–72 Ah with a higher CCA of 720 to 760 A. Examples of compatible AGM batteries include Bosch S5A 08, Exide EK720, and Varta E39. AGM batteries are also more vibration-resistant, which is beneficial for vehicles often driven on uneven surfaces or for long periods.
An even more demanding configuration is the 2.0 TDI 4Motion with Start-Stop, which requires a larger AGM battery due to the additional power needed for the all-wheel drive system and increased electrical demands. This setup calls for a battery with a capacity of around 95–96 Ah and a CCA of 850 A. Compatible examples include Bosch S5A 13, Exide EK950, and Varta G14. These batteries are engineered for heavy-duty use and provide exceptional endurance, especially in vehicles operating under tough commercial conditions.
One interesting fact about the VW Crafter I is that it shares much of its platform with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter of the same era. Despite this, the battery specifications can vary between models due to different engine calibrations and electrical systems. That’s why it’s always advisable to check the original equipment battery label or vehicle documentation before purchasing a replacement.
In vehicles like the Crafter, where reliability is critical, using a high-quality battery ensures smoother operation, especially in delivery or utility service where downtime is costly. For Start-Stop versions, it is also important to consider battery registration or coding after installation, so the vehicle’s charging system can adapt to the new battery. This small but important step can prolong battery life and prevent issues related to improper charging.
Whether you’re powering a standard diesel Crafter or a Start-Stop-equipped 4Motion version, choosing the right battery will directly impact performance and efficiency. By selecting a battery that matches your engine type and usage needs, such as the examples mentioned above, you’ll keep your Crafter running reliably and ready for the demands of every workday.
VW Crafter in version I (30-35) was produced in the years 2006 – 2016. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for VW Crafter (2006-2016):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
VW Crafter I (30-35) – diesel engines:
- 2.0 TDI
- 2.5 TDI
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
VW Crafter I (30-35) – diesel engines:
- 2.0 TDI – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK700 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK720 | 72 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
VW Crafter I (30-35) – diesel engines:
- 2.0 TDI 4motion – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 13 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK950 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK960 | 96 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 019 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF017 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM G14 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your VW Crafter , or if you want to help others in their selection, please send us a photo of your current battery in the comment section at the bottom of the page. You can also send the picture to contact@whatbattery.co.uk (we will place it in the comments to also help other users). Be sure to specify the car model, year, type, as well as the engine capacity and power. We’ll do our best to assist you!