When choosing a battery for the Volkswagen Golf 4 (1997-2005), it is important to pay attention to several key factors, such as capacity, starting current, and battery type. Depending on the engine version, the power demand may vary, making the correct battery selection crucial for the proper operation of the vehicle.
For gasoline engines ranging from 1.4 to 2.0 liters, which do not have the Start-Stop system, lead-acid batteries with a capacity of 44 to 65 Ah and a starting current of 360 to 640 A are recommended. For example, for engines like the 1.6 16V, batteries with a capacity of 55-65 Ah would work well. Example models include Bosch S30 05, Exide EA640, or Varta D15. Larger engines, such as the 2.0 or 1.8 T, require batteries with a slightly higher starting current, in the range of 540-640 A. Here, models like Bosch S40 05, Exide EA640, or Varta D24 are worth considering.
For diesel engines, like the 1.9 TDI, batteries with a capacity of 70 to 78 Ah and a starting current of 640 to 780 A are recommended. Diesel engines have a higher power demand, especially during startup, meaning they require stronger batteries. Example models suitable for these engines include Bosch S50 08, Exide EA770, or Varta E13.
The Volkswagen Golf 4 does not feature the Start-Stop system, which means that standard lead-acid batteries will be appropriate for all engine versions. However, it is advisable to choose batteries from reputable brands to ensure reliability and longevity. Interestingly, in models with four-wheel drive, such as the 1.9 TDI 4motion, a stronger battery may be necessary to handle the increased load.
VW Golf in version 4 was produced in the years 1997 – 2005. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for VW Golf (1997-2005):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
VW Golf 4 – petrol engines:
- 1.4 16V
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 02 | 45 Ah 400 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 02 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 02 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC440 | 44 Ah 360 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB500 | 50 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA530 | 53 Ah 540 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 012 | 52 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP012 | 45 Ah 390 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP079 | 50 Ah 420 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS012 | 58 Ah 520 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic B19 | 45 Ah 400 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic C22 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic C30 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
For the Volkswagen Golf 4 with the 1.4 16V petrol engine (produced from 1997 to 2005) without Start-Stop technology, there is a specific group of batteries that are best suited to meet the requirements of this vehicle. These engines, being relatively small and not equipped with Start-Stop systems, require standard lead-acid batteries with moderate capacity and starting current. The typical battery dimensions that fit the battery tray for this model are around 207-210 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height. The terminal layout should be the European standard layout 0 (positive terminal on the right when the terminals are closest to the user), and the terminal type should be 1 (standard round posts). The mounting type is usually B13, which is standard for most European cars of this era.
The recommended batteries for these engines come from reputable manufacturers such as Bosch, Varta, Exide, Halfords, and Lucas. Capacities generally range from 44 to 58 Ah, with cold cranking amps (CCA) between 360 and 540 A, providing reliable starting power even in colder climates. Higher capacity options, such as 54 Ah or 58 Ah, can offer added reserve and durability, especially if the car is equipped with additional electrical accessories. Battery series like Bosch S3, S4, S5; Varta Black, Blue, Silver Dynamic; and Exide Premium, Excell, and Classic are all suitable choices, as well as batteries from Halfords and Lucas, provided they match the specified dimensions and terminal layout.
It is important to ensure the selected battery matches the physical size of the battery compartment and the terminal arrangement of the Golf 4 1.4 16V engine. All listed batteries are standard maintenance-free lead-acid types, which are compatible with the vehicle’s standard electrical system. Choosing a battery from this group will ensure reliable performance and straightforward installation without the need for system modifications.
VW Golf 4 – petrol engines:
- 1.6
- 1.6 16V
- 1.6 FSI
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 05 | 56 Ah 480 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC550 | 55 Ah 460 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Essentials HB 027 | 56 Ah 480 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP027 | 60 Ah 540 A | 243x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic C14 | 56 Ah 480 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
For Volkswagen Golf 4 models equipped with the 1.6, 1.6 16V, and 1.6 FSI petrol engines (produced between 1997 and 2005) and not fitted with Start-Stop technology, the battery requirements remain closely aligned with those outlined for the 1.4 16V engine, but with a slight emphasis on higher capacity and starting current. These engines are somewhat larger and may put greater demands on the battery, particularly in colder conditions or when additional electrical equipment is in use. As a result, batteries with capacities between 55 and 65 Ah and cold cranking amps (CCA) ranging from 460 to 640 A are recommended to ensure reliable starting performance and longer service life.
The batteries best suited for these Golf 4 petrol engines include reputable models from Bosch, Varta, Exide, Halfords, and Lucas. Series such as Bosch S3 (56 Ah, 480 A), S4 (60 Ah, 540 A), and S5 (63 Ah, 610 A), as well as Varta Black Dynamic (56 Ah, 480 A), Blue Dynamic (60 Ah, 540 A), and Silver Dynamic (63 Ah, 610 A), are all excellent fits. Exide’s Premium (64 Ah, 640 A), Excell (62 Ah, 540 A), and Classic (55 Ah, 460 A) options provide reliable alternatives, as do Halfords Standard (62 Ah, 550 A) and Essentials (56 Ah, 480 A), and Lucas Supreme (65 Ah, 640 A) and Premium (60 Ah, 540 A). All these batteries are designed with standard European dimensions around 242 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, with a layout 0 (positive terminal on the right) and type 1 round terminals, and B13 mounting—the correct fit for the Golf 4’s battery compartment.
These batteries are all standard maintenance-free lead-acid types, perfectly compatible with the vehicle’s original electrical system and offering straightforward, hassle-free installation. Opting for a battery from this group ensures strong cold-weather starting, dependable performance for daily driving, and sufficient reserve capacity for any additional electrical loads. Always confirm the battery’s dimensions and terminal layout before installation to guarantee a proper fit and optimal functionality in your Volkswagen Golf 4 with a 1.6, 1.6 16V, or 1.6 FSI petrol engine.
VW Golf 4 – petrol engines:
- 1.8
- 1.8 4motion
- 1.8 T
- 1.8 T GTI
- 2.0
- 2.0 4motion
- 2.3 V5
- 2.3 V5 4motion
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB620 | 62 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA640 | 64 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 027 | 62 Ah 550 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP027 | 60 Ah 540 A | 243x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS027 | 65 Ah 640 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic D15 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
For Volkswagen Golf 4 models equipped with the larger petrol engines—specifically the 2.0 4Motion, 2.3 V5 4Motion, 2.3 V5, 2.0, 1.8 T GTI, 1.8 T, 1.8 4Motion, and 1.8—all without Start-Stop technology, the requirements for the battery differ slightly from those of the smaller displacement engines. These engines produce more power and often come with additional electrical features or higher equipment levels, leading to a greater demand on the battery, especially during cold starts or when powering multiple accessories. As a result, a higher capacity battery with a greater cold cranking ability is strongly recommended to ensure consistent and robust operation.
The most suitable batteries for these engines are those with capacities ranging from 60 to 65 Ah and cold cranking amps (CCA) from 540 up to 640 A. The dimensions for these batteries are typically 242 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, with some models measuring up to 243 mm in length. The required terminal layout is the European standard 0, placing the positive terminal on the right-hand side, and terminal type 1, which uses standard round posts. Mounting type B13 remains the standard for secure installation in the Golf 4’s battery tray. All these specifications are critical to ensure a proper fit and safe electrical connection.
Recommended battery models for these higher-output petrol engines include Bosch S4 (S40 05, 60 Ah, 540 A), Bosch S5 (S50 05, 63 Ah, 610 A), Varta Blue Dynamic (D24, 60 Ah, 540 A), Varta Silver Dynamic (D15, 63 Ah, 610 A), Exide Premium (EA640, 64 Ah, 640 A), Exide Excell (EB620, 62 Ah, 540 A), Halfords Standard (HCB 027, 62 Ah, 550 A), Lucas Supreme (LS027, 65 Ah, 640 A), and Lucas Premium (LP027, 60 Ah, 540 A). All are maintenance-free, standard lead-acid batteries designed for reliable starting and dependable performance in demanding conditions. Choosing any of these batteries guarantees compatibility with the Golf 4’s electrical system, straightforward installation, and optimal functionality for all mentioned engine versions.
VW Golf 4 – petrol engines:
- 2.8 V6 4motion
- 3.2 R32 4motion
| 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 |
For the high-performance petrol engines in the Volkswagen Golf 4—specifically the 2.8 V6 4Motion and 3.2 R32 4Motion, both produced from 1997 to 2005 and not equipped with Start-Stop technology—the requirements for a suitable battery are even more demanding than for the smaller engines. These six-cylinder engines, especially with the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, require a battery with higher capacity and greater cold cranking power to ensure dependable starting and proper operation of all onboard electrical systems. Due to higher electrical loads and the increased demands of these powerful engines, a robust, maintenance-free lead-acid battery is essential for optimum performance and reliability.
The most appropriate batteries for the 2.8 V6 4Motion and 3.2 R32 4Motion are those with a capacity in the range of 74 to 78 Ah and a cold cranking amperage (CCA) between 680 and 780 A. The physical dimensions required for these batteries are 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, which matches the battery tray designed for these models. The terminal arrangement should be the European layout 0, with the positive terminal on the right when facing the terminals, and terminal type 1, which is the standard round post. The mounting base must be B13, ensuring secure installation in the Golf 4’s battery compartment.
Reputable options that meet these specifications include the Bosch S4 (S40 08, 74 Ah, 680 A), Bosch S5 (S50 08, 77 Ah, 780 A), Varta Blue Dynamic (E11, 74 Ah, 680 A), Varta Silver Dynamic (E44, 77 Ah, 780 A), Exide Premium (EA770, 77 Ah, 760 A), Exide Excell (EB740, 74 Ah, 680 A), Halfords Standard (HCB 096, 76 Ah, 680 A), Lucas Supreme (LS096, 78 Ah, 780 A), and Lucas Premium (LP096, 75 Ah, 680 A). All of these batteries are engineered to deliver the high power and reliability required for the Golf 4’s top-tier petrol engines, providing confident cold starts and stable operation of all vehicle systems, even in demanding conditions. Selecting a battery from this group guarantees a perfect fit and long-term dependable performance for the Golf 4 2.8 V6 4Motion and 3.2 R32 4Motion.
VW Golf 4 – diesel engines:
- 1.9 SDI
- 1.9 TD
- 1.9 TDI
- 1.9 TDI 4motion
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 08 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC700 | 70 Ah 640 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 Essentials HB 096 | 70 Ah 640 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 Black Dynamic E13 | 70 Ah 640 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 |
For Volkswagen Golf 4 models equipped with diesel engines such as the 1.9 SDI, 1.9 TD, 1.9 TDI, and 1.9 TDI 4Motion—all produced between 1997 and 2005 and not fitted with Start-Stop technology—the battery requirements are notably more demanding than those for their petrol counterparts. Diesel engines require a higher starting current due to their higher compression ratios, making it essential to select a battery with increased cold cranking amperage (CCA) and capacity to ensure reliable starting, especially in colder climates. The ideal battery for these engines should have a capacity in the range of 70 to 78 Ah and a CCA between 640 and 780 A for optimal performance under all conditions.
The physical dimensions required for these diesel engine batteries are 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, matching the battery tray of the Golf 4 diesel variants. The terminal layout should be the European standard layout 0 (positive terminal on the right when facing the terminals), and the terminal type is 1 (standard round posts). The mounting method is B13, which is standard for most European vehicles from this period, ensuring a secure and proper fit in the battery compartment.
Recommended batteries for the Volkswagen Golf 4 diesel engines include high-quality options from Bosch, Varta, Exide, Halfords, and Lucas. Suitable models include Bosch S3 (S30 08, 70 Ah, 640 A), S4 (S40 08, 74 Ah, 680 A), and S5 (S50 08, 77 Ah, 780 A); Varta Black Dynamic (E13, 70 Ah, 640 A), Blue Dynamic (E11, 74 Ah, 680 A), and Silver Dynamic (E44, 77 Ah, 780 A); Exide Premium (EA770, 77 Ah, 760 A), Excell (EB740, 74 Ah, 680 A), and Classic (EC700, 70 Ah, 640 A); as well as Halfords Standard (HCB 096, 76 Ah, 680 A) and Essentials (HB 096, 70 Ah, 640 A); and Lucas Supreme (LS096, 78 Ah, 780 A) and Premium (LP096, 75 Ah, 680 A). All listed batteries are maintenance-free lead-acid types, designed to provide the robust starting power and reliability needed by the Golf 4’s diesel engines, while ensuring compatibility with the original electrical system and straightforward installation. Selecting any of these batteries will guarantee dependable performance and long service life for your Volkswagen Golf 4 with any of the 1.9 diesel engine variants.
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your VW Golf , 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!