Selecting the right battery for the BMW 2 Series F45 Active Tourer (from 2014 onwards) is a crucial aspect of ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and longevity of your vehicle’s electrical system. The F45 Active Tourer, known for its premium build quality and advanced technologies, especially features like the Start-Stop system, which places specific demands on the car’s battery. Understanding these unique requirements will guide you in choosing the most suitable battery for your BMW, helping you avoid common pitfalls and ensuring your car remains dependable in all conditions.
First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that the BMW 2 Series F45 Active Tourer is equipped with engines that utilize the Start-Stop technology. This system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary and restarts it when you release the brake or engage the clutch, significantly improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. However, the Start-Stop function also places greater stress on the battery compared to traditional systems, necessitating the use of batteries with superior cyclic durability and rapid recharge capabilities.
In all versions of the F45 Active Tourer, including the petrol variants like the 218i and 225i as well as the diesel 218d, the manufacturer specifies the use of AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries. AGM batteries are specifically designed to withstand the frequent charge and discharge cycles associated with Start-Stop systems. Unlike conventional lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries use a special glass mat separator that absorbs the electrolyte, making them spill-proof and capable of delivering higher currents. This design also translates to better vibrations resistance, an important feature for modern vehicles packed with electronic equipment.
When it comes to battery capacity, the requirements differ slightly between the engine variants. The BMW 218i, powered by a petrol engine, typically requires a battery with a capacity between 70Ah and 72Ah, and a cold-cranking current (CCA) between 720A and 760A. For this engine, suitable AGM batteries include, as examples, models like Bosch S5A 08, Exide EK700, Exide EK720, Halfords AGM 096, Lucas LF096, and Varta E39. These are reference models that meet the electrical demands of the vehicle and fit within the specified physical and performance parameters.
For the more powerful petrol engine in the 225i and the diesel 218d, BMW recommends a slightly larger battery, with a capacity in the range of 80Ah to 82Ah and a CCA of around 800A. This ensures that the battery can handle not just the initial startup but also the repeated restarts and the higher electrical consumption that comes with additional accessories and features. Again, examples of AGM batteries suited for these engines include Bosch S5A 11, Exide EK800, Exide EK820, Halfords AGM 115, Lucas LF115, and Varta F21. These models are widely available and recognized for their quality and reliability, but always ensure that the specific variant matches your vehicle’s requirements before making a purchase.
One interesting fact about AGM batteries is their ability to recover more quickly after deep discharges, which is particularly beneficial for vehicles with Start-Stop systems and frequent short trips. This technology also supports advanced energy management systems in modern BMWs, helping to power not just the engine start but also the growing number of comfort and safety features, such as heated seats, advanced infotainment, and driver assistance systems.
It’s also important to remember that replacing the battery in a BMW F45 Active Tourer often requires registering the new battery with the vehicle’s onboard computer. This procedure ensures the car’s energy management system recognizes the new battery and adjusts the charging strategy accordingly. Skipping this step can lead to reduced battery life or unexpected electrical issues.
In summary, for the BMW 2 Series F45 Active Tourer, always choose a high-quality AGM battery, carefully matching its specifications to your engine variant. Refer to example models like those listed above, but always double-check fitment and compatibility. Investing in the correct battery not only guarantees seamless operation of the Start-Stop system but also supports the full range of your BMW’s modern features, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.
BMW 2 Series in version F45 Active Tourer is produced from 2014. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for BMW 2 Series (2014-):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
BMW 2 Series F45 Active Tourer – petrol engines:
- 218 i – 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 |
BMW 2 Series F45 Active Tourer – petrol engines:
- 225 i – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK800 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK820 | 82 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
BMW 2 Series F45 Active Tourer – diesel engines:
- 218 d – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK800 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK820 | 82 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your BMW 2 Series , 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!