Choosing the right battery for the BMW 3 Series E90 (2005-2011) depends on several factors such as engine type, the presence of the Start-Stop system, and the battery’s capacity. It’s important to check your vehicle’s specifications before purchasing a new battery. Generally, for petrol models without the Start-Stop system, lead-acid batteries with a capacity ranging from 60 to 82 Ah and a cranking current between 540 and 800 A are recommended. Example suitable models include Bosch S40 05, Exide EA640, or Varta D15.
For vehicles with the Start-Stop system, more advanced AGM batteries are required to withstand frequent engine shut-offs and starts. Examples include Bosch S5A 08, Exide EK700, or Varta E39. AGM batteries are more durable when it comes to charge and discharge cycles, which is crucial for Start-Stop systems.
It’s also important to remember that some engine versions, especially high-powered ones, may require batteries with greater capacity and cranking power. For example, 330i and 335i models with engines over 200 kW often require batteries with a capacity of 74-82 Ah, both AGM and lead-acid types. In this case, good options would be batteries like Exide EK800, Bosch S5A 11, or Varta F21.
An interesting fact is that AGM batteries, thanks to their design, are more resistant to shocks and vibrations, which can be significant for vehicles with a more sporty driving profile. Additionally, choosing the right battery not only ensures easy engine startup but also ensures the proper functioning of a car’s electronics, especially in newer models where these systems play a key role.
BMW 3 Series in version E90 was produced in the years 2005 – 2011. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for BMW 3 Series (2005-2011):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
BMW 3 Series E90 – petrol engines:
- 316 i (90 kW)
- 318 i (95 kW)
- 320 i (110 kW)
- 320 si (127 kW)
| 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 the BMW 3 Series E90 models produced between 2005 and 2011, specifically with petrol engines such as the 318i (95 kW) without Start-Stop, 316i (90 kW) without Start-Stop, 320si (127 kW) without Start-Stop, and 320i (110 kW) without Start-Stop, a particular group of batteries is recommended to ensure reliable performance and compatibility. These engines do not feature Start-Stop systems, which means that standard lead-acid batteries are sufficient and there is no need for AGM or EFB technologies typically required for vehicles with energy recuperation systems.
The most suitable batteries for these engine variants are those with capacities ranging from 60 to 65 Ah and cold cranking currents between 540 and 640 A. The dimensions of these batteries are standardized at approximately 242-243 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, fitting perfectly in the battery compartment of E90 petrol models. All recommended batteries use the B13 mounting system, have terminal layout 0 (positive on the right), and come with standard terminal types, ensuring easy installation and secure fitment in the vehicle.
Notable battery models that fit these criteria include Bosch S4 S40 05 and S5 S50 05, Varta Blue Dynamic D24 and Silver Dynamic D15, Exide Premium EA640 and Excell EB620, as well as offerings from Halfords (HCB 027) and Lucas (Supreme LS027 and Premium LP027). These batteries are designed for standard mounting and are built to provide reliable starting power, long service life, and consistent performance in everyday driving conditions typical for these petrol engine BMW E90 vehicles.
BMW 3 Series E90 – petrol engines:
- 318 i (105 kW)
- 320 i (125 kW)
- 325 i (2.5 L)
- 325 i (3.0 L)
- 325 xi (2.5 L)
- 330 i (200 kW)
- 330 xi (200 kW)
| 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 BMW 3 Series E90 produced from 2005 to 2011, when considering the petrol engines 318i (105 kW) without Start-Stop, 320i (125 kW) without Start-Stop, 325i (2.5 L and 3.0 L) without Start-Stop, 325xi (2.5 L) without Start-Stop, 330i (200 kW) without Start-Stop, and 330xi (200 kW) without Start-Stop, a different group of batteries is appropriate due to the higher power demand and engine displacement. These engines, while also not equipped with Start-Stop systems, generally require larger capacity batteries to ensure optimal starting performance and electrical system stability.
The ideal batteries for these engine variants are those with capacities in the range of 74 to 78 Ah and cold cranking currents between 680 and 780 A. The physical dimensions for these batteries are standardized at 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, which matches the battery tray used in these E90 petrol models with larger engines. As with the previously mentioned variants, all batteries use the B13 mounting system, feature terminal layout 0 (positive on the right), and standard terminal types for straightforward installation.
Recommended battery models for these engines include Bosch S4 S40 08 and S5 S50 08, Varta Blue Dynamic E11 and Silver Dynamic E44, Exide Premium EA770 and Excell EB740, as well as products from Halfords (HCB 096) and Lucas (Supreme LS096 and Premium LP096). These batteries are specifically designed to deliver the higher starting currents required by larger displacement engines and to support the electrical demands of more comprehensively equipped vehicles. They provide robust reliability, long service intervals, and a secure fit for all petrol E90s with the engines listed above, ensuring consistent performance in all weather and driving conditions.
BMW 3 Series E90 – petrol engines:
- 318 i (105 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 320 i (125 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 325 i (3.0 L) – 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 Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 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 |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 equipped with petrol engines that feature Start-Stop technology—specifically the 320i (125 kW) Start-Stop, 318i (105 kW) Start-Stop, and 325i (3.0 L) Start-Stop—battery requirements are more demanding than for standard models. These engines rely on advanced Start-Stop systems, which place greater strain on the battery due to frequent engine restarts and increased electrical loads during city driving. For this reason, only AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are recommended, as they are designed to handle deep cycling, higher charge acceptance, and the intensive operation associated with Start-Stop functionality.
The most suitable AGM batteries for these engine variants offer capacities between 70 and 72 Ah, with cold cranking amps (CCA) of 720 to 760 A. The physical dimensions are standardized at 278 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, perfectly fitting the designated battery compartment in the E90. All recommended batteries utilize the B13 mounting system, have terminal layout 0 (positive on the right), and feature standard terminal types for seamless installation and secure electrical connectivity.
Among the top choices for these Start-Stop petrol engines are the Bosch S5 AGM S5A 08, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM E39, Exide AGM EK700 and EK720, Halfords Advanced AGM 096 and Standard AGM 096, and Lucas Fusion AGM LF096. These batteries not only provide the necessary durability and performance for Start-Stop operation but are also engineered for long service life and consistent power delivery in demanding urban driving conditions. Selecting one of these AGM batteries ensures that the advanced Start-Stop system in your BMW E90 petrol engine will function reliably, offering optimal starting power and supporting all electronic systems efficiently.
BMW 3 Series E90 – petrol engines:
- M3 4.0
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 11 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 11 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB800 | 80 Ah 640 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA900 | 90 Ah 720 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP115 | 80 Ah 670 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic F16 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic F19 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 M3 models produced from 2007 to 2013, equipped with the 4.0-liter petrol engine and without Start-Stop technology, battery requirements are even more specific due to the high-performance nature of the S65 engine. This engine demands a robust and high-capacity battery to ensure reliable cold starts and stable power supply to the vehicle’s advanced electronic systems and luxury features. Unlike engines with Start-Stop, the M3 4.0 does not require AGM or EFB batteries, so high-quality standard lead-acid batteries are the preferred choice, provided they meet the capacity and current requirements.
The ideal batteries for the BMW E90 M3 4.0 are those with capacities ranging from 80 to 90 Ah and cold cranking currents (CCA) between 640 and 800 A. The physical size of these batteries is standardized at approximately 315 to 317 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, ensuring a perfect fit in the designated battery compartment for M3 variants. All listed batteries use the B13 mounting system, feature terminal layout 0 (positive terminal on the right), and are equipped with standard terminal types for straightforward installation and secure electrical connections.
Recommended battery models for the E90 M3 4.0 include the Bosch S5 S50 11 (85 Ah, 800 A), Bosch S4 S40 11 (80 Ah, 740 A), Varta Blue Dynamic F16 (80 Ah, 740 A), Varta Silver Dynamic F19 (85 Ah, 800 A), Exide Premium EA900 (90 Ah, 720 A), Exide Excell EB800 (80 Ah, 640 A), and Lucas Premium LP115 (80 Ah, 670 A). These batteries are engineered for standard mounting and are designed to deliver the high starting power and electrical reliability required by the high-performance M3 engine, even under challenging conditions. Choosing a battery from this group will ensure consistent performance, optimal power delivery, and long service life, perfectly matching the demanding requirements of the BMW E90 M3 4.0 without Start-Stop.
BMW 3 Series E90 – petrol engines:
- 325 i xDrive (3.0 L) – with Start-Stop
- 330 i (200 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 330 xi (200 kW) – 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 |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 petrol engines equipped with Start-Stop technology and higher displacement—specifically the 325i xDrive (3.0 L) Start-Stop, 330i (200 kW) Start-Stop, and 330xi (200 kW) Start-Stop—the battery requirements are even more demanding due to both the advanced Start-Stop system and the increased power needs of these larger engines. These models require only AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries, as conventional lead-acid types are not suitable for the deep cycling and rapid recharge requirements imposed by frequent engine restarts and higher electrical loads.
The most compatible batteries for these engines are high-capacity AGM models with a minimum of 80 Ah and a cold cranking current of 800 A, ensuring reliable engine starts and stable electrical support in all conditions. The physical dimensions for these batteries are standardized at around 315 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, which fits precisely into the battery tray of the E90 models with these specific engines. The B13 mounting system is used across all recommended batteries, along with terminal layout 0 (positive on the right) and standard terminal types, which guarantees both secure installation and straightforward replacement.
Leading battery options that fulfill these requirements include the Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21, Exide AGM EK800 and EK820, Lucas Fusion AGM LF115, and Halfords Advanced AGM 115. Each of these models provides the deep discharge resilience and high charge acceptance necessary for Start-Stop functionality, as well as the robust cranking power required by the larger six-cylinder engines. By choosing one of these AGM batteries, you ensure not only seamless Start-Stop operation but also optimal performance of all vehicle electronics, even during intensive urban driving or harsh weather conditions.
BMW 3 Series E90 – petrol engines:
- 330 i (190 kW)
- 330 i xDrive (200 kW)
- 330 xi (190 kW)
- 335 i (225 kW)
- 335 i xDrive (225 kW)
| 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 |
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB740 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA770 | 77 Ah 760 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK800 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK820 | 82 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 096 | 76 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP096 | 75 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS096 | 78 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF115 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic E11 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic E44 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21 | 80 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 equipped with petrol engines such as the 335i xDrive (225 kW) without Start-Stop, 335i (225 kW) without Start-Stop, 330xi (190 kW) without Start-Stop, 330i (190 kW) without Start-Stop, and 330i xDrive (200 kW) without Start-Stop, battery selection must take into account the higher power output and increased electrical demands of these models. These engines, while lacking Start-Stop systems, are positioned at the top end of the E90’s petrol lineup, and as such, require batteries with greater capacity and cranking power to ensure reliable starting and stable operation of all onboard systems.
For these specific engines, the most suitable batteries are those with a capacity of 80 to 82 Ah and a cold cranking current of 800 A. The physical size of these batteries corresponds to the L4 (also known as H7/LB4) case standard, with dimensions of approximately 315 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height. This size ensures a perfect fit in the factory battery compartment used for these high-output E90 variants. All listed batteries feature the B13 mounting system, terminal layout 0 (positive terminal on the right), and standard terminal types, providing straightforward installation and secure electrical connections.
Within this category, you will find both AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology batteries and high-capacity standard lead-acid models. AGM batteries, such as the Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21, Exide AGM EK800 and EK820, Lucas Fusion AGM LF115, and Halfords Advanced AGM 115, offer enhanced resistance to deep discharge and improved charge acceptance, which can be advantageous if the vehicle is heavily equipped with electronic accessories or frequently used in short-trip urban driving. However, both AGM and standard batteries with the correct specifications and case size are acceptable for these engines, as none of them are fitted with Start-Stop systems.
It is important to note that, within these dimensions and technical parameters, there may be minor differences between available batteries, such as slight variations in case length (e.g., 315 mm vs. 317 mm) or capacity (80 Ah vs. 82 Ah), but these differences are within the accepted range for the L4/H7/LB4 battery case and do not affect compatibility. Additionally, while some batteries in this group are AGM types and others are standard, either can be installed as long as they match the original battery’s technology and specifications. Since BMW may have fitted different batteries even within the same engine variant, and both types of mounting or case standards can be used, it is always best to check the exact parameters and dimensions of the battery currently installed in your vehicle and choose a new battery that closely matches these specifications for optimal performance and fitment.
BMW 3 Series E90 – diesel engines:
- 318 d
- 320 d
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 11 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 11 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB800 | 80 Ah 640 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA900 | 90 Ah 720 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP115 | 80 Ah 670 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic F16 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic F19 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 equipped with the 318d and 320d diesel engines produced from 2005 to 2011, both without Start-Stop technology, battery selection is guided by the unique demands of these four-cylinder diesel powertrains. These engines, while not featuring the additional electrical stresses of Start-Stop systems, still require robust batteries capable of delivering high cold cranking power, especially in colder climates where diesel engines can be more challenging to start. As with other E90 models without Start-Stop, standard lead-acid batteries are entirely sufficient and there is no need to opt for AGM or EFB batteries.
The most suitable batteries for the 318d and 320d engines are those within the higher capacity range of 80 to 90 Ah, providing cold cranking currents from 640 to 800 A. These specifications ensure reliable cold start performance and consistent power delivery to the vehicle’s electrical system, which is particularly important for diesel variants due to their higher compression ratios. The physical dimensions for compatible batteries are standardized at approximately 315 to 317 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, matching the battery tray found in the E90 diesel engine bay. All recommended batteries feature the B13 mounting system, terminal layout 0 (positive terminal on the right), and standard terminal types, ensuring straightforward, secure installation.
Among the recommended options for these diesel engines are the Bosch S5 S50 11 (85 Ah, 800 A) and S4 S40 11 (80 Ah, 740 A), Varta Blue Dynamic F16 (80 Ah, 740 A) and Silver Dynamic F19 (85 Ah, 800 A), Exide Premium EA900 (90 Ah, 720 A) and Excell EB800 (80 Ah, 640 A), as well as the Lucas Premium LP115 (80 Ah, 670 A). Each of these batteries is engineered to provide the high starting currents and long-term durability required by the E90 diesel variants, supporting both basic and well-equipped models. Their size and technical characteristics ensure a perfect fit in the battery compartment and compatibility with the vehicle’s original electrical system, making them a reliable choice for owners of the 318d and 320d E90 diesels without Start-Stop.
BMW 3 Series E90 – diesel engines:
- 320 d – with Start-Stop
- 320 d xDrive (Manual) – with Start-Stop
- 320 xd – 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 |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 diesel engines equipped with Start-Stop systems—specifically the 320d Start-Stop, 320xd Start-Stop, and 320d xDrive (Manual) Start-Stop, manufactured between 2005 and 2011—a distinct group of batteries is required to meet the advanced demands of these models. The Start-Stop technology in these diesel variants subjects the battery to frequent engine restarts and prolonged periods of electrical load during city driving, which standard lead-acid batteries are not designed to handle. As a result, only AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries are recommended for these engines to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and safety.
The ideal AGM batteries for these diesel Start-Stop variants offer a capacity of 80 to 82 Ah and a cold cranking current of 800 A. The dimensions are standardized at 315 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, or in some cases, 317 mm in length, ensuring a perfect fit within the E90’s battery compartment. All recommended models utilize the B13 mounting system, have terminal layout 0 (positive terminal on the right), and are equipped with standard terminal types for easy and secure installation.
Among the best options for these engines are the Bosch S5 AGM S5A 11, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM F21, Exide AGM EK800 and EK820, Lucas Fusion AGM LF115, and Halfords Advanced AGM 115. These batteries are engineered to handle the deep cycling, rapid recharge, and higher charge acceptance required by the Start-Stop system. Their robust construction ensures a long service life, consistent power delivery, and reliable cold starting even in harsh weather, meeting the specific needs of E90 diesel owners with Start-Stop technology. Choosing any of these AGM batteries guarantees the efficient operation of both the engine’s Start-Stop system and all onboard electronic systems, making them the most suitable and future-proof choice for these advanced diesel variants.
BMW 3 Series E90 – diesel engines:
- 325 d (145 kW)
- 330 d
- 330 xd
- 335 d
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 13 | 95 Ah 800 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 13 | 100 Ah 830 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB950 | 95 Ah 800 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA1000 | 100 Ah 900 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 019 | 95 Ah 850 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP019 | 95 Ah 800 A | 354x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS019 | 100 Ah 850 A | 354x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic G3 | 95 Ah 800 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic H3 | 100 Ah 830 A | 353x175x190 mm | More |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 diesel engines 335d, 330xd, 330d, and 325d (145 kW)—all without Start-Stop technology and produced between 2005 and 2011—a specific group of high-capacity standard lead-acid batteries is recommended due to the substantial power requirements of these six-cylinder diesel engines. These engines demand batteries with greater cranking power and reserve capacity, as cold starts and the operation of advanced electrical systems place significant loads on the battery, especially during winter or in vehicles equipped with numerous comfort and safety features.
The most compatible batteries for these diesel variants are those with capacities ranging from 95 to 100 Ah and cold cranking currents (CCA) between 800 and 900 A. The physical dimensions are standardized at approximately 353 to 354 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, which precisely matches the battery compartment found in these E90 diesel models. All recommended batteries are designed for the B13 mounting system, feature terminal layout 0 (positive terminal on the right), and come equipped with standard terminal types, ensuring straightforward and secure installation in the vehicle.
Notable battery options suitable for the 335d, 330xd, 330d, and 325d (145 kW) include the Bosch S4 S40 13 (95 Ah, 800 A) and S5 S50 13 (100 Ah, 830 A), Varta Blue Dynamic G3 (95 Ah, 800 A) and Silver Dynamic H3 (100 Ah, 830 A), Exide Premium EA1000 (100 Ah, 900 A) and Excell EB950 (95 Ah, 800 A), as well as the Halfords HCB 019 (95 Ah, 850 A), Lucas Supreme LS019 (100 Ah, 850 A), and Lucas Premium LP019 (95 Ah, 800 A). Each of these batteries offers the high starting performance and durability necessary for powerful six-cylinder diesels, guaranteeing reliable operation in all seasons and under demanding conditions. Their size and electrical characteristics ensure perfect compatibility with the original battery tray and electrical connections, making them the optimal choice for these specific BMW E90 diesel engines without Start-Stop systems.
BMW 3 Series E90 – diesel engines:
- 316 d – with Start-Stop
- 318 d – with Start-Stop
- 320 d xDrive (Automatic) – with Start-Stop
- 325 d (150 kW) – with Start-Stop
- 330 d – with Start-Stop
- 330 d xDrive – with Start-Stop
- 330 xd – with Start-Stop
- 335 d – 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 |
For the BMW 3 Series E90 models equipped with diesel engines featuring Start-Stop technology—specifically the 325d (150 kW) Start-Stop, 320d xDrive (Automatic) Start-Stop, 318d Start-Stop, 330d Start-Stop, 330xd Start-Stop, 330d xDrive Start-Stop, 335d Start-Stop, and 316d Start-Stop—battery selection is especially important due to the increased demands imposed by the Start-Stop system and the high compression characteristics of modern diesel engines. These engines require AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries, as standard lead-acid types do not offer the deep cycling durability or rapid recharge capability necessary for frequent engine restarts, high accessory loads, and the demands of city driving.
The optimal batteries for these Start-Stop diesel variants are AGM models with capacities ranging from 95 to 96 Ah and cold cranking currents of 850 A. The physical dimensions are standardized at 353 mm in length, 175 mm in width, and 190 mm in height, ensuring a precise fit in the E90’s battery compartment. All recommended batteries feature the B13 mounting system, terminal layout 0 (positive terminal on the right), and standard terminal types, which guarantee both compatibility with the original battery setup and straightforward installation or replacement.
Leading battery options for these engines include the Bosch S5 AGM S5A 13, Varta Silver Dynamic AGM G14, Exide AGM EK950 and EK960, Halfords Advanced AGM 019, and Lucas Fusion AGM LF017. Each of these batteries provides the robust deep cycling performance, fast recharge capability, and high cold cranking power required by both the Start-Stop system and the advanced diesel engines used in these E90 variants. Their construction and specifications ensure the reliable operation of all vehicle electronics, consistent starting even in low temperatures, and a long service life, even under the frequent cycling and heavy loads typical of modern diesel BMWs with Start-Stop. Choosing a battery from this group is essential for maintaining optimal performance, system reliability, and driving comfort in your E90 diesel Start-Stop model.
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your BMW 3 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!