The BMW 5 Series F10, produced from 2010 to 2017, is a luxury sedan offering a wide range of engines, each requiring a properly selected battery. Below are detailed guidelines to help you choose the right battery for this vehicle.
Smaller petrol engines, such as the 530i or 535i xDrive, use AGM batteries with a capacity of 80–82 Ah and a starting current of 800 A. Examples of suitable models include Bosch S5A 11, Exide EK800, and Varta F21. AGM batteries ensure stable operation in cars equipped with advanced electrical systems like Start-Stop.
Larger petrol units, including the 550i xDrive and ActiveHybrid, require batteries with higher capacities of 95–96 Ah and a starting current of 850 A. In such cases, Bosch S5A 13, Exide EK950, or Varta G14 are excellent options. Choosing a high-performance battery is essential, particularly for hybrid versions that demand advanced power supply systems.
For diesel engines like the 525d or 530d, AGM batteries with a capacity of 95–96 Ah and a starting current of 850 A are also necessary. The same models as for larger petrol units will work well, such as Exide EK960 or Lucas LF017. On the other hand, sporty versions like the M550d xDrive may require even more efficient batteries, especially if the car heavily utilizes electric functions.
Fun fact: The BMW F10 was one of the first 5 Series models to extensively employ Start-Stop systems and energy recuperation. This means that AGM batteries are not just a choice but a necessity, providing longer lifespan and resistance to frequent charging cycles.
BMW 5 Series in version F10 was produced in the years 2010 – 2017. We invite you to a list of batteries matching individual engine versions.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for BMW 5 Series (2010-2017):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
BMW 5 Series F10 – petrol engines:
- 530 i
- 535 i xDrive – 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 5 Series F10 – petrol engines:
- 520 i – with Start-Stop
- 523 i
- 528 i (L4 2.0L) – with Start-Stop
- 528 i (L6 3.0L)
- 528 i xDrive – with Start-Stop
- 535 i
- 550 i
- 550 i (330kW) – with Start-Stop
- 550 i xDrive – with Start-Stop
- 550 i xDrive (300kW)
- ActiveHybrid – 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 |
BMW 5 Series F10 – petrol engines:
- M – with Start-Stop
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S5 AGM S5A 15 | 105 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK1050 | 105 Ah 950 A | 392x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide AGM EK1060 | 106 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Fusion AGM LF020 | 105 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic AGM H15 | 105 Ah 950 A | 393x175x190 mm | More |
BMW 5 Series F10 – diesel engines:
- 518 d – with Start-Stop
- 520 d – with Start-Stop
- 520 d xDrive – with Start-Stop
- 525 d – with Start-Stop
- 525 d (L6 3.0L)
- 525 d xDrive – with Start-Stop
- 530 d – with Start-Stop
- 530 d – with Start-Stop
- 530 d xDrive – with Start-Stop
- 535 d
- 535 d – with Start-Stop
- 535 d xDrive – with Start-Stop
- M 550 d xDrive
| 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 |
FAQ – BMW 5 Series battery
What type of battery does the BMW 5 Series F10 (2010-2017) require?
The BMW 5 Series F10 (2010-2017) typically requires an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery), depending on the specific model and whether it is equipped with Start-Stop technology. Always check your owner’s manual or consult a specialist to select the correct battery type.
What is the recommended battery size for the BMW 5 Series F10?
The most common battery sizes for the BMW 5 Series F10 are 019 (L5), 020 (L5), and sometimes 110 (L2), depending on the engine and model variant. It is important to match the battery’s dimensions, terminal layout, and capacity to your specific vehicle requirements.
How do I know if my BMW 5 Series F10 battery needs to be replaced?
Signs that your BMW 5 Series F10 battery needs replacing include slow engine cranking, warning lights on the dashboard, loss of electrical power, or the battery struggling to hold a charge. If your car’s electronics malfunction or you notice a decrease in performance, it may be time for a new battery.
Does the BMW 5 Series F10 battery need to be registered after replacement?
Yes, after replacing the battery in a BMW 5 Series F10, it is important to register the new battery with the vehicle’s onboard computer using a suitable diagnostic tool. This ensures optimal charging and battery life, and prevents potential electrical issues.
How long does a car battery typically last in a BMW 5 Series F10?
On average, a car battery in the BMW 5 Series F10 will last between 4 and 6 years, depending on driving habits, climate, and whether the vehicle is equipped with Start-Stop technology. Regular maintenance and avoiding deep discharges can help extend battery life.
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your BMW 5 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!