Mercedes S-Class W220 (1998-2005) – batteries




Mercedes-Benz S-Class in version W220 was produced in the years 1998 – 2005. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.

Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Mercedes-Benz S-Class (1998-2005):

LayoutTerminal typesBase hold-down
0 – positive on the right side1B13

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 – petrol engines:
  • S 280
  • S 320
  • S 350
  • S 350 4-matic
  • S 430
  • S 430 4-matic
  • S 500
  • S 500 4-matic
  • S 55 AMG
  • S 55 AMG Kompressor
  • S 600
  • S 63 AMG
  • S 65 AMG

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 13
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 13
100 Ah
830 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB950
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA1000
100 Ah
900 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 019
95 Ah
850 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP019
95 Ah
800 A
354x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS019
100 Ah
850 A
354x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
G3
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
H3
100 Ah
830 A
353x175x190 mmMore
For the S 280, S 320, S 350 petrol engines and others from the above list, we select batteries measuring 352x175x190 mm, 353x175x190 mm or 354x175x190 mm with a capacity exceeding 92 Ah. The weakest of these is the battery Bosch S4 S40 13 which capacity is 95 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 800 A. The most powerful battery is Exide Premium EA1000 of a capacity 100Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 900 A. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 – diesel engines:
  • S 320 CDI
  • S 400 CDI

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S4
S40 13
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 13
100 Ah
830 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB950
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA1000
100 Ah
900 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 019
95 Ah
850 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP019
95 Ah
800 A
354x175x190 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS019
100 Ah
850 A
354x175x190 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
G3
95 Ah
800 A
353x175x190 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
H3
100 Ah
830 A
353x175x190 mmMore
For the Mercedes-Benz S-Class W220 with S 320 CDI or S 400 CDI diesel engines, we recommend batteries sized 352x175x190 mm, 353x175x190 mm or 354x175x190 mm, with a minimum capacity of 92 Ah. The most basic battery of this set is Bosch S4 S40 13 of a capacity 95Ah and 800A Cold Cranking Amps, the battery with the biggest capacity is Exide Premium EA1000 of a capacity 100 Ah, having 900A Cold Cranking Amps. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

FAQ – Mercedes-Benz S-Class battery

What is the correct battery size for a Mercedes S-Class W220 (1998-2005)?

The recommended battery size for the Mercedes S-Class W220 (1998-2005) is typically the 019 (also known as H9 or L5) battery, which offers the right dimensions and power output for this luxury sedan. Always check your vehicle’s manual or existing battery to confirm the exact size required.

Which battery types are suitable for the Mercedes S-Class W220?

The Mercedes S-Class W220 works best with high-performance AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) types, as these provide the necessary power for advanced electronics and start-stop technology. However, standard lead-acid batteries can also be used if your vehicle does not have advanced electrical demands.

How do I know if my S-Class W220 battery needs replacement?

Common signs that your Mercedes S-Class W220 battery may need replacement include slow engine cranking, dashboard warning lights, dim headlights, and issues with electrical systems. If your car struggles to start or if the battery is older than 4-5 years, it’s advisable to have it tested or replaced.

Can I replace the battery in my Mercedes S-Class W220 myself?

Yes, you can replace the battery yourself if you have basic mechanical skills. However, due to the advanced electronics in the W220, it is important to maintain the power supply during replacement to avoid resetting vehicle systems. Always disconnect the negative terminal first and consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

What is the average lifespan of a Mercedes S-Class W220 battery?

The average lifespan of a battery in a Mercedes S-Class W220 is typically between 4 and 6 years, depending on driving conditions, climate, battery quality, and vehicle usage. Regular maintenance and ensuring the battery is kept fully charged will help maximize its service life.

Why does the Mercedes S-Class W220 sometimes have two batteries?

Some versions of the Mercedes S-Class W220 are equipped with two batteries: a main starter battery and an auxiliary battery. The main battery powers the engine and most electrical systems, while the auxiliary battery supports features such as the SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system or other onboard electronics.


If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Mercedes-Benz S-Class , 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!

See also information about other cars of this manufacturer

Mercedes-Benz A-Class I (W168) (1997-2004) battery
Mercedes-Benz A-Class II (W169) (2004-2012) battery
Mercedes-Benz B-Class W245 (2005-2011) battery
Mercedes-Benz B-Class W246 (2011-) battery
Mercedes-Benz C-Class I (W202) (1993-2000) battery
Mercedes-Benz C-Class II (W203) (2000-2007) battery
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 (2007-2014) battery
Mercedes-Benz Citan W415 (2012-) battery
Mercedes-Benz CLA I (C117) (2013-) battery
Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class CL203 (2008-2010) battery
Mercedes-Benz CLK W208 (1997-2003) battery
Mercedes-Benz CLK W209 (2002-2009) battery
Mercedes-Benz CLS C218 (2011-) battery
Mercedes-Benz CLS C219 (2004-2010) battery
Mercedes-Benz E-Class I (W124) (1993-1995) battery
Mercedes-Benz E-Class II (W210) (1995-2002) battery
Mercedes-Benz E-Class III (W211) (2002-2008) battery
Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212 (2009-2016) battery
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X164 (2006-2012) battery
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class X166 (2012-) battery
Mercedes-Benz GLA I (X156) (2013-2019) battery
Mercedes-Benz ML W163 (1997-2005) battery
Mercedes-Benz ML W164 (2005-2011) battery
Mercedes-Benz ML W166 (2011-2015) battery
Mercedes-Benz S-Class W221 (2005-2013) battery
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe C140 (1992-1999) battery
Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe C215 (1999-2006) battery
Mercedes-Benz SL R129 (1989-2001) battery
Mercedes-Benz SL R230 (2001-2012) battery
Mercedes-Benz SL R231 (2012-) battery
Mercedes-Benz SLK R170 (1996-2004) battery
Mercedes-Benz SLK R171 (2004-2011) battery
Mercedes-Benz SLK R172 (2011-) battery
Mercedes-Benz V-Class (638/2) (1996-2003) battery
Mercedes-Benz V-Class (W447) (2014-) battery
Mercedes-Benz Viano (W639) (2003-2010) battery


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