Opel Combo B (1994-2001) – batteries


When considering the appropriate battery for the Opel Combo B produced between 1994 and 2001, it’s vital to take into account several key technical parameters to ensure reliable performance and longevity. The battery requirements for this vehicle vary depending on the engine type and fuel system, but there are some universal aspects that every owner should be aware of before making a decision. Choosing the right battery is not just about matching the physical size, but also ensuring the correct electrical specifications suited to your engine’s demands. In this summary, we’ll explore which battery is suitable for each engine variant, offer insights into compatible technologies, and provide some interesting facts to help you make an informed choice.

For the Opel Combo B equipped with petrol engines, specifically the 1.2, 1.4, and 1.4 16V variants, the battery selection is largely similar. These engines do not feature a Start-Stop system, which means they do not require advanced battery technologies like AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery). Instead, traditional lead-acid batteries are the standard choice, known for their balance of affordability and effectiveness in conventional vehicles. For these particular petrol models, the suitable battery capacity ranges from 41 to 52 ampere-hours (Ah), with a cold cranking amperage (CCA) between 360 and 520 amps, which is sufficient to provide reliable starting power, even in colder climates.

When selecting a battery for these petrol engines, it’s crucial to pay attention to the physical dimensions, especially the height. The Opel Combo B requires a battery with a reduced height of 175mm, which ensures the battery fits securely within the dedicated compartment and avoids any issues with the vehicle’s hood clearance or mounting brackets. Failing to adhere to this height requirement could result in improper installation or even potential damage. As an example, compatible battery models for these engines include Bosch S30 01, Bosch S40 01, Bosch S50 01, Exide EA472, Exide EB442, Exide EC412, Halfords HB 063, Halfords HCB 063, Lucas LP063, Lucas LS063, Varta A17, Varta B18, and Varta C6. It is worth emphasizing that these are sample, matching models, and similar batteries from other reputable brands may also be suitable as long as they meet the necessary specifications.

For those driving the diesel-powered Opel Combo B, specifically the 1.7 D engine, the demands on the battery are slightly greater due to the higher compression ratios and the need for more robust starting power. Diesel engines generally require batteries with larger capacities and higher cold cranking currents to cope with greater resistance during ignition, especially on cold mornings. For the 1.7 D, an appropriate battery would have a capacity in the range of 53 to 62 Ah and a cold cranking current between 480 and 600 amps. Just like with the petrol engines, the reduced height of 175mm remains a necessary requirement for proper fitment. For illustrative purposes, fitting models include Bosch S30 04, Bosch S40 04, Bosch S50 04, Exide EA612, Exide EB602, Exide EC542, Halfords HB 075, Halfords HCB 075, Lucas LP065, Lucas LP075, Lucas LS075, Varta C11, Varta D21, and Varta D59. Again, these are typical examples, and similar batteries that match the stated criteria can also be chosen.

An interesting aspect of choosing a car battery is how the technology has evolved over the years. Though the Opel Combo B relies on tried-and-true lead-acid batteries, modern developments in battery technology have led to products with improved vibration resistance, longer life cycles, and better performance in extreme temperatures. For those who often use their vehicles in challenging conditions or make frequent short trips, opting for a battery from a premium line, even within the standard lead-acid category, can offer tangible benefits in the long run.

It’s also worth noting that a battery’s performance and lifespan are not solely determined by the initial selection. Regular maintenance, such as checking terminal cleanliness, ensuring secure mounting, and monitoring voltage levels, can greatly extend the battery’s useful life. Furthermore, if you plan to install additional electrical accessories, such as upgraded sound systems or auxiliary heating, it’s prudent to select a battery with slightly higher specifications to accommodate the extra load without sacrificing reliability.

In conclusion, when choosing a battery for the Opel Combo B from 1994 to 2001, focus on selecting a lead-acid type with the correct capacity and cold cranking performance, always confirming the reduced height of 175mm for optimal fit. While there are many suitable options on the market, referencing sample models like those from Bosch, Exide, Halfords, Lucas, and Varta can be helpful when discussing choices with suppliers. Keeping these factors in mind will ensure your Opel Combo B remains dependable for years to come.

Opel Combo in version B was produced in the years 1994 – 2001. Below we present the specifications of batteries suitable for specific engines.

Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Opel Combo (1994-2001):

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

Opel Combo B – petrol engines:
  • 1.2
  • 1.4
  • 1.4 16V

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S3
S30 01
41 Ah
360 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S4
S40 01
44 Ah
440 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 01
52 Ah
520 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Exide Classic
EC412
41 Ah
370 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB442
44 Ah
420 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA472
47 Ah
450 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Essentials
HB 063
41 Ah
360 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 063
45 Ah
440 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP063
44 Ah
420 A
210x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS063
50 Ah
500 A
210x175x175 mmMore
Varta Black Dynamic
A17
41 Ah
360 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
B18
44 Ah
440 A
207x175x175 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
C6
52 Ah
520 A
207x175x175 mmMore
The above three petrol engines of the Opel Combo B, namely 1.2 ,1.4 and 1.4 16V, will perform best with batteries of at least 38 Ah capacity. We recommend choosing higher-end battery models for cars with a large number of optional extras. The weakest of these is the battery Bosch S3 S30 01 which capacity is 41 Ah and Cold Cranking Amps is 360 A. The most powerful battery is Bosch S5 S50 01 of a capacity 52Ah and Cold Cranking Amps: 520 A. All of the above motors have a base hold-down B13.

Opel Combo B – diesel engines:
  • 1.7 D

ModelCapacity and CCADimensions (LxWxH)Price
Bosch S3
S30 04
53 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S4
S40 04
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Bosch S5
S50 04
61 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Exide Classic
EC542
54 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Exide Excell
EB602
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Exide Premium
EA612
61 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Essentials
HB 075
56 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Halfords Standard
HCB 075
60 Ah
550 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP065
53 Ah
480 A
243x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Premium
LP075
60 Ah
540 A
243x175x175 mmMore
Lucas Supreme
LS075
62 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Varta Black Dynamic
C11
53 Ah
500 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Varta Blue Dynamic
D59
60 Ah
540 A
242x175x175 mmMore
Varta Silver Dynamic
D21
61 Ah
600 A
242x175x175 mmMore
The Opel Combo B with a 1.7 D diesel engine should be compatible with batteries of dimensions 242x175x175 mm or 243x175x175 mm, with a minimum capacity of 51 Ah. The most basic battery of this set is Lucas Premium LP065 of a capacity 53Ah and 480A Cold Cranking Amps, the battery with the biggest capacity is Lucas Supreme LS075 of a capacity 62 Ah, having 600A Cold Cranking Amps. All the batteries in the list above have a base hold-down B13.
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Opel Combo , 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

Opel Adam (2013-) battery
Opel Agila A (2000-2007) battery
Opel Agila B (2008-2014) battery
Opel Antara (2006-2015) battery
Opel Astra F (1991-2002) battery
Opel Astra G (1998-2009) battery
Opel Astra H (2004-) battery
Opel Astra J (Astra 4) (2009-2015) battery
Opel Astra K (Astra 5) (2015-2021) battery
Opel Cascada (2013-) battery
Opel Combo C (2001-2011) battery
Opel Combo D (2011-) battery
Opel Corsa A (1982-1993) battery
Opel Corsa B (1993-2000) battery
Opel Corsa C (2000-2006) battery
Opel Corsa D (2006-2014) battery
Opel Corsa E (2014-2019) battery
Opel Frontera A (1991-1998) battery
Opel Frontera B (1998-2003) battery
Opel Insignia A (2008-2017) battery
Opel Meriva B (2010-) battery
Opel Meriva Mk1 (A) (2003-2010) battery
Opel Mokka (2012-) battery
Opel Movano A (1998-2010) battery
Opel Movano B (2010-) battery
Opel Omega B (1994-2003) battery
Opel Signum (2003-2008) battery
Opel Sintra (1996-1999) battery
Opel Tigra Twin Top (2004-2009) battery
Opel Vectra B (1995-2002) battery
Opel Vectra C (2000-2008) battery
Opel Vivaro I (2001-2014) battery
Opel Zafira A (1999-2005) battery
Opel Zafira B (2005-2014) battery
Opel Zafira C (2011-) battery


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