Choosing the right battery for a Toyota RAV4 III produced between 2005 and 2012 depends on the engine type and drivetrain, as the vehicle was offered with a wide range of petrol and diesel options. This generation of the RAV4 did not use Start-Stop technology, which simplifies the choice to conventional lead-acid batteries, but it is still crucial to select a model that meets the required capacity and starting current. A properly matched battery ensures reliable starts in all weather conditions and stable operation of the vehicle’s electrical systems.
For petrol engines, the RAV4 III was available with 2.0, 2.0 4WD, 2.0 VVT-i, 2.0 VVT-i 4WD, 2.4 VVT-i, 2.4 VVT-i 4WD, and 3.5 VVT-i 4WD versions. The 2.0-liter engines, both front-wheel-drive and 4WD, require batteries with a capacity of 50 to 60 Ah and a cold cranking current of 360 to 540 A. These values provide enough starting power for normal conditions while keeping the battery size compact. Example compatible models include Bosch S40 24, Exide EB504, Lucas LP005, and Varta D47. These are sample fitting batteries that meet the RAV4’s requirements.
The larger petrol engines, including the 2.0 VVT-i, 2.0 VVT-i 4WD, 2.4 VVT-i, 2.4 VVT-i 4WD, and 3.5 VVT-i 4WD, require slightly higher capacity batteries in the 60 to 65 Ah range with a cold cranking current of 390 to 580 A. Example batteries for these configurations include Bosch S40 24, Exide EA654, Exide EB604, Lucas LP005, and Varta D47. Using a battery on the higher end of the recommended range can provide additional reliability for vehicles driven in colder climates or with extra electronic accessories installed, such as aftermarket multimedia systems or auxiliary lighting.
Diesel engines in the RAV4 III demand significantly more starting power due to their higher compression ratios. The 2.2 D-4D, 2.2 D-4D 4WD, and 2.2 D-CAT 4WD require batteries with a capacity of 95 to 100 Ah and a cold cranking current of 720 to 830 A. These powerful batteries ensure reliable starts even in harsh winter conditions or after the vehicle has been unused for an extended period. Example compatible models include Bosch S40 28, Exide EA954, Exide EB954, Lucas LS249, and Varta G7. Choosing a high-quality battery for the diesel versions is especially important because they rely on strong cranking performance to ignite efficiently in low temperatures.
One noteworthy detail about the Toyota RAV4 III is its unique battery mounting system. While most vehicles use the standard B13 hold-down type, the RAV4 in this generation commonly uses variations such as B0, B01, B1, or the Korean B1. This means that even if a battery meets the electrical specifications, it must also be physically compatible with the tray and mounting system to ensure a secure installation. A poorly fitted battery can shift under the hood during driving, which is especially critical in a vehicle designed for light off-road use like the RAV4.
An interesting aspect of the RAV4 III is that its electrical system remains relatively simple compared to modern SUVs with Start-Stop technology, which means batteries generally last longer if properly maintained. Regularly checking the battery charge level, cleaning the terminals, and avoiding deep discharges can significantly extend the lifespan of the battery. Owners who do a lot of short trips or leave their car parked for extended periods can benefit from using a trickle charger to prevent the battery from draining.
By selecting a battery that matches the recommended capacity and cranking current, confirming that it fits the specific mounting system, and performing regular maintenance, RAV4 III owners can ensure their SUV remains dependable in daily use and during outdoor adventures. A high-quality, well-fitted battery will keep the vehicle ready to start in all conditions and support the electronics that make this generation of RAV4 a comfortable and versatile companion.
Toyota RAV 4 in version III was produced in the years 2005 – 2012. The following table presents information about batteries that match each of the engines available on the market.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for Toyota RAV 4 (2005-2012):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | Korean B1 |
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B01 |
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B1 |
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B0 |
Toyota RAV 4 III – petrol engines:
- 2.0
- 2.0 4WD
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 232x173x225 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB504 | 50 Ah 360 A | 200x173x222 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP005 | 60 Ah 540 A | 230x170x225 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D47 | 60 Ah 540 A | 232x173x225 mm | More |
Toyota RAV 4 III – petrol engines:
- 2.0 VVT-i
- 2.0 VVT-i 4WD
- 2.4 VVTi
- 2.4 VVTi 4WD
- 3.5 VVTi 4WD
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 24 | 60 Ah 540 A | 232x173x225 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB604 | 60 Ah 390 A | 230x173x222 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA654 | 65 Ah 580 A | 230x173x222 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP005 | 60 Ah 540 A | 230x170x225 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic D47 | 60 Ah 540 A | 232x173x225 mm | More |
Toyota RAV 4 III – diesel engines:
- 2.2 D-4D
- 2.2 D-4D 4WD
- 2.2 D-CAT 4WD
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 28 | 95 Ah 830 A | 306x173x225 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB954 | 95 Ah 720 A | 306x173x222 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA954 | 95 Ah 800 A | 306x173x222 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS249 | 100 Ah 800 A | 302x175x225 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic G7 | 95 Ah 830 A | 306x173x225 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your Toyota RAV 4 , 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!