Choosing the right battery for the VW Caddy III (2K), produced from 2004 onwards, requires a clear understanding of the specific engine configuration and whether the vehicle is equipped with a Start-Stop system. As a versatile vehicle widely used by tradespeople, families, and fleet operators, the Caddy demands a battery that not only fits correctly but also delivers consistent performance under various driving conditions.
For petrol engine variants such as the 1.2 TSI, 1.4, 1.4 16V, 1.6, and even the 2.0 EcoFuel, the battery requirements remain relatively modest. These engines do not feature Start-Stop systems, and they operate effectively with conventional lead-acid batteries rated between 50 and 58 Ah, with a cold cranking amperage (CCA) from 420 to 540 A. These specifications are ideal for standard urban and suburban driving. Example batteries that fit these needs include Bosch S50 02, Exide EA530, Varta C22, and Lucas LP079. These batteries are dependable and cost-effective, delivering enough power for daily starts and the occasional accessory use.
For bi-fuel versions like the 1.6 BiFuel, the demands increase slightly due to the dual fuel system and the electrical requirements associated with switching between petrol and gas. In such cases, a battery capacity of 60 to 65 Ah and a CCA from 540 to 640 A is recommended. Examples of compatible batteries include Bosch S40 05, Exide EB620, Varta D24, and Lucas LS027. These models offer additional reserve capacity, which can be important in colder climates or for vehicles with additional electrical accessories.
Diesel engines, which are quite common in the Caddy III, require more starting power. For 1.6 TDI and 2.0 TDI engines without Start-Stop systems, battery capacities should also fall between 60 and 65 Ah, with a CCA of 540 to 640 A. This ensures reliable starting even in low temperatures, which is especially important for delivery vans or work vehicles that operate year-round. Suitable examples include Bosch S50 05, Exide EA640, Varta D15, and Halfords HCB 027. These batteries are specifically designed to handle the compression requirements of diesel engines while remaining compact enough for easy installation.
Larger or more robust diesel versions, such as the 1.9 TDI, 2.0 SDI, or 2.0 TDI (including 4motion variants), call for even stronger batteries. These engines typically require batteries with a capacity of 74 to 78 Ah and a CCA ranging from 680 to 780 A. This higher performance level ensures the engine will crank without hesitation, even during winter or after long periods of inactivity. Examples of suitable batteries include Bosch S40 08, Exide EA770, Varta E11, and Lucas LP096. Choosing one of these ensures the battery won’t be the weak link in your vehicle’s reliability.
The only Caddy III variant with a Start-Stop system in this dataset is the 1.6 TDI with Start-Stop. This model requires an AGM battery, specifically designed to handle frequent engine restarts and regenerative braking. In this case, a battery with a capacity of 70 to 72 Ah and a CCA between 720 and 760 A is necessary. Examples of compatible AGM batteries include Bosch S5A 08, Exide EK700, Varta E39, and Lucas LF096. AGM batteries may be more expensive than traditional types, but they offer superior performance and a longer lifespan when used with Start-Stop technology.
One fascinating fact about the VW Caddy III is that it shares its platform with the VW Touran and even parts of the Golf V, which means it’s engineered to perform with a wide array of engines and electronics. Because of this flexibility, battery placement and specifications remain relatively consistent, but it’s still critical to verify the physical size, terminal position, and hold-down type before purchasing a replacement.
In summary, selecting a battery for the VW Caddy III depends heavily on engine type and electrical demands. Petrol and non-Start-Stop diesel engines typically perform well with standard lead-acid batteries, while Start-Stop variants require AGM types. Ensuring proper fitment and choosing quality brands like Bosch, Exide, Varta, or Lucas will help maintain your vehicle’s reliability and reduce the chance of electrical issues. A well-chosen battery is essential not just for starting the engine, but also for supporting the many electronic systems in today’s vehicles.
VW Caddy in version III (2K) is produced from 2004. Below we present the specifications of batteries suitable for specific engines.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for VW Caddy (2004-):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
VW Caddy III (2K) – petrol engines:
- 1.2 TSI
- 1.4
- 1.4 16V
- 1.6
- 2.0 EcoFuel
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 02 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 02 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB500 | 50 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA530 | 53 Ah 540 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Standard HCB 012 | 52 Ah 450 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP079 | 50 Ah 420 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS012 | 58 Ah 520 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic C22 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic C30 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
VW Caddy III (2K) – petrol engines:
- 1.6 BiFuel
| 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 |
VW Caddy III (2K) – diesel engines:
- 1.6 TDI
- 2.0 TDI
- 2.0 TDI
- 2.0 TDI 4motion
| 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 |
VW Caddy III (2K) – diesel engines:
- 1.9 TDI
- 1.9 TDI 4motion
- 2.0 SDI
- 2.0 TDI
- 2.0 TDI
- 2.0 TDI 4motion
| 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 |
VW Caddy III (2K) – diesel engines:
- 1.6 TDI – 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 Standard AGM 096 | 70 Ah 720 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Halfords Advanced AGM 096 | 70 Ah 760 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 |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your VW Caddy , 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!