Selecting the correct battery for your Volkswagen Passat B5 produced between 1996 and 2000 is essential to ensure optimal engine performance, reliability, and longevity of your vehicle’s electrical system. The variety of engines available in this model range, from smaller 1.6-liter petrol engines to larger 2.8 V6 and 2.5 TDI diesels, means that battery requirements can differ significantly. Understanding the technical needs of your specific engine, as well as the advantages of different battery models, will help you make an informed decision.
For the entry-level 1.6 petrol engine, which does not feature the Start-Stop system, the recommended battery capacity ranges from 44Ah to 58Ah, with a cold cranking amperage (CCA) between 360A and 540A. These engines are less demanding on the battery, making them suitable for standard lead-acid batteries. Some example compatible models include Bosch S30 02, Exide EB500, and Varta B19, among others. These are traditional flooded lead-acid batteries, which are cost-effective and generally sufficient for vehicles without advanced electrical demands.
As you move up to engines such as the 1.8, 1.8T, 2.0, and their Syncro or 4motion variants, the battery requirements increase slightly. For these models, you should consider batteries with a capacity of 55Ah to 65Ah and a CCA of 460A to 640A. Again, lead-acid batteries are the standard choice, and suitable examples include Bosch S40 05, Exide EA640, and Varta D24. It is important to note that all petrol engines in this generation Passat, including the performance-oriented 2.3 VR5 and 2.8 V6, do not require AGM or EFB batteries because they lack Start-Stop technology. However, opting for a higher capacity within the recommended range can be beneficial if you often drive in cold conditions or make frequent short trips.
For larger petrol engines like the 2.3 VR5, 2.8 V6, and their Syncro or 4motion versions, the required battery capacity increases to between 70Ah and 78Ah, with a CCA of 640A to 780A. Example suitable batteries for these powertrains include Bosch S50 08, Exide EA770, and Varta E44. Investing in a higher capacity battery for these engines can also help support additional electrical accessories, such as heated seats or upgraded audio systems, which were becoming increasingly popular in late-1990s vehicles.
The diesel engines, particularly the 1.9 TDI and 2.5 TDI, have higher energy demands, especially in cold weather, as diesels require more power to start. For the 1.9 TDI, the recommended battery is similar to the larger petrol engines: 70Ah to 78Ah with a CCA of 640A to 780A, and compatible examples include Exide EB740 and Varta E13. However, the 2.5 TDI stands out with even higher capacity needs, requiring batteries from 80Ah to 90Ah and a CCA of 640A to 800A. Some example models for these robust requirements include Bosch S50 11, Exide EA900, and Varta F19. It is particularly crucial for diesel owners to select a battery with a high CCA rating to ensure reliable starting in winter.
All engines in the Passat B5 from this period are compatible with standard lead-acid batteries, which are widely available and cost-effective. However, when choosing a new battery, it’s important to ensure that the physical dimensions of the battery fit the mounting tray in your car, and that the terminal layout matches the vehicle’s wiring. Many battery brands offer online search tools that can help you find the correct size and specification for your exact model. While the table lists several example batteries from brands like Bosch, Exide, Lucas, and Varta, it’s worth noting that other reputable brands are available, and as long as the battery meets the technical requirements, it will be suitable.
A fascinating aspect of the Passat B5 is how it reflects the transition period in automotive electrical systems. Unlike modern cars, there is no need for advanced AGM or EFB batteries in this generation, making battery replacement less expensive and maintenance more straightforward. On the other hand, investing in a battery with a higher reserve capacity can still offer tangible benefits, such as longer service life and better performance under heavy electrical loads.
In conclusion, when selecting a battery for your VW Passat B5, always prioritize the correct capacity, CCA rating, and physical fit. By choosing a reliable battery from a trusted manufacturer and ensuring it aligns with the specifications above, you will maintain your car’s dependability and enjoy peace of mind for years to come. Remember, while the models listed above are just examples, your local supplier can help you identify the best fit for your specific vehicle and driving needs.
VW Passat in version B5 was produced in the years 1996 – 2000. Below we present the specifications of batteries suitable for specific engines.
Basic parameters of batteries suitable for VW Passat (1996-2000):
| Layout | Terminal types | Base hold-down |
|---|---|---|
| 0 – positive on the right side | 1 | B13 |
VW Passat B5 – petrol engines:
- 1.6
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 02 | 45 Ah 400 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 02 | 52 Ah 470 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 02 | 54 Ah 530 A | 207x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC440 | 44 Ah 360 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 LP012 | 45 Ah 390 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP079 | 50 Ah 420 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Supreme LS012 | 58 Ah 520 A | 210x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Black Dynamic B19 | 45 Ah 400 A | 207x175x190 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 Passat B5 – petrol engines:
- 1.8
- 1.8 Syncro/4motion
- 1.8 T
- 1.8 T Syncro
- 2.0
- 2.0 4motion
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 05 | 56 Ah 480 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 05 | 60 Ah 540 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 05 | 63 Ah 610 A | 242x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC550 | 55 Ah 460 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 Essentials HB 027 | 56 Ah 480 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 Black Dynamic C14 | 56 Ah 480 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 Passat B5 – petrol engines:
- 2.3 VR5
- 2.3 VR5 Syncro/4motion
- 2.8 Syncro
- 2.8 V6
- 2.8 V6 Syncro/4motion
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 08 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC700 | 70 Ah 640 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 Essentials HB 096 | 70 Ah 640 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 Black Dynamic E13 | 70 Ah 640 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 Passat B5 – diesel engines:
- 1.9 TDI
- 1.9 TDI Syncro/4motion
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S3 S30 08 | 70 Ah 640 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S4 S40 08 | 74 Ah 680 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 08 | 77 Ah 780 A | 278x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Classic EC700 | 70 Ah 640 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 Essentials HB 096 | 70 Ah 640 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 Black Dynamic E13 | 70 Ah 640 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 Passat B5 – diesel engines:
- 2.5 TDI
- 2.5 TDI Syncro/4motion
| Model | Capacity and CCA | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch S4 S40 11 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Bosch S5 S50 11 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Excell EB800 | 80 Ah 640 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Exide Premium EA900 | 90 Ah 720 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Lucas Premium LP115 | 80 Ah 670 A | 317x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Blue Dynamic F16 | 80 Ah 740 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
| Varta Silver Dynamic F19 | 85 Ah 800 A | 315x175x190 mm | More |
If you’re still unsure which battery fits your VW Passat , 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!