What Group Size Is the Hyundai Sonata Battery?

The battery group size for a Hyundai Sonata depends on the model year and engine, but most modern Sonatas in North America commonly use BCI Group 124R or Group 47 (H5), while some trims and years use Group 96R, 35, or 48 (H6). To be certain, you should confirm with the owner’s manual, the label on your existing battery, or a fitment guide for your exact year, engine, and market.

Understanding Battery Group Size

Battery “group size” is a standardized code that defines a battery’s physical dimensions, terminal layout, and general fitment. For a Hyundai Sonata, using the correct group size is crucial: it ensures the battery fits securely in the tray, the cables reach properly, and the hold-down bracket works as intended.

What “Group Size” Actually Means

The most common standard used in North America is the Battery Council International (BCI) system. Each code (like 124R, 47/H5, or 96R) corresponds to a specific length, width, height, and post configuration. If you choose the wrong group size, the battery may not sit safely, cables could be stretched or misaligned, and under-hood components may be stressed or obstructed.

Common Hyundai Sonata Battery Group Sizes by Generation

While the exact battery group size can vary by trim, engine, and region, there are recurring patterns across Sonata generations sold in the U.S. and Canada. The list below outlines the most typical BCI group sizes used across recent model years; however, always verify for your specific vehicle.

The following list summarizes common battery group sizes by Sonata generation and model year, based on typical North American fitment data from major aftermarket suppliers and service guides.

• 2020–2025 Hyundai Sonata (DN8, incl. 1.6T, 2.5L, hybrid)

  Common fitment: Group 47 (H5) is widely used for non-hybrid gas models. Some trims and higher-option packages may list Group 48 (H6) as compatible, especially where additional electronics or options require more capacity. Hyundai hybrids can use specialized batteries and, in plug-in or full hybrid systems, high-voltage traction batteries separate from the 12V unit.

• 2015–2019 Hyundai Sonata (LF, incl. 2.4L, 2.0T, hybrid/PHEV)

  Common fitment: Group 124R and Group 47 (H5) are frequently specified for gasoline models. In some catalogs, Group 96R appears as an alternate choice depending on trim and equipment. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models may use a different 12V battery design and separate high-voltage packs.

• 2011–2014 Hyundai Sonata (YF)

  Common fitment: Typically Group 124R or Group 96R for most 2.4L and 2.0T gasoline engines. Battery size can vary by supplier, so cross-referencing by VIN or exact engine is recommended.

• 2006–2010 Hyundai Sonata (NF)

  Common fitment: Commonly Group 35 in many North American catalogs. Some variants may also list Group 24F, depending on supplier and region.

• 1999–2005 Hyundai Sonata (EF)

  Common fitment: Often Group 35 or Group 24F for earlier Sonatas in the North American market. These vehicles predate some of the later compact European-style sizes like H5/H6 that appear in newer models.

These group sizes reflect the most common arrangements in North American fitment guides as of late 2024, but individual vehicles can differ by trim, optional equipment, and production updates, making verification essential before purchase.

Why There’s No Single Universal Answer

There is no one-size-fits-all battery group for all Hyundai Sonata models because Hyundai has updated platforms, engines, and electrical demands over time. In addition, different markets (Europe, Asia, North America) may use slightly different standards or battery formats even on similar model years.

Factors That Change the Required Group Size

Several factors influence which battery group size is appropriate for your Sonata, and understanding them helps avoid a wrong or marginal fit.

The following list explains the main factors that determine which battery group size your specific Hyundai Sonata will use.

• Model year and generation – Each redesign often comes with a different engine bay layout and mounting hardware, which can change the physical size of the battery tray and hold-down.
• Engine type – A 2.5L naturally aspirated engine may share a group size with a 1.6L turbo in the same generation, but earlier generations sometimes varied between base and turbo models.
• Trim level and electrical load – Higher trims with more electronic features (heated/cooled seats, advanced safety systems, premium audio) may benefit from a battery with higher cold-cranking amps (CCA), even within the same group size. Some catalogs list more than one compatible size for that reason.
• Hybrid vs. gasoline – Hybrids and plug-in hybrids typically have a high-voltage traction battery plus a separate 12V auxiliary battery. The 12V unit’s group size and specifications can differ from non-hybrid models and sometimes use more specialized designs.
• Regional differences – Sonatas sold in Europe or other markets may use DIN/EN-style codes (such as H5/H6/H7) as primary labels, while North America usually references BCI groups (47, 48, 35, etc.), even when the underlying physical battery is effectively the same size.

Because these variables interact, two Sonatas from the same model year but different trims or regions can justifiably require different group sizes, reinforcing the need for vehicle-specific confirmation.

How to Confirm the Correct Battery Group Size for Your Sonata

The most reliable way to identify the exact group size for your Hyundai Sonata is to cross-check multiple trusted sources. This reduces the risk of buying a battery that doesn’t fit securely or meet the electrical demands of your car.

Practical Steps to Verify Fitment

Drivers can follow a few simple checks to confirm the right battery group size before heading to the parts counter or ordering online.

1. Check the owner’s manual

   The owner’s manual usually lists recommended battery specifications: capacity (Ah), cold-cranking amps (CCA), and often the physical standard (e.g., 47/H5, 48/H6). Some manuals are more explicit than others about BCI group numbers, but they still provide essential technical limits.

2. Read the label on the existing battery

   Most replacement batteries have the group size printed on the top or side label (e.g., “Group 124R,” “47/H5”). If the current battery fits well and is original or installed by a reputable shop, this is often a trustworthy reference. However, be cautious if the battery looks poorly secured or if adapters and shims are present.

3. Use online fitment tools

   Major battery retailers and manufacturers (such as Exide, Interstate, DieHard, Bosch, or OEM sites) offer lookup tools where you enter year, make, model, and engine. These tools are updated regularly and usually list the primary and sometimes alternate group sizes for your specific Sonata.

4. Consult a dealership or professional mechanic

   A Hyundai dealer can confirm the original equipment specifications based on your VIN. Independent mechanics with access to professional parts catalogs can do the same, and they can also advise on higher-capacity options that still fit your car.

5. Visually confirm tray and terminals

   Before finalizing a purchase, compare length, width, height, and terminal orientation of the new battery with your current one. Make sure the positive post lines up correctly and that the hold-down bracket will secure the battery without modification.

By combining documentation, direct inspection, and professional or catalog data, you significantly reduce the chance of buying a battery that is the right voltage but the wrong shape, height, or terminal configuration.

Other Key Specifications Beyond Group Size

While group size ensures physical compatibility, your Hyundai Sonata’s overall reliability in different climates and driving conditions also depends on performance characteristics like cold-cranking amps and reserve capacity.

Performance Ratings to Watch

When choosing a battery for your Sonata, it’s useful to look beyond the group size alone and consider the performance numbers printed on the label.

The following list highlights the main technical ratings that matter once you have identified the correct group size.

• Cold-Cranking Amps (CCA) – Indicates how much current the battery can deliver at low temperatures (usually -18°C/0°F). For most Sonatas, sticking to Hyundai’s specified minimum CCA or going slightly higher is recommended, especially in colder climates.
• Reserve Capacity (RC) – Measures how long the battery can supply a steady current if the alternator fails. A higher RC gives more buffer for accessories and stop-and-go driving.
• Battery type (flooded vs. AGM) – Some newer vehicles can benefit from AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries, particularly if they have heavy electrical loads or frequent short trips. If your Sonata did not originally come with AGM, it often can still accept one in the correct group size, but you should confirm compatibility and charging system specs.
• Warranty and brand quality – Reputable brands and longer warranties generally indicate better build quality and more consistent performance. For a daily-driven Sonata, a mid- to upper-tier battery is usually a sound investment.

Matching or modestly exceeding the factory specifications within the correct group size ensures that the battery not only fits but also performs reliably under the electrical demands of your vehicle.

Summary

Hyundai Sonata battery group size is not the same across all years and trims. In contemporary North American models, Group 47 (H5) and Group 124R are especially common, with sizes like 96R, 35, and 48 (H6) also appearing in certain generations and configurations. Because variations exist by model year, engine, trim, and region, the safest approach is to confirm your battery group size using the owner’s manual, the current battery label, an online fitment guide, or a dealer or mechanic. Once you have the correct group size, focusing on adequate CCA, reserve capacity, and overall quality will ensure a reliable replacement for your Hyundai Sonata.