What Kind of Battery Does a 2012 Audi A5 Take?

A 2012 Audi A5 typically uses a 12‑volt AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Group 48/H6 battery with around 70–80 Ah capacity and at least 680–800 CCA, but exact specifications can vary by engine, equipment, and market, so matching the original label and using the correct coding/registration procedure is essential.

Understanding the 2012 Audi A5 Battery Specification

The 2012 Audi A5 was sold with multiple engines and option packages, each placing different demands on the electrical system. While most models share a broadly similar battery format, the capacity, cold‑cranking rating and even the technology (AGM vs. conventional flooded lead‑acid) can differ slightly. That makes it important to understand the typical factory setup and how to verify what your particular car needs.

Typical Factory Battery Type and Size

For most 2012 Audi A5 models (coupe and cabriolet, 2.0 TFSI and 3.0 TDI/3.2 FSI in many markets), the commonly specified battery is a European‑style H6, also known in North America as Group 48. This is a “DIN”/EN form factor with specific length, width and height designed to fit the A5’s battery tray and hold‑down system.

The main characteristics of the typical 2012 Audi A5 battery are:

• Battery type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) in most well‑equipped and start‑stop models; some non–start‑stop cars may have been supplied with an enhanced flooded (EFB) or high‑quality flooded lead‑acid unit.
• Physical size: H6 / Group 48 form factor, roughly 278 mm (L) × 175 mm (W) × 190 mm (H).
• Capacity (Ah): generally 70–80 Ah, depending on engine and equipment package.
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): usually in the 680–800 A EN range.
• Polarity: standard European layout (positive and negative posts oriented to match factory cables when installed in the original position).

These characteristics ensure the battery fits securely, connects properly, and has the output Audi’s electrical system expects, especially for cold starts and high accessory loads.

AGM vs. Conventional Lead-Acid in the A5

The 2012 A5 uses a sophisticated charging system that can take advantage of AGM technology, particularly in cars with more advanced electrical options. AGM batteries are sealed, spill‑resistant and better able to handle frequent charge–discharge cycles, making them suitable for modern vehicles with higher parasitic loads and, where fitted, start‑stop systems.

Key differences relevant to the 2012 A5 include:

• Cycling durability: AGM batteries withstand more deep cycles than standard flooded batteries, important in vehicles with numerous electronic modules that stay active even when the car is off.
• Charge acceptance: AGM can absorb charge faster, which works well with smart alternators that vary output based on driving conditions.
• Vibration resistance: AGM’s internal design resists vibration better, useful in performance‑oriented chassis like the A5.
• Cost: AGM units are more expensive, but generally last longer and maintain performance better under demanding use.

While some base‑spec A5s may have been delivered with a high‑quality flooded battery, replacing with AGM is common and often recommended, provided it matches the original specification and is coded correctly in the vehicle.

How to Confirm the Correct Battery for Your Specific 2012 A5

Because equipment, climate package, and regional variations can change the exact battery spec, the most reliable way to choose a replacement is to confirm what your car was built with and what Audi’s system expects.

Check the Existing Battery Label

The fastest check is to look at the label on the battery currently installed in the vehicle. Audi and major OEM suppliers (Varta, Exide, Banner and others in Europe; similar equivalents in North America) mark key parameters clearly on the top or side of the casing.

Look for the following information on the label:

• Battery technology: It should say AGM, EFB, or indicate a standard flooded lead‑acid type.
• Capacity (Ah): Typically 70–80 Ah; match this as closely as possible.
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): Usually 680–800 A EN; do not go significantly below the factory rating.
• Case size code: H6, L2, or Group 48 (or an EN size code that cross‑references to H6/48).
• Part/serial number: May be used by the dealer or coding tools when registering a new battery.

Matching this label ensures you stay close to the original engineering specification, which helps both with reliability and with correct behavior of the charging system.

Use VIN and Official Catalogs

If the battery in the car might not be original, or the label is unreadable, use the vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to query official Audi parts catalogs or reputable aftermarket catalogs.

To confirm via official or professional sources, you can:

• Contact an Audi dealer: Provide your VIN and ask for the recommended battery specification for a 2012 A5; they can tell you the exact Ah, CCA and technology originally fitted.
• Use online parts databases: OEM‑linked or high‑quality aftermarket sites often allow VIN lookup for precise battery specifications.
• Consult a specialist workshop: Independent Audi/VW specialists often have software that mirrors dealership parts systems and can advise on the correct battery.

Using the VIN avoids guesswork and is especially important if your car has unique equipment (advanced sound systems, auxiliary heaters, or heavy electrical options) that may demand a higher‑capacity unit.

Installation, Coding, and Practical Considerations

In a modern Audi such as the 2012 A5, replacing the battery is not merely a matter of size and terminal location. The car’s energy management system monitors and adapts to the battery over time, so proper installation and coding help ensure correct charging and battery lifespan.

Why Coding/Registration Matters

Many 2012 A5s are equipped with a Battery Energy Management (BEM) system linked to the onboard network. When a new battery is installed, the control module should be told about the replacement so it can reset its learned data and adjust charging profiles.

Relevant points about battery coding/registration include:

• Resetting adaptation: The control unit tracks battery age and condition; registering a new battery tells it to treat the unit as “new.”
• Preventing over/under‑charging: Incorrect adaptation data can result in suboptimal charging, shortening battery life.
• Tool requirement: Coding is usually done with diagnostic tools such as ODIS (dealer), VCDS, or other compatible scan tools.
• Part number entry: The system may request the battery manufacturer, part number, and capacity (Ah) so it can match its charging strategy.

While the car will often start and run without coding, skipping this step can reduce long‑term battery performance and may trigger energy‑management warnings in some cases.

Basic Replacement Guidelines

Physically changing the battery in a 2012 A5 is straightforward for a competent DIYer, but certain precautions help protect sensitive electronics and ensure safety.

When replacing the battery, consider these practices:

• Preserve settings if needed: Use a memory saver device if you want to avoid resetting radio presets and some convenience settings.
• Observe safety: Wear eye protection and gloves; ensure ignition is off and key removed before disconnecting.
• Disconnect negative first, reconnect negative last: This reduces the risk of short circuits when tools contact bodywork.
• Secure the battery firmly: Make sure the hold‑down bracket is properly tightened to prevent movement, which can damage cables or the case.
• Run a diagnostic check after installation: Clear any low‑voltage or battery‑related fault codes and perform coding/registration if applicable.

Following these steps helps protect the vehicle’s electronic systems and maximizes the life and effectiveness of your new battery.

Summary

The 2012 Audi A5 generally uses a 12‑volt AGM battery in the H6 / Group 48 size, with a capacity around 70–80 Ah and a CCA rating roughly in the 680–800 A range. However, exact specifications can vary by engine, trim level and market. The most reliable approach is to confirm the original specification via the existing battery label or a VIN‑based lookup and to match technology, size, Ah and CCA closely. Proper installation and, where applicable, coding or registration of the new battery in the car’s energy management system are important to ensure reliable starting, correct charging behavior and maximum service life.

What battery do I need for my Audi?

Your owner’s manual should tell you what Audi battery you need – or you can check it instantly by using our battery search tool at the top of this page. Our battery test technicians can also advise you. Whatever the answer, we’re likely to have you covered.

What size battery is in the 2012 Audi A5?

Duralast Gold Group Size 94R H7 Battery H7-DLG.

Does an Audi require a special battery?

Getting the right battery
Most batteries found in Audis today are referred to as value-regulated lead-acid batteries, or a VRLA. These are commonly known as rechargeable sealed batteries. These batteries are designed to adjust the voltage depending on what is needed of them.

What type of battery does an Audi A5 use?

A 12V lead-acid battery is the most common type used in Audi A5 vehicles to start the engine and power electrical systems. It is reliable and cost-effective, making it ideal for petrol and diesel Audi A5 cars with standard power needs.