What Kind of Battery Does a 2014 Audi S5 Take?

The 2014 Audi S5 typically uses a Group 48 (H6) AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) 12‑volt battery with around 70–80 Ah capacity and 680–800 CCA, but exact specifications depend on trim, equipment, and market, so checking the label under the trunk floor or your owner’s manual is essential before purchase.

Understanding the 2014 Audi S5 Battery Specification

The 2014 Audi S5 is a performance-oriented, technology-heavy car, and its electrical demands are higher than those of simpler vehicles. That’s why Audi generally specifies an AGM-style battery in a Group 48/H6 size. While many parts retailers will list a compatible replacement by vehicle lookup, it’s important to understand what those codes and numbers mean so you can choose a correct and reliable battery — and avoid issues with start-stop systems, electronics, and long-term reliability.

Core Battery Type and Size

Most 2014 Audi S5 models sold in North America and Europe are equipped from the factory with a high-capacity AGM battery located in the trunk. The battery group size and chemistry are the key identifiers you need to match when buying a replacement.

Battery Group Size

The battery group size describes the physical dimensions, terminal locations, and general fit of the battery. On the 2014 S5, sticking to the factory size is recommended to ensure the battery fits securely and connects correctly to the existing cables and hold-downs.

• Common fitment: Group 48 (also known as H6 in European sizing)
• Dimensions (approximate): 12.1 in x 6.9 in x 7.5 in (306 x 175 x 190 mm)
• Terminal layout: Standard left-positive configuration for most S5s
• Location: Mounted in the trunk, under the trunk floor panel, usually on the right side

Staying with a Group 48/H6 battery ensures proper fitment in the S5’s battery tray, correct alignment with the terminals, and secure retention by the car’s factory hold-down system.

Battery Chemistry: AGM vs. Flooded Lead-Acid

The 2014 Audi S5’s electrical system, comfort features, and optional start-stop/energy management functions are designed around a high-performance battery type. In most markets, the original equipment specification is an AGM battery rather than a conventional flooded lead-acid design.

• Recommended type: AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat)
• Reason: Better support for high electrical loads, more resistant to deep cycling, improved performance in cold weather, and better compatibility with advanced charging systems
• Ventilation: AGM units are sealed but still use a vent port connected to the car’s vent tube in the trunk
• Substitution: A high-quality flooded battery may be physically compatible, but is generally not recommended as a downgrade for modern Audi energy-management systems

While a flooded battery can sometimes appear as a cheaper alternative, choosing an AGM unit keeps the S5’s charging, start-stop (where equipped), and energy management systems working as intended and helps avoid premature failure.

Key Electrical Ratings to Match

Beyond physical size and chemistry, the crucial electrical ratings for the 2014 Audi S5 battery are capacity (Ah) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). These numbers determine how long the battery can power the car’s systems and how well it can crank the engine in different conditions.

Capacity (Ampere-hours, Ah)

Capacity represents how much energy the battery can store and supply over time. The S5, with its high-end electronics and comfort systems, requires a relatively robust capacity rating.

• Typical OEM range: 70–80 Ah for a 2014 Audi S5
• Minimum practical target: Around 70 Ah; going lower can stress the battery and the car’s electrical system
• Higher capacity: An 80 Ah battery of the same size and chemistry is acceptable and can offer more reserve, provided it fits physically and matches the vehicle’s specifications
• Vehicle coding: If you significantly change capacity (e.g., 70 Ah to 80 Ah), the battery management system should be updated (coded) to reflect the new rating

Choosing a battery with comparable or slightly higher capacity than the original ensures that the S5’s comfort, infotainment, and safety systems remain stable, especially during short trip cycles or heavy accessory use.

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

CCA indicates how much current the battery can deliver at low temperatures — crucial for starting the supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine in the 2014 S5, particularly in winter climates.

• Typical CCA range: 680–800 CCA for a suitable AGM Group 48/H6 battery
• Higher is generally better: A battery with 750–800 CCA offers a comfort margin for cold starts and aging
• Match or exceed OEM: Avoid going below the originally installed CCA rating; it may still start the car but with reduced reliability in harsh conditions
• Brand variations: Different manufacturers may list slightly different CCA values; any quality AGM battery within this range is generally appropriate

Focusing on a high-quality AGM battery with CCA at or above the original rating helps the S5 maintain confident starts and reliable performance as the battery ages.

Finding the Correct Spec for Your Particular S5

Though the Group 48/H6 AGM specification fits most 2014 Audi S5 models, options, markets, and prior owner modifications can introduce small differences. Verifying what is installed in your car is the safest way to avoid mistakes.

Where to Check Your Existing Battery

The clearest indication of what your S5 needs often comes from the battery already in the car — assuming it’s the original or a properly matched replacement.

• Lift the trunk floor panel: Access the battery compartment under the cargo floor
• Inspect the battery label: Look for group size (e.g., H6 or 48), Ah rating, CCA rating, and voltage (12 V)
• Check brand and part number: OEM examples include Varta, Moll, Exide, or an Audi-branded unit, depending on the region
• Confirm venting and mounting: Note the vent tube connection and how the hold-down bracket secures the battery

Using the label details from your existing battery allows you to match or slightly improve specifications while keeping within Audi’s intended design parameters.

Owner’s Manual and Dealer Information

If the existing battery is missing, unlabelled, or clearly incorrect, the Audi documentation and dealer network remain reliable references for factory-intended specifications.

• Owner’s manual: Lists correct battery type, voltage, and typical capacity range for the 2014 S5
• Audi dealer: Can look up the original battery part number using your VIN
• Technical bulletins: Any Audi service bulletins related to battery upgrades or superseded part numbers can be checked at the dealer
• Market variations: In some regions, slightly different capacities may be specified due to climate or equipment packages

Cross-referencing your VIN with official Audi information gives you a definitive baseline and avoids relying solely on generic fitment charts from parts retailers.

Replacement Considerations: Coding and Installation

On a 2014 Audi S5, replacing the battery is not always as simple as swapping parts. The car’s energy management system may need to be told that a new battery has been installed, especially if the spec has changed significantly.

Battery Coding / Registration

Modern Audis track the condition and age of the battery to adjust charging strategies. When you install a new battery, updating the car’s memory can help improve performance and battery life.

• Battery Energy Management (BEM): The S5’s system may log battery capacity, type, and age
• Coding tools: Coding/registration can be performed using Audi’s official diagnostic tools, or third-party tools like VCDS or OBD-based apps that support battery coding
• When it’s critical: If you change from one capacity rating to another (e.g., 70 Ah to 80 Ah) or switch brands with different codes
• Consequences of skipping coding: The car may still run, but charging may be suboptimal, potentially shortening battery life or causing warning messages over time

Having the new battery properly coded is a best practice on the 2014 S5, especially when replacing the original unit with a different capacity or model.

DIY vs Professional Installation

Enthusiasts can change the battery themselves, but they should be careful with high-current connections and the S5’s sensitive electronics. For many owners, a professional install is the less risky option.

• DIY steps (simplified): Power down car, open trunk, access battery, disconnect negative then positive, remove hold-down, swap in new battery, reconnect positive then negative, and secure vent hose and tray
• Tool requirements: Basic hand tools, torque wrench (recommended), and potentially a memory saver if you want to retain certain settings
• Professional benefits: Correct installation, battery testing, proper coding/registration, and warranty support
• Common pitfalls: Reversing polarity, damaging terminal posts, failing to reconnect vent tube, or skipping coding

Whether you replace the battery yourself or use a shop, careful handling and proper configuration will help your S5’s new battery deliver its full rated performance and lifespan.

Brand Examples and Aftermarket Options

Several well-known manufacturers supply AGM batteries that meet or exceed the original requirements for a 2014 Audi S5. While brand choice often comes down to availability and warranty, the key is ensuring the battery matches the correct group size and electrical specifications.

Typical Aftermarket AGM Options

Battery catalogs and online fitment tools often list multiple suitable products for the S5. Comparing a few widely available options can help you narrow down your choice.

• Varta / Johnson Controls / Clarios (Europe & OE): Often the original supplier to Audi, offering an H6/48 AGM with ~70–80 Ah and ~720–800 CCA
• Exide: AGM H6 / LN3 models, typically 70–80 Ah, 720–800 CCA, widely available in Europe and North America
• Interstate / DieHard / Bosch (North America): Group 48 AGM units with 70+ Ah and around 700–760 CCA
• OEM Audi-branded battery: Sold through dealers, usually manufactured by Varta or another major OEM supplier

Choosing a reputable brand with specifications matching the original unit is usually more important than the specific logo on the case, especially if you receive a strong warranty and local support.

Summary

The 2014 Audi S5 generally takes a 12‑volt Group 48 (H6) AGM battery with about 70–80 Ah of capacity and 680–800 CCA, installed in the trunk. Matching the original group size, AGM chemistry, and similar or slightly higher capacity and CCA will keep the S5’s demanding electrical system operating as designed. For best results, owners should verify the exact spec on the existing battery or in the owner’s manual, select a high-quality AGM replacement, and have the new battery coded or registered to the car’s energy management system. This combination of correct specification and proper installation helps ensure strong starting, stable electronics, and a long service life from the replacement battery.