What size battery does a Honda Fit use?
For most Honda Fit models sold in the U.S. and Canada (model years 2007–2020), the correct 12‑volt replacement is a BCI Group 151R battery with reverse terminals; many owners also upgrade to a slightly larger Group 51R with a tray/hold‑down swap. Below, we explain fitment by model year, key specs, and how to confirm the right battery for your specific car and market.
Contents
The quick specs most owners need
If you’re replacing the 12‑volt battery in a North American Honda Fit, these are the common sizes and specs you’ll encounter and why they matter.
- Primary fitment (US/Canada 2007–2020): BCI Group 151R, 12 V, reverse polarity (positive post on right)
- Typical dimensions (151R): about 8.94″ L × 5.06″ W × 8.75″ H (227 × 129 × 222 mm)
- Typical ratings (151R): 325–410 CCA; 40–70 minutes reserve capacity, depending on brand
- Common upgrade: BCI Group 51R (slightly longer), usually requires a different tray/hold‑down; offers higher CCA/RC
- Battery type: Flooded lead‑acid is standard; AGM/EFB only if specified (e.g., some start‑stop or hybrid/Jazz markets)
These specs cover the vast majority of routine replacements. Always match terminal orientation and physical size to ensure the leads reach correctly and the hold‑down clamps secure the case.
Year-by-year and market notes
This breakdown helps you match the battery group to your model year and region, and flags exceptions such as hybrid or start‑stop variants found outside North America.
- 2007–2008 Honda Fit (US/Canada): BCI Group 151R
- 2009–2014 Honda Fit (US/Canada): BCI Group 151R
- 2015–2020 Honda Fit (US/Canada): BCI Group 151R; some owners retrofit 51R with tray/hold‑down change
- Honda Fit/Jazz with idle‑stop or hybrid systems (markets outside North America): often require EFB or AGM in a region‑specific size; check the under‑hood label and owner’s manual
- Fourth‑generation Honda Jazz (2020–present, markets outside North America): uses a 12‑V auxiliary battery sized to regional standards (commonly a compact DIN/JIS unit); follow the vehicle label/manual for the exact type
Because battery standards differ by market (BCI in North America, JIS/DIN elsewhere), the safest approach outside the U.S./Canada is to read the existing battery label and confirm the exact spec in the owner’s manual.
How to confirm the correct battery on your car
Before you buy, these quick checks will help you verify compatibility and avoid returns.
- Read the existing battery’s label: Look for “151R” or “51R” (BCI) in North America, or a JIS/DIN code elsewhere.
- Check terminal orientation: The Fit typically uses reverse terminals (positive on the right when posts face you).
- Measure the tray and hold‑down: Ensure length, width, and height match; 51R is longer than 151R.
- Match battery technology: If your car has start‑stop or is a hybrid/Jazz variant, use the specified EFB/AGM type.
- Verify CCA for climate: Colder regions benefit from higher CCA within the correct group size.
A few minutes of verification saves time and ensures the posts line up, the cables reach, and the battery clamps secure the case correctly.
Replacement and upgrade tips
These practical pointers cover installation details and considerations if you’re moving from 151R to 51R for more capacity.
- Hold‑down hardware: A 51R typically requires a 51R‑specific tray and clamp to secure the longer case.
- Cable reach: Confirm the positive lead comfortably reaches the right‑side post without strain.
- Electrical memory: Use a memory saver if you want to preserve radio presets and window auto‑up/down calibration.
- Terminal torque: Tighten clamps snugly (about 5–7 N·m/45–60 in‑lb) to avoid loose connections without damaging posts.
- Corrosion prevention: Clean terminals and apply dielectric grease or protectant to reduce future buildup.
- Warranty and spec: Choose a reputable brand with a clear warranty and meet or exceed OE CCA/RC ratings.
Following these tips helps ensure a secure installation, reliable starts, and longer battery life—especially if you opt for a higher‑capacity upgrade.
When to consider AGM or EFB
AGM or EFB batteries are typically only necessary if your specific Fit/Jazz is equipped with start‑stop or specified for enhanced cycling by the manufacturer. In standard U.S./Canada gasoline Fits without start‑stop, a quality flooded 151R is sufficient, while AGM can be an optional durability upgrade for short‑trip or high‑accessory use.
Bottom line
For U.S. and Canadian Honda Fits from 2007–2020, a BCI Group 151R 12‑volt battery with reverse terminals is the direct replacement; a Group 51R can be used with the correct tray/hold‑down for more capacity. Outside North America, verify the region‑specific JIS/DIN size and, for start‑stop or hybrid variants, use the specified EFB or AGM type.
Summary
Most Honda Fits in North America take a BCI Group 151R battery (reverse terminals), with common ratings around 325–410 CCA. A Group 51R is a popular capacity upgrade if you also change the tray/hold‑down. For non‑U.S./Canada models—especially start‑stop or hybrid Jazz variants—confirm the exact JIS/DIN size and battery technology (EFB/AGM) listed on the under‑hood label and in the owner’s manual.
What size battery is in a 2011 Honda Fit?
The standard battery size for a 2011 Honda Fit is a Group Size 151R. This battery features a specific physical size, has a top post terminal, and typically offers around 340 Cold Cranking Amps. Some alternative batteries, like the 51R, are mentioned as possibilities but require modifications for proper fitment.
Key Specifications for the Group Size 151R Battery:
- Group Size: 151R
- Terminal Type: Top Post
- Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): Approximately 340 CCA
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Physical Dimensions: Roughly 8-3/4 inches (H) x 7-3/4 inches (L) x 5-1/8 inches (W)
Important Considerations:
- Confirm Fitment: While 151R is the standard, it’s always best to use the battery fitment tool provided by an auto parts store to confirm compatibility with your specific vehicle’s year and engine type.
- Potential Alternatives: While a Group Size 51R battery is sometimes suggested, installing one may require physical modifications to your car’s battery tray to accommodate its slightly different dimensions.
- Genuine Honda Parts: For a guaranteed exact fit, consider purchasing a genuine Honda battery from a dealer, as they may offer a part number specifically for the 2011 Fit.
What size battery does a 2013 Honda Fit take?
When it’s time for a replacement, the battery for your 2013 Honda Fit will belong to group size 151R with 370 CCA.
What kind of battery does a 2009 Honda Fit take?
The 2009 Honda Fit requires a battery with Group Size 151R. This is a specific size and configuration that is essential for a proper fit in the vehicle’s battery tray. It’s also important to match or exceed the original battery’s Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) for optimal performance.
Key specifications for a 2009 Honda Fit battery:
- Group Size: 151R
- Battery Type: Typically a standard flooded lead-acid battery, though AGM batteries may also be an option.
- Terminal Location: Top Post, with the positive terminal on the top right.
- Dimensions: Approximately 7-3/4″ L x 5-1/8″ W x 8-3/4″ H.
- CCA: Around 340-370 CCA.
Where to find the right battery:
You can use online tools from auto parts retailers like O’Reilly Auto Parts, AutoZone, and Advance Auto Parts to confirm the correct battery for your 2009 Honda Fit. Simply input your vehicle’s year, make, and model to find compatible options.
What group size battery is in a 2007 Honda Fit?
size 151R
Size is the biggest factor to consider when shopping for a car battery because it determines whether or not it will fit under the hood and provide enough voltage to start the engine. For this reason, a 2007 Honda Fit car battery replacement should belong to group size 151R.