What Size Battery Is in a 2016 Honda Accord?
Most 2016 Honda Accords with the 2.4L four‑cylinder use a BCI Group 51R 12‑volt battery, while V6 models use a larger BCI Group 24F. The 51R typically delivers around 410–500+ CCA, and the 24F about 550–750+ CCA. Both were supplied as flooded lead‑acid units from the factory, though AGM upgrades are available. Always confirm by checking the label on your existing battery or the owner’s manual for your exact trim.
Contents
Factory Battery Sizes by Engine
The specific battery group depends on the engine in your 2016 Accord. Here’s how the factory fitment breaks down for U.S.-market models.
- 2.4L inline‑four (most LX, Sport, EX, EX‑L): BCI Group 51R (right‑hand positive), typically 410–500+ CCA, reserve capacity around 70–85 minutes.
- 3.5L V6 (EX‑L V6, Touring V6): BCI Group 24F (left‑hand positive), typically 550–750+ CCA, reserve capacity around 100–130 minutes.
These group sizes are not interchangeable without changing trays/hold‑downs and cable routing; stick to the specified group for your engine to ensure proper fit, cable reach, and hold‑down security.
Key Dimensions and Specs
Battery “group size” dictates the case dimensions and terminal layout. The measurements below help you verify a correct physical fit.
- Group 51R dimensions: about 9.37 x 5.06 x 8.75 in (238 x 129 x 222 mm); positive terminal on the right.
- Group 24F dimensions: about 10.25 x 6.81 x 8.88 in (260 x 173 x 225 mm); positive terminal on the left.
- Type: OEM batteries are flooded lead‑acid; AGM (absorbed glass mat) versions in the same group are a common upgrade for heavier electrical loads.
While exact cold‑cranking amps vary by brand, choosing a higher CCA within the correct group can improve cold‑weather starts without fitment issues.
How to Confirm What Your Car Has
If you’re unsure which battery group your Accord needs, a few quick checks will confirm the correct size for your specific car.
- Look at the existing battery label for the BCI group (e.g., “51R” or “24F”).
- Check the owner’s manual under Maintenance/Battery for your engine’s specified group size.
- Measure the battery tray and confirm hold‑down style and terminal reach before purchasing.
- Use a reputable fitment guide; select year (2016), body style (sedan/coupe), engine (2.4L or 3.5L), and trim.
Confirming fitment prevents return hassles and ensures the terminals align correctly without stretching or crossing cables.
Replacement Tips and Recommendations
When replacing the battery, a few choices and steps can improve reliability and avoid electrical quirks.
- Cold climates: opt for higher CCA within your group size for better winter starts.
- Electrical load: consider an AGM 51R or 24F if you run accessories (heated seats, audio upgrades) or do frequent short trips.
- System reset: the 2016 Accord doesn’t require formal “battery registration,” but a Battery Management System (BMS) reset is recommended after replacement (dealer scan tool or manual procedure). Preserve memory with a 12V saver if needed.
- Warranty: look for at least a 3‑year free replacement warranty from a reputable brand.
These steps help match the battery to your driving conditions and keep the charging system managing the new unit correctly.
What About the Accord Hybrid?
Honda did not sell a U.S.‑market Accord Hybrid for model year 2016 (it returned for 2017). If you have a 2016 Hybrid in another market, the 12‑volt battery specification may differ and could require an AGM unit; consult the regional owner’s manual or a dealer with your VIN to verify.
Summary
For a 2016 Honda Accord, four‑cylinder models take a BCI Group 51R battery and V6 models take a Group 24F. Stick to the correct group for proper fit and terminal orientation, choose adequate CCA for your climate, and consider an AGM upgrade if your driving places heavier demands on the electrical system. Always confirm by checking your current battery label or the owner’s manual.
What size battery is in the 2016 Honda Accord?
The standard battery group size for a 2016 Honda Accord depends on the engine, with the 4-cylinder model requiring a Group 51R and the V6 model requiring a Group 35 or a Group 24F battery. The 51R is a smaller battery designed for the 4-cylinder, while the Group 35 and 24F are larger, more powerful options suitable for the V6 model.
Engine-Specific Battery Sizes
- 4-Cylinder: The standard battery size is a Group 51R, which is a compact battery designed for the 4-cylinder engine’s battery tray.
- V6: The V6 model uses a larger battery, typically a Group 35 or a Group 24F, which provides more power.
Considering Upgrades
- Upgrade Option: For the 4-cylinder model, you can often install a Group 35 battery if there is enough space in the battery tray, providing increased performance.
- Common Size: Group 35 batteries are a common size and can sometimes be more readily available than the 51R.
What size battery for 2016 Honda Fit?
The standard battery for a 2016 Honda Fit is a Group Size 151R. While the original 151R battery is often considered small, it’s possible to upgrade to a larger Group Size 51R battery, though this requires some modification or replacement of the battery tray to ensure a secure fit and proper installation.
Group Size 151R
- The OEM size: The 151R is the standard, original equipment manufacturer (OEM) battery size for the 2016 Honda Fit.
- Specifications: These batteries typically have dimensions around 7.75 inches long, 5.125 inches wide, and 8.75 inches high, and are a top-post battery design.
Group Size 51R
- A popular upgrade: Many owners find the 151R battery to be inadequate and opt to replace it with a larger 51R battery for better performance and availability.
- Benefits: 51R batteries are often cheaper, more readily available, and offer greater cranking amps and reserve capacity.
- Modifications: To install a 51R battery, you may need to modify the battery tray by cutting out sections, or purchase an aftermarket tray to accommodate the larger battery.
What size battery does a Honda Accord need?
The Honda Accord uses a variety of battery sizes depending on the model year and engine type. Common sizes include Group 51R, 24F, and H6/48. Some older models, especially with 4-cylinder engines, may use Group 51R, while V6 models and newer Accords often utilize Group 24F or H6/48.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
- Group Size 51R: Frequently found in older 4-cylinder Honda Accords.
- Group Size 24F: Common for V6 models and some 4-cylinder versions.
- Group Size H6/48: Used in some newer Accords, particularly those with larger engines or requiring higher cold cranking amps.
- Other sizes: Some models may also use Group 35 or Group 47/H5.
Factors to consider when choosing a battery:
- Engine size: 4-cylinder engines often have different battery requirements than V6 or turbocharged engines.
- Model year: Newer Accords may have different battery requirements than older ones due to increased electrical demands.
- Climate: If you live in a cold climate, a battery with higher cold cranking amps (CCA) may be necessary.
- Battery type: Flooded lead-acid batteries, Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB), and Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are available, each with different performance characteristics.
Recommendation:
- Consult your owner’s manual: The most reliable information about your specific Accord’s battery size and requirements can be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
- Check the battery itself: The current battery in your Accord will have a label indicating its size and specifications.
- Use a battery finder: Many online retailers and battery manufacturers offer tools that allow you to enter your vehicle’s information to find the correct battery size, according to OPTIMA Batteries.
What is the difference between 35 and 51R battery?
The 35 and 51R are different sizes of car batteries, with the “R” typically indicating the positive terminal is on the right side when viewed from the front. The Group 35 battery is generally larger and has more capacity than the Group 51R. While both can be used in some vehicles, it’s crucial to ensure the battery fits the tray and that the terminal positions are compatible or adaptable.
This video explains the difference between 35 and 51R batteries and demonstrates how to upgrade from a 51R to a 35 in a Honda Accord: 59sWorse Than ChiggersYouTube · Feb 15, 2016
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Group 35 Battery:
- Size: Larger than the 51R, typically around 230mm x 175mm x 225mm (length, width, height).
- Capacity: Generally has higher Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and reserve capacity, meaning it can provide more power, especially in cold weather.
- Terminal Placement: Can be either left or right, depending on the specific battery model (e.g., 35R has the positive terminal on the right).
- Applications: Often used in vehicles with larger engines or in situations where more power is needed, such as in colder climates.
Group 51R Battery:
- Size: Smaller than the 35, typically around 238mm x 129mm x 223mm.
- Capacity: Has less CCA and reserve capacity compared to the Group 35.
- Terminal Placement: The “R” indicates the positive terminal is on the right when viewed from the front.
- Applications: Commonly found in smaller vehicles, particularly those with four-cylinder engines, and in some Japanese cars.
This video demonstrates the cold start capability of a car with a 51R battery and then with a 35 battery, highlighting the difference in power: 59sganzonomyYouTube · Sep 5, 2021
Key Considerations for Using Different Battery Sizes:
- Compatibility: Ensure the battery physically fits the battery tray in your vehicle and that the cables can reach the terminals without excessive stretching.
- Hold-Down: Make sure the battery is securely held down by the battery tray and hold-down bracket to prevent it from shifting during driving.
- Terminal Orientation: If switching from a 51R to a 35, check the terminal orientation. If the terminals are reversed, you may need a 35R battery or adapt the cables.
- Power Requirements: Consider the power needs of your vehicle. If you live in a cold climate or have a vehicle with high power demands, the larger Group 35 battery might be a better choice, according to a Reddit thread.