What Size Battery Is in the 2010 Audi Q5?
The factory‑spec battery for most 2010 Audi Q5 models is a 12‑volt battery in the “Group H7 / 94R / LN4” size class, typically around 80 Ah capacity and 800+ CCA, though exact specs vary slightly by engine and equipment package. Choosing a replacement requires matching physical size, terminal layout, and performance ratings so the electrical and start‑stop systems operate correctly.
Contents
Understanding the 2010 Audi Q5 Battery Specification
The 2010 Audi Q5 sits in a generation where Audi standardized many battery dimensions and specs across its midsize vehicles, but with some variation depending on engine and market. While most owners will encounter an H7 (also known as 94R or DIN LN4) size battery, it’s important to understand what that means, and why amperage ratings like CCA and Ah matter for reliable starts and stable electrical performance.
Factory Battery Size and Type
The key battery details for the 2010 Audi Q5 can be broken down into physical size, electrical ratings, and chemistry type. These determine whether a replacement will physically fit and perform correctly under all conditions.
Physical Size (Group / Case Size)
For the majority of 2010 Audi Q5 configurations, Audi specifies a standard European mid‑large battery form factor.
- Primary size: H7 (also referenced as Group 94R in North America)
- DIN designation: LN4 in many European catalogues
- Typical dimensions (approximate): 12.4 in (315 mm) length × 6.9 in (175 mm) width × 7.5 in (190 mm) height
- Terminal layout: Recessed top posts, positive terminal usually on the right when posts are closest to you (94R “reversed” layout)
This list outlines the typical physical battery size designations that match the 2010 Audi Q5.
These H7/94R/LN4 dimensions are crucial: a smaller or different‑layout battery may not secure properly in the tray or may misalign terminals, while an oversized unit can interfere with covers or surrounding components.
Electrical Ratings: CCA and Capacity
Beyond the physical shell, the electrical rating must meet or exceed Audi’s requirements, especially in colder climates or for heavily optioned vehicles with larger electrical loads.
- Voltage: 12 V (standard automotive)
- Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): usually in the 730–850 CCA range; 800+ CCA is common for premium replacements
- Amp‑hour capacity (Ah): generally around 80 Ah; some OEM units fall between 70–95 Ah depending on market and options
- Reserve capacity (RC): often in the 130–160 minute range (not always printed on European‑market labels, but listed in parts catalogues)
The following list summarizes the typical performance ratings you’ll see on a correct 2010 Audi Q5 replacement battery.
Maintaining or slightly exceeding the factory CCA and Ah ratings helps ensure reliable cold starts, stable voltage for electronic systems, and adequate reserve power if lights, heating, or infotainment are used with the engine off.
Battery Chemistry: Standard Flooded vs. AGM
In 2010, many Audi Q5s were delivered with high‑quality flooded lead‑acid batteries, but some markets and trim levels used AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology, especially in vehicles with higher electrical loads.
- Standard flooded lead‑acid:
- Common OEM fitment in many 2010 Q5 models
- Usually lower cost than AGM
- Sufficient for vehicles without heavy accessory loads or sophisticated energy management demands
- AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat):
- Often recommended for premium German vehicles with extensive electronics
- Better vibration resistance and generally longer service life
- Handles deep cycles (frequent short trips, heavy accessory use) more effectively
- Required if the vehicle originally came with AGM; mixing down to flooded can cause issues with charging strategy
This list differentiates the main battery chemistry types compatible with the 2010 Audi Q5 and when each is appropriate.
Matching the original battery type is best practice: if the Q5 came with AGM, replace it with AGM; if it came with flooded, you may upgrade to AGM but should avoid downgrading to a cheaper flooded unit if the car’s energy management expects AGM characteristics.
Engine and Market Variations
While the H7/94R/LN4 size is the dominant fitment, subtle differences appear across engines and regions due to varying power demands and climate expectations.
Common 2010 Audi Q5 Engine Configurations
Battery specifications can vary slightly with the engine because of starting load and regional climate assumptions built into parts catalogues.
- 2.0 TFSI (petrol / gasoline turbo):
- Usually H7/94R/LN4 case
- CCA commonly in the mid‑700 to low‑800 range
- Capacity close to 80 Ah
- 3.2 FSI V6 (petrol / gasoline):
- Also typically H7/94R/LN4
- Often specified with higher CCA within the same case size
- Similar 75–90 Ah range, with premium replacements favoring ~80–95 Ah
- Diesel variants (2.0 TDI, 3.0 TDI in markets outside North America):
- Typically still H7/LN4 class, but often with higher CCA because diesels demand more starting power
- Some regional catalogues can list slightly higher Ah batteries within the same footprint
This list highlights the typical battery expectations by engine family for the 2010 Audi Q5.
Despite these variations, the physical H7/94R format remains consistent, which simplifies shopping: ensure the case size matches, then choose CCA and Ah that meet or exceed your specific engine’s needs.
How to Confirm the Correct Battery for Your Specific Q5
Because catalog data and prior replacements can differ, the most reliable method is to verify what your particular vehicle expects, not just what a generic online listing suggests.
Check the Existing Battery Label
The fastest real‑world reference is often under the hood or in the cargo area, wherever the battery is located in your specific configuration.
- Locate the battery:
- In many Q5s, the battery is under the hood; in some configurations it can be under a cover or trim panel.
- Read the size code:
- Look for “H7,” “94R,” or “LN4” on the label.
- Check the ratings:
- Note CCA (Cold Cranking Amps), commonly 730–850 A.
- Note Ah (Amp‑hours), often around 80 Ah.
- Look for RC (Reserve Capacity) if printed.
- Check chemistry:
- Labels may say AGM, VRLA, or “Absorbent Glass Mat” if AGM.
- Lack of those markings and a removable cap design usually indicate a standard flooded battery.
- Confirm terminal orientation:
- Verify that the positive post is on the correct side for a 94R/H7 when installed.
The following steps explain how to read your current battery to match size and performance accurately.
This direct inspection helps avoid surprises from a previous owner’s non‑standard replacement and ensures you’re matching what currently fits and works in your Q5.
Use the VIN and Official Parts Databases
When in doubt, Audi’s own parts data is the definitive reference and can confirm the original equipment specification for your exact build.
- Call or visit an Audi dealer:
- Provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
- Ask for the OEM battery part number and capacity (Ah and CCA).
- Use reputable online parts catalogues:
- Enter year (2010), model (Q5), engine code, and sometimes VIN.
- Confirm that the recommended size is H7/94R/LN4 or equivalent.
- Compare multiple sources:
- Cross‑check dealer information with premium battery brands’ fitment guides (e.g., Bosch, Varta, Exide, Interstate, etc.).
The following methods show how to verify the correct battery size using your vehicle’s unique identifiers and professional catalogues.
Using the VIN‑based specification reduces the risk of installing an undersized battery that might technically fit but fail to meet Audi’s electrical and cold‑start requirements.
Replacement Considerations and Best Practices
Beyond simply buying “an H7 battery,” owners of a 2010 Audi Q5 need to account for installation, registration, and quality, all of which affect reliability and electronics behavior.
Battery Registration and Coding
Although the 2010 Q5’s software is not as demanding as newer models, many examples are equipped with energy management systems that track battery condition and charging strategy. In some cases, replacing the battery ideally involves a scan tool.
- Energy management system:
- Monitors battery health and adjusts charging to prolong life.
- Battery registration:
- Some Q5s benefit from having a new battery “registered” using a diagnostic tool (VCDS, ODIS, or similar).
- This step tells the control module that a new battery with fresh capacity is installed.
- Incorrect or unregistered batteries:
- Can lead to sub‑optimal charging, shorter battery life, or warning messages.
- Professional installation:
- Specialists familiar with Audi systems can both install and code/register the battery properly.
This list outlines what to consider regarding electronic registration or coding when you replace the battery.
While some owners report using drop‑in replacements without coding, following the proper registration procedure gives the best chance of long‑term reliability and correct system behavior.
Quality and Brand Choices
Not all H7/94R batteries are created equal; brand reputation and warranty terms can be decisive in a vehicle with many power‑hungry systems.
- Reputable European‑focused brands:
- Varta, Bosch, Exide, Banner, and similar manufacturers often supply OEM or equivalent units.
- North American equivalents:
- Interstate, DieHard, Duralast Platinum (AGM), and others offer Group 94R options.
- Warranty:
- Look for at least a 3‑year full replacement warranty on AGM or premium flooded units.
- Match or exceed OEM specs:
- Choose CCA and Ah that meet or surpass Audi’s original numbers, within the H7/94R size.
The following points summarize what to look for when choosing a brand and specific model of replacement battery.
Balancing price, warranty, and brand reputation is key: in a 2010 Audi Q5, cutting corners on battery quality can translate into start problems and electronic glitches that far outweigh any savings.
Summary
For the 2010 Audi Q5, the correct battery is almost always a 12‑volt unit in the H7 / Group 94R / LN4 size class, with typical ratings around 80 Ah and 730–850 CCA, and chemistry matching the original (flooded lead‑acid or AGM). While this standard footprint is widely available, owners should still verify the existing battery’s label and, ideally, confirm specifications using the VIN through an Audi dealer or trusted parts catalogue. Matching case size, terminal orientation, and electrical ratings—and, where applicable, registering the new battery with the vehicle’s energy management system—ensures reliable starting performance and stable operation of the Q5’s electronics.
