What Size Battery Is in the 2012 Audi A4?

The 2012 Audi A4 typically uses a 12‑volt AGM battery in **Group Size H7 (also known as 94R)**, with a capacity around **80 Ah** and **about 800 CCA**, though exact specifications can vary slightly by engine, equipment, and market. This article explains the standard battery size, the variations you may encounter, and how to confirm the correct replacement for your specific A4.

Standard Battery Specification for the 2012 Audi A4

For most 2012 Audi A4 models sold in North America and Europe, the standard battery is an **AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) 12 V battery** in the **H7 / 94R group size**. This is a mid‑to‑large format European‑style battery commonly used in modern German sedans with higher electrical loads.

Core Specs Most Owners Will Encounter

While there can be small differences between brands, dealerships, and regional markets, most 2012 Audi A4 batteries share a set of baseline characteristics that define what is considered “correct fit” for the car.

• Battery type: AGM (recommended and usually factory‑equipped)
• Group size: H7 / 94R (DIN/EN style case, reversed terminals)
• Nominal voltage: 12 V
• Capacity (Ah): typically around 80 Ah (often 70–80 Ah range)
• Cold Cranking Amps (CCA): usually about 760–800 CCA, depending on brand
• Location: trunk (right side, under trim panel, in most configurations)

These specifications provide the baseline for choosing a compatible replacement: a 12 V AGM battery in H7/94R form factor with similar capacity and CCA will generally meet Audi’s requirements for the 2012 A4.

Why the H7 / 94R Battery Size Matters

The physical “size” of a battery isn’t just about dimensions; it also covers terminal layout, hold‑down design, and performance capacity. The H7/94R designation standardizes these elements so the battery fits the 2012 A4’s mounting tray and connects safely to its electrical system.

Dimensions and Fitment Details

Battery group H7 (94R) refers to a specific case size and terminal configuration used widely on European vehicles. Understanding these dimensions helps ensure a replacement will physically fit and secure correctly.

• Approximate dimensions: about 12.4 in (315 mm) long, 6.9 in (175 mm) wide, 7.5 in (190 mm) high
• Terminal layout: “R” indicates reversed terminals; positive and negative posts are opposite some similar group sizes
• Hold‑down: bottom lip/flange designed for standard European‑style clamp in the Audi’s battery tray
• Weight: commonly in the 50–60 lb (22–27 kg) range due to AGM construction and capacity

Matching these dimensions and terminal positions is crucial; using the wrong case size or layout can lead to cable strain, poor mounting, or even short circuits.

Variations by Engine, Trim, and Equipment

Although H7/94R AGM is the go‑to size for a 2012 Audi A4, fine‑grained differences can appear depending on engine type and factory options such as advanced infotainment or higher‑output climate systems.

Common 2012 Audi A4 Configurations

Different drivetrains and regional packages can slightly alter the ideal battery capacity, though they typically stay within the same physical group size.

• 2.0 TFSI (petrol/gasoline) models: commonly factory‑equipped with an ~80 Ah AGM, H7/94R
• 2.0 TDI and other diesel variants (where offered): still usually H7/94R, sometimes with higher CCA for colder climates
• Quattro vs. front‑wheel drive: both usually share the same size; differences are more about capacity/CCA than physical dimensions
• High‑option cars (navigation, premium audio, heated seats, etc.): often specified with higher‑capacity AGM units within the same H7 format

While nearly all trims converge on the H7 group, the precise Ah rating and CCA can vary, which is why checking your existing battery label or build data is still recommended.

AGM vs. Conventional Lead‑Acid: What the A4 Was Designed For

A 2012 Audi A4’s electrical system is engineered with advanced load management in mind, which is one reason many of these cars are fitted from the factory with AGM batteries rather than simple flooded lead‑acid units.

Why AGM Is Typically Recommended

AGM batteries differ from traditional flooded lead‑acid designs in how the electrolyte is held and how they cope with modern automotive demands, such as frequent short trips and high accessory loads.

• Deep‑cycle resilience: AGM handles repeated partial discharges better, which suits modern cars with many electronics
• Low internal resistance: improves cold‑start performance and charging efficiency
• Vibration resistance: more robust for trunk mounting and long‑term reliability
• Spill‑proof design: safer for interior/trunk placement, reducing risk of acid leaks

For these reasons, replacing an original AGM battery with another AGM in the same size is strongly advised, rather than downgrading to a conventional flooded unit.

How to Confirm the Correct Battery for Your Specific Car

Because production changes and regional differences can exist, the most reliable way to determine the exact battery size and specs for your specific 2012 A4 is to verify them directly on the car or via official Audi documentation.

Steps Owners Can Take

Checking a few key sources ensures that you match not only the physical size but also the performance rating Audi intended for your specific VIN and configuration.

1. Inspect the existing battery label: Look for group size (H7/94R), Ah rating, CCA, and battery type (AGM).
2. Check the owner’s manual: The electrical or maintenance section usually lists recommended specifications by engine and equipment.
3. Use VIN‑based lookup: Dealer parts counters and major battery retailers can look up the exact spec for your VIN.
4. Confirm trunk mounting space: Verify your current battery’s physical dimensions if a prior owner may have installed a non‑standard size.
5. Ask an Audi dealer or specialist: For cars with unusual options or retrofit electronics, a specialist can advise on suitable capacity.

Following these steps reduces the risk of installing an under‑ or over‑sized battery that might affect reliability or strain the charging system.

Battery Replacement Considerations for the 2012 Audi A4

Swapping a battery in a modern Audi involves more than simply disconnecting and reconnecting cables; some models expect the new battery to be electronically “registered” so the charging system can adapt.

Key Points When Replacing the Battery

Proper replacement helps maintain battery life, ensure accurate charge management, and avoid electrical glitches in comfort and convenience systems.

• Use the same or equivalent H7/94R AGM: Match capacity (Ah) and CCA as closely as possible to the factory spec.
• Battery registration/coding: Many Audi models of this era benefit from coding the new battery using diagnostic tools (VCDS, ODIS, etc.) so the energy management system knows its age and capacity.
• Maintain power during swap (if possible): Using a memory saver can help avoid loss of radio presets and some module adaptations.
• Secure mounting and venting: Ensure the battery is clamped correctly and any vent tubes (if present) are properly connected.

Attending to these details ensures that the new H7/94R AGM battery performs as intended and integrates smoothly with the A4’s electronics.

Summary

The 2012 Audi A4 is generally equipped with a **12 V AGM battery in Group Size H7 (94R)**, typically around **80 Ah** with **roughly 760–800 CCA**, mounted in the trunk. While minor variations in capacity and CCA may occur by engine and equipment level, the physical size and AGM type are consistent across most models. For an accurate replacement, owners should confirm the label on the existing battery, reference the owner’s manual or VIN‑based parts lookup, and, where applicable, have the new battery properly registered in the vehicle’s energy management system.