Where Is the Battery on a 2013 Audi?

On most 2013 Audi models, the main 12‑volt battery is located in the trunk (boot), usually on the right-hand side under the floor panel, while on some smaller models it is under the hood near the firewall; the exact location depends on the specific model (A4, A5, A6, Q5, etc.). This article explains how to identify where the battery is on different 2013 Audi vehicles, why Audi positions batteries in these places, and what to know before accessing or replacing it.

Why Battery Location Varies by Audi Model

In the 2013 Audi lineup, battery placement is driven by engineering decisions around weight distribution, cabin space, and safety. Sedans and larger models typically house the battery in the trunk, while compact cars more often keep it in the engine bay. Understanding these differences helps owners find the battery quickly and avoid damaging trim or electronics while searching for it.

Battery Location by Major 2013 Audi Models

2013 Audi A4 and S4 (B8.5)

For the facelifted 2013 A4 and S4, Audi moved firmly toward trunk-mounted battery setups for better balance and packaging. Owners sometimes assume the battery is under the hood because of visible jump-start terminals there, but the main battery is not in the engine bay.

The list below outlines where to find the battery on 2013 A4 and S4 models and how it is typically secured.

• Primary location: Trunk, right-hand side, beneath the removable floor panel and/or side trim.
• Access method: Lift the trunk floor cover; on some trims, remove a small side panel or carpeting on the right to reveal the battery compartment.
• Mounting: Battery is held by a metal or plastic hold-down bracket at the base and may be partially enclosed in a protective casing.
• Jump-start points: Under the hood, Audi provides designated positive and negative jump terminals; these connect to the trunk battery via heavy cables.

Once you know to look in the trunk, access to the A4/S4 battery is straightforward, and the under-hood jump posts mean the trunk often doesn’t need to be opened for routine boosting.

2013 Audi A5 / S5 / RS5

The 2013 A5 family shares much of its architecture with the A4, which includes a similar approach to battery placement. Coupes and cabriolets use the trunk area to keep battery weight centered and low.

The following list details the typical battery layout for 2013 A5, S5 and RS5 models.

• Primary location: Trunk (boot), usually beneath the main floor panel, on the right-hand side or centrally under a large cover.
• Coupes vs. cabriolets: Both typically have trunk-mounted batteries, but convertibles may integrate the battery under a slightly different shaped cover due to roof mechanism packaging.
• Protection: Battery is often shielded by a molded cover or foam insert to protect against luggage impact.
• Access tools: Normally no tools are needed to lift the floor panel, but a socket or wrench is required to loosen the hold-down clamp if removing the battery.

This arrangement keeps the A5 platform’s handling predictable while maintaining a clean engine bay, but it does mean owners must work in the trunk space for any full battery replacement.

2013 Audi A6 / S6 and A7 / S7

On the larger C7-based A6 and A7 models, Audi uses a more complex electrical layout, often including additional modules and, in some variants, auxiliary batteries for start-stop or advanced systems. The main 12-volt battery, however, is still relatively easy to locate once you know where to look.

The list below breaks down typical main battery positions for 2013 A6/S6 and A7/S7 models.

• Primary location: Trunk, usually on the right side under the floor panel and/or a plastic service cover.
• Hybrid/advanced systems: On models with hybrid systems or more complex electrics (where offered in some markets), there may be a high-voltage battery elsewhere, but the standard 12‑volt battery for general electrics remains in or near the trunk.
• Jump points: Under-hood jump-start terminals are commonly provided; check near the firewall or wiper cowl area.
• Trim removal: Some configurations require unclipping side trunk trim to see the entire battery and cabling.

Even with added electronics, Audi keeps primary service access to the 12‑volt battery relatively conventional: under the trunk floor, behind removable coverings.

2013 Audi Q5 and SQ5

The 2013 Q5 compact SUV uses a layout that balances practicality with vehicle dynamics. Unlike some sedans, a number of Q5 models keep the battery in the engine bay, making it more obvious to owners opening the hood.

The list below summarizes where to locate the battery on most 2013 Q5 and SQ5 versions.

• Typical location: Engine bay, near the firewall on the passenger side (left- or right-hand drive markets may mirror sides, but it is usually at the back of the engine compartment).
• Appearance: Covered by a plastic battery cover; labeled and integrated near the brake fluid reservoir in many configurations.
• Trunk area: Some diesel or special variants in certain markets may place the battery in the rear, but this is less common than the under-hood layout.
• Access ease: Under-hood placement means simpler jump-starting and replacement, but care is still required due to tight packaging around the engine.

Because the Q5 is an SUV with more vertical space under the hood, Audi can fit the battery there without major compromises, differing from some sedan and coupe designs.

2013 Audi Q7

The larger Q7 SUV, built on a different platform, uses a more distributed electrical system, including a distinctive battery placement that can surprise first-time owners.

The following list outlines the usual Q7 battery configuration around the 2013 model year.

• Primary location: Under the passenger-side front seat or under the floor just behind it, depending on market and configuration.
• Access method: Move the seat fully forward and/or up, then remove a trim panel or floor cover to expose the battery compartment.
• Jump-start terminals: Accessible under the hood so that everyday boosting does not require removing interior panels.
• Auxiliary power: Some Q7s may include additional power modules or smaller auxiliary batteries, but the main 12‑volt unit is typically under or near the front seat.

This interior-based placement helps protect the battery from extreme temperatures and road splash, but it does require more careful trim handling when accessing it for replacement.

2013 Audi A3 (8P) and TT (8J)

On the smaller 2013 A3 and TT models, Audi tends to use a more traditional engine-bay battery location, due partly to tighter packaging and simpler electrical demands compared to larger luxury models.

The list below describes where owners of 2013 A3 and TT cars will usually find their batteries.

• Primary location: Under the hood, near the front of the engine bay, typically on the driver’s side or slightly offset toward the center.
• Visibility: The battery is generally easy to see once the hood is open, often under a snap-on or clip-on plastic cover.
• Space constraints: While access is straightforward, nearby air boxes or engine covers may need to be removed for full clearance.
• Jump-starting: Because the battery is in the engine bay, separate jump terminals are less critical; clamps usually connect directly to the battery posts.

For these more compact models, an under-hood battery reduces complexity and makes servicing simpler for owners and independent garages alike.

How to Confirm the Exact Location for Your 2013 Audi

Because of regional variations, engine choices, and special trims, there can be exceptions to these general rules. Confirming your battery’s location in your exact vehicle should be done before attempting any work, especially if you are not seeing the battery where you expect it to be.

The list below explains reliable ways to verify where your specific 2013 Audi’s battery is installed.

1. Check the owner’s manual: Look under sections titled “Battery,” “Jump-starting,” or “Emergency starting” for diagrams and exact locations.
2. Inspect the trunk floor: Lift any removable floor panels and look for a plastic or metal cover on the right or center area, particularly on A4, A5, A6, and A7 models.
3. Open the hood and look for jump terminals: If you see red positive and marked negative posts but no obvious large battery, that usually means the main battery is in the trunk or cabin.
4. Look under or around front seats (for Q7): Slide seats fully forward/back and check for removable panels or covers on the floor.
5. Consult VIN-specific information: Manufacturer service portals or dealer service advisors can look up configuration details for your VIN to confirm placement.

By verifying through documentation and a quick physical inspection, you can pinpoint your battery’s location without unnecessary disassembly or guesswork.

Important Precautions Before Accessing the Battery

Modern Audis, including 2013 models, use sensitive electronics and energy management systems, so improper battery handling can create problems that go beyond a simple no-start condition. Taking precautions before disconnecting or replacing the battery is crucial.

The list below summarizes key safety and technical steps to consider when working around the battery in a 2013 Audi.

1. Turn everything off: Ensure ignition is off, key is removed, and doors are closed (or door latches manually closed) to reduce current draw.
2. Use proper tools and eye protection: Batteries contain acid and can off-gas; wear gloves and eye protection and use insulated tools where possible.
3. Disconnect negative terminal first: Remove the negative (–) cable before the positive (+) to reduce risk of short circuits against bodywork.
4. Be aware of coding requirements: Many Audis require the new battery to be “registered” or coded via diagnostic software (e.g., VCDS or dealer tools) so the energy management system knows the battery type and age.
5. Maintain voltage if possible: Using a memory saver or auxiliary power supply can preserve radio codes, window settings, and some control unit adaptations during replacement.

Taking these steps minimizes the risk of damaging control modules or losing critical settings and helps ensure the new battery operates correctly within Audi’s energy management system.

Summary

For a 2013 Audi, the battery is most often in the trunk on sedans and coupes such as the A4, A5, A6, and A7; under the hood on compact models like the A3, TT, and many Q5s; and under or near the front seat on the Q7. Under-hood jump-start terminals in many models can be misleading, as they connect to a remotely mounted battery in the trunk or cabin. The surest way to confirm the exact position is to consult the owner’s manual, inspect the trunk floor and under-hood area, and, where applicable, check under the front seats. When accessing or replacing the battery, owners should follow basic safety steps and be aware that many 2013 Audis require electronic registration of a new battery for proper long-term operation.