How Much Does Car Battery Cost in The UK 2025?
Typically A car battery cost between £70 and £200 in 2025, depending on battery type and vehicle.
Whether your battery has failed or is showing signs of age, understanding the car battery cost in the UK for 2025 is essential. This guide breaks down average prices, what to expect, and how to save money on this common automotive service.
Average Car Battery Cost Inc. fitting in the UK
The cost of replacing a car battery depends on the vehicle make, battery type, and whether you choose professional installation. Below is a breakdown of typical prices you can expect in 2025:
| Service | Average Cost (UK) |
|---|---|
| Standard battery (small car) | £70–£100 |
| AGM battery (stop-start cars) | £120–£160 |
| EFB battery (fuel-saving models) | £100–£140 |
| High-performance batteries (SUVs, premium cars) | £150–£200 |
| Mobile fitting service | +£20–£40 |
Real UK Garage Prices — Correct as of 9th July 2025
| Location | Average Price | Garage / Source |
|---|---|---|
| England (Kwik Fit) | £93–£128 | Kwik Fit |
| Scotland (Glasgow, FixMyCar) | £170.11 (fitting only) / £217.37 (with replacement) | FixMyCar |
| England (Motorway estimate) | £50–£150 (lead‑acid) / £100–£300 (AGM/gel) | Motorway |
| National UK average | £100–£400 | FixMyCar advice |
| Forum quote (UK) | ~£160–£180 | Reddit r/britishproblems |
| National (NimbleFins) | £162–£460 | NimbleFins |
Prices vary by battery type (lead‑acid vs AGM/gel), service level (fitting only vs battery + fitting), location, and warranty. Always confirm with your local garage for an accurate quote.
What’s Included in a Car Battery Replacement?
- Removal and safe disposal of old battery
- Supply and fitting of a new battery
- Testing of the new battery and vehicle’s charging system
- Warranty on parts (typically 2–5 years)
- Optional diagnostics or alternator checks (some garages)
How to Save Money on Car Battery Replacement
- Shop around – Get quotes from multiple local garages and national chains
- Buy the battery online – Then pay separately for fitting
- DIY replacement – If you’re confident and your car doesn’t require reprogramming
- Look for mobile fitting deals – Some services waive call-out fees
- Use discount codes – Especially from online automotive retailers
FAQs
How do I know if my car battery needs replacing?
If your car struggles to start in the morning, or if you hear a clicking noise when turning the ignition, your battery could be on its last legs. Additional signs include dimming headlights, power windows moving slowly, or electronics behaving erratically. A dashboard battery warning light is another red flag. It’s a good idea to get a battery health check if your battery is older than 3–4 years, especially in colder months when failures are more common.
Can I replace a car battery myself?
Yes, you can replace a car battery yourself if your vehicle allows for a straightforward swap. Most older or simpler cars let you disconnect the old battery and connect the new one in minutes. However, many modern vehicles require coding or registration using a diagnostic tool to pair the new battery with the vehicle’s ECU. Without proper registration, warning lights may stay on, or systems like stop-start may malfunction. Always check your owner’s manual and wear safety gear when attempting a DIY replacement.
How long do car batteries last in the UK?
Typically, car batteries in the UK last between 3 to 5 years. However, various factors can shorten or extend this lifespan. Frequent short journeys, especially in urban environments, prevent the battery from fully charging. Extreme temperatures—both hot and cold—can also degrade battery performance. Leaving interior lights on overnight or infrequently using the car contributes to early battery failure. Regular testing and driving habits can significantly influence how long your battery lasts.
Does Halfords replace car batteries?
Yes, Halfords is one of the UK’s leading retailers and service centres for car maintenance and does offer car battery replacement services. They provide both in-store fitting and a mobile fitting option that comes to your home or workplace. Prices vary by battery type and vehicle, but expect to pay anywhere from £85 to £200 including fitting. Halfords also provides a guarantee on batteries—usually between 3 to 5 years—and many of their stores offer free battery health checks.
What is the cost of replacing a car battery at home?
If you buy a battery separately—either online or from an auto parts retailer—and opt for home installation, you can save a considerable amount. Mobile mechanics in the UK generally charge an additional £20 to £40 for call-out and fitting services. DIY enthusiasts who have the tools and knowledge can avoid these costs entirely. However, it’s important to follow the correct procedure to prevent electrical surges, and to make sure your new battery matches your car’s specifications, including size, power rating, and terminal layout.
Is the car battery covered under warranty?
Yes, most new car batteries come with a warranty ranging from 2 to 5 years depending on the brand and model. This warranty generally covers manufacturer defects and premature failures. However, issues caused by improper installation, poor vehicle maintenance, or misuse—such as deep discharges from leaving lights on—are usually excluded. It’s always wise to keep your receipt and check warranty terms. Many reputable sellers, such as Halfords or Euro Car Parts, offer straightforward warranty claim processes.
Do hybrid and electric cars use the same batteries?
No, hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) have fundamentally different battery systems compared to traditional petrol or diesel vehicles. Most hybrids and EVs use large lithium-ion battery packs to power the vehicle, which are much more expensive to replace—often costing several thousand pounds. However, they also have a standard 12V auxiliary battery, similar to conventional cars, which operates systems like lights, locks, and infotainment. Replacing this 12V battery is a similar process and cost to regular vehicles. Always confirm the type of battery before booking a replacement service.
Car Battery Cost too Much ? Want to DIY?
Related Articles
How much does alternator replacement cost in the UK?
If your battery keeps dying, it might not be the battery itself but a faulty alternator that’s failing to recharge it properly.
How much does spark plug replacement cost in the UK?
A weak battery can lead to poor ignition, but if the issue persists, you may also need to inspect your spark plugs for damage or fouling.