What type of battery is in a Honda Accord?
In short, a Honda Accord uses two different battery systems depending on the variant: a standard 12-volt lead-acid battery for starting and electronics in gasoline models, and a separate high-voltage battery pack in hybrids, whose chemistry has ranged from NiMH to Li-ion across generations.
The standard Accord: 12-volt battery
The regular, non-hybrid Accord relies on a conventional 12-volt battery to start the engine and power accessories when the engine is off or idle. Here are the core details:
Key characteristics
- Type: Lead-acid battery, with newer models typically using a maintenance-free sealed AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) design; some older cars used flooded lead-acid
- Purpose: Provides cranking power for the starter motor and powers electrical systems (lights, radio, ECU) when the engine isn’t running
- Voltage and placement: 12-volt system; usually located in the engine bay (often near the front left or right corner) depending on year and trim
- Replacement/maintenance: Typically lasts about 3–5 years under normal use; replacement is a routine service item; keep terminals clean to avoid parasitic drain
In summary, the standard Accord’s 12-volt battery is a conventional lead-acid unit designed to handle starting and daily electronics, separate from the hybrid battery pack.
The Accord Hybrid: a high-voltage battery pack
Hybrid variants of the Accord rely on a high-voltage energy-storage system that works with the gasoline engine and electric motors. The chemistry and packaging have evolved over generations: NiMH in earlier hybrids and Li-ion in some newer designs, with the pack being sealed and not intended for user servicing.
Battery chemistry and specs
- Chemistry: Older Accord Hybrids commonly used Nickel-MMH (NiMH); newer iterations and markets may utilize Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) cells to improve energy density and efficiency
- Voltage range: The high-voltage pack operates well above the 12V system, typically in the hundreds of volts range depending on generation (exact figures vary by year and trim)
- Capacity and role: Stores several kilowatt-hours of energy to assist the gasoline engine and drive the electric motor(s) during operation and regeneration
- Maintenance and safety: Sealed, high-voltage system; servicing requires trained technicians; do not attempt to open or service the pack yourself; covered under hybrid-specific warranty
In short, the Accord Hybrid’s high-voltage battery is a separate energy-storage pack from the 12‑volt starter battery, with NiMH or Li‑ion chemistry depending on year and market, designed for propulsion support and energy recovery.
Care, maintenance and warranty considerations
Practical guidance for owners: the 12-volt battery should be inspected regularly, especially after long periods of inactivity or extreme weather. The high-voltage hybrid pack is designed for long life, with Honda offering substantial warranty coverage in many regions.
- Warranty: In the United States, Honda typically provides an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty for the hybrid battery; terms vary by country and state
- Diagnostics: Jump-starting a hybrid or handling the 12V battery in a hybrid requires proper procedures to avoid triggering high-voltage safety systems
Always consult the owner's manual or a Honda-certified technician for model-specific specifications and warranty details.
Bottom line and quick takeaway
The Honda Accord uses a standard 12-volt lead-acid battery for routine starting and electronics, plus a separate high-voltage battery in hybrid variants, whose chemistry may be NiMH or Li-ion depending on the year and market.
Summary: The battery setup in the Honda Accord depends on the model. Non-hybrid Accords rely on a conventional 12V battery for starting and power, while Accord Hybrids rely on a high-voltage energy-storage pack whose chemistry has shifted from NiMH to Li-ion in newer generations. Always verify specifics for your exact year and trim with the owner's manual or a Honda service technician.
How much does a new battery cost for a Honda Accord?
Honda Accord Battery Replacement Costs: Around $75 to $200. Honda Accord Hybrid Battery Replacement Costs: Around $2,000 to $8,000.
How do I tell what type of battery is in my car?
You can identify a car battery type by checking the label on the battery for its group size and type (like AGM), consulting the vehicle's owner's manual for specifications, or using online fitment tools by entering your car's year, make, and model. The most reliable method is to find the battery's label, which usually contains both the physical dimensions and chemistry information.
This video explains how to interpret car battery labels: 52sGS Yuasa UKYouTube · Feb 8, 2023
Methods to identify battery type
You can watch this video to learn how to identify different car battery types and find information on the labels: 1mJeremy FieldingYouTube · Jun 11, 2018
- Check the battery label:
- Look for a BCI (Battery Council International) group number, such as 65 or 24F, which corresponds to the physical dimensions and terminal placement.
- Look for the battery's chemistry type, which will be printed on the label. Common types include standard lead-acid, or more advanced ones like AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or Lithium-ion.
- Consult your owner's manual:
- The owner's manual is the most authoritative source for your vehicle's original battery specifications.
- It will list the correct BCI group size and can also specify the minimum Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) required.
- Use online lookup tools:
- Websites for parts stores or battery manufacturers have online tools where you can enter your vehicle's year, make, and model to find the correct fitment and specifications.
- Examine the battery terminals:
- While less reliable, markings near the battery terminals can sometimes provide additional information or help you confirm the correct polarity.
- Ask a professional:
- If you are unable to find the information, a mechanic or a parts store professional can help you identify the correct battery type for your car.
What kind of battery does a Honda Accord need?
The Honda Accord uses different battery types depending on the year, engine, and model, but common options are BCI Group H5 or H6 for newer models with Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) or Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology, or Group 35 for older models. It is crucial to check the owner's manual or vehicle specifications to confirm the correct size (like H5 or H6) and type (AGM or EFB) for your specific Accord to ensure compatibility.
Common battery types
- Group Size: The BCI group size is a key identifier for fit and terminal placement. Common sizes include:
- H5: Often used in newer 4-cylinder models.
- H6: Frequently used in newer models, sometimes for both 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines.
- 35: A common size for older 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder models.
- 51/51R: Another common size for some 4-cylinder models.
- Technology: Modern Accords, especially those with start-stop technology, require an AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) or EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) battery, which can handle the higher demands compared to a standard flooded battery.
How to determine the right battery
- Check your current battery: Look for a label on your existing battery for the group size (e.g., H5, H6, 35).
- Consult your owner's manual: This is the most reliable source for the exact specifications recommended by the manufacturer.
- Use an online compatibility tool: Many auto parts store websites have a "find by vehicle" tool that will show you all compatible options for your specific year, make, and model.
Is the Honda battery AGM or standard?
Types of Batteries for Honda Vehicles
Honda vehicles typically require either lead-acid or AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) batteries.
