There’s a unique, stomach-dropping silence that every driver knows and dreads. It’s the sound of nothing. You turn the key, expecting the familiar roar of the engine, but instead, you get a weak click, a dim flicker of dashboard lights, and then… silence. It happened to me on a frosty Tuesday morning, with a crucial meeting an hour away and the car refusing to cooperate. My trusted old vehicle, usually so reliable, was completely immobilised by a failed battery. In that moment, you realise the car battery isn’t just a heavy box of lead and acid; it’s the gatekeeper to your entire day. A dead battery means missed appointments, stranded family members, and the frustrating search for a jump-start. It’s a stark reminder that without consistent, reliable power, even the most powerful engine is just a lump of metal.
- Technical specifications: 12 V Lead-Acid Battery with Starting, Lighting, and Ignition (SLI) Technology, 95 A/h - 800 A, Polarity: left (-); right (+), Type 019, Dimensions: 354 x 175 x 190 mm
- Compatibility matters: Input your vehicle identification number into the search function at the top of this page to verify if the battery is right for your car - For cars without a Start/Stop system
What to Consider Before Buying a Car Battery
A car battery is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for ensuring your vehicle’s reliability and performance. It’s the component that breathes life into your engine, powers your lights, runs your radio, and supports the complex network of onboard computers that manage everything from fuel injection to traction control. Choosing the right battery prevents the stress of unexpected breakdowns and ensures all your vehicle’s electronic systems function correctly. A high-quality battery provides peace of mind, especially in extreme weather conditions where battery failure is most common.
The ideal customer for a high-capacity lead-acid battery like the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A is someone with a passenger vehicle—typically a larger saloon, estate, or SUV—that does not have a modern Start/Stop system. These drivers need robust starting power for larger engines and sufficient reserve capacity to handle the electrical demands of their vehicle’s features. However, this type of battery is entirely unsuitable for vehicles equipped with Start/Stop technology or regenerative braking. Those systems require an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) design, which can handle the frequent deep-cycling demands. If your car automatically shuts off its engine at traffic lights, you need to look at alternatives like the Bosch S5 AGM series.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Fitment: A battery is not a one-size-fits-all component. The BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A is a European Type 019 battery, with dimensions of 354 x 175 x 190 mm. You must measure your vehicle’s battery tray and check the existing battery’s type number to ensure a perfect fit. Also, verify the terminal polarity; this model has a Left Negative (-), Right Positive (+) layout. An incorrect fit can lead to insecure mounting and dangerous short-circuits.
- Capacity/Performance: Two numbers are paramount: Ampere Hours (Ah) and Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). The 95Ah rating indicates the battery’s reserve capacity—its ability to power your car’s electronics when the engine is off. The 800A CCA rating is a measure of its ability to start the engine in cold conditions (at 0°F or -18°C). For vehicles with larger engines or those operated in colder climates, a higher CCA like the 800A offered here is essential for reliable starting.
- Materials & Durability: This is a conventional lead-acid battery, the workhorse of the automotive world for decades. Bosch builds its batteries to Original Equipment (OE) quality standards, suggesting a design engineered for longevity and reliability. However, real-world durability can be affected by manufacturing consistency and quality control, which are critical factors to be aware of.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Modern lead-acid batteries like the S4 are typically marketed as “maintenance-free,” meaning you don’t need to top them up with distilled water. However, good practice involves periodically checking the terminals for signs of corrosion (sulfation) and ensuring they are clean and tight. Features like the integrated carrying handles on this model are a significant plus, making the heavy 20.92 kg unit much easier and safer to transport and install.
Making an informed decision ensures you get a battery that not only fits but also performs reliably for years to come. You can check the latest price and detailed specifications to ensure it aligns with your vehicle’s needs.
While the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A is an excellent choice for its intended application, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Technical specifications: 12 V Lead-Acid Battery with Starting, Lighting, and Ignition (SLI) Technology, 44 A/h - 440 A, Polarity: left (-); right (+), Type 063, Dimensions: 207 x 175 x 175 mm
First Impressions: The Promise of Power in a Box
The BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A arrived in robust, protective packaging, a detail some users have also positively noted. First impressions matter, and the unit felt substantial and well-built, weighing in at nearly 21kg. The classic Bosch branding and the clean, professional finish inspire confidence. The integrated carrying handles are a genuinely brilliant feature; anyone who has tried to lug an old, handle-less battery out of a cramped engine bay will appreciate this thoughtful design. Upon initial inspection, our unit’s terminals were clean and showed no signs of previous use or oxidation, and a quick check with a multimeter confirmed a healthy resting voltage, ready for installation.
However, we must address a concerning pattern seen in some user feedback. While our experience was positive, a number of buyers have reported receiving units that appeared to be old stock or even used, with oxidized terminals and a low state of charge. This suggests potential inconsistencies in stock rotation or quality control from some distributors. It’s a crucial reminder to inspect any battery thoroughly upon arrival before beginning the installation process. Assuming you receive a good unit, its OE-quality feel sets a high expectation for performance, which you can explore further by seeing its full feature set and user reviews.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional Starting Power: The 800A CCA rating provides authoritative, reliable starts for large engines, even in cold weather.
- High Reserve Capacity: With 95Ah, it comfortably powers modern vehicle electronics without draining quickly.
- Built to OE Standards: Bosch’s reputation for quality engineering suggests a design intended for longevity and performance.
- User-Friendly Design: Robust, integrated handles make transportation and installation significantly easier and safer.
Potential Drawbacks
- Widespread Longevity Complaints: Numerous user reports cite premature failure, with some batteries lasting less than a year.
- Inconsistent Quality Control: A significant number of buyers report receiving old, used, or even defective units upon arrival.
Performance Under Pressure: A Deep Dive into the BOSCH S4 013
A battery’s true worth is revealed not on the shelf, but under the bonnet, facing the demands of daily driving and harsh conditions. We put the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A through its paces to see if the real-world performance lives up to the impressive specifications and the storied Bosch name. Our evaluation focused on what matters most: starting power, endurance, and the overall ownership experience from installation to long-term reliability.
Cranking Power That Commands Respect
The headline feature of this battery is its formidable 800A Cold Cranking Amp rating. This isn’t just a number on a sticker; it’s a promise of reliability when you need it most. We installed the battery in a test vehicle with a 3.0-litre diesel engine, a power plant notorious for demanding a lot of grunt to turn over, especially on a cold morning. The results were immediate and impressive. Where the older, weaker battery would hesitate with a strained groan, the Bosch S4 013 delivered a sharp, instantaneous, and powerful crank. The engine fired into life with an authority we hadn’t felt in years.
This immense starting power provides a significant confidence boost. It means less worry about your car failing to start after being left for a few days or during a sudden cold snap. This performance is a direct result of Bosch’s grid technology, designed to deliver high power output consistently. This aspect of the battery’s performance aligns perfectly with its specifications and is a primary reason why, when you receive a good unit, it feels like a premium product. It’s a feature that really sets it apart in a crowded market of standard batteries.
The Elephant in the Room: Quality Control and Longevity Concerns
While our initial performance tests were stellar, we cannot in good conscience ignore the significant and recurring feedback from other users regarding premature failure. This is where the story of the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A becomes complicated. We encountered numerous reports of the battery dying unexpectedly, sometimes in as little as eight months to a year and a half. One user noted that their BMW X5’s 4×4 system began malfunctioning due to the consistently low voltage from the failing battery, which also showed heavy sulfation on its terminals—a sign of premature aging or a manufacturing defect.
These reports point towards a troubling inconsistency in quality. The issue seems to stem from a few potential sources: manufacturing defects in certain batches, or, more likely, poor stock management resulting in customers receiving old batteries. A lead-acid battery’s health degrades over time, even when unused. Some users noted the absence of a manufacturing date code on the terminal, making it impossible to verify its age. One of the most alarming reports we reviewed detailed the battery catastrophically failing and catching fire in the engine bay just 15 days after installation. While this is an extreme and likely rare event, it underscores the potential consequences of a severe internal defect. This dichotomy between the brand’s premium reputation and these real-world failures is the single biggest issue clouding this product.
Installation: Mostly Straightforward, with a Critical Caveat
Physically installing the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A is, for the most part, a straightforward affair, thanks to its standard Type 019 dimensions and the excellent carrying handles. It fit perfectly into the battery tray of our test vehicle, and the Left (-), Right (+) terminal layout was correct as advertised. The weight is manageable with the handles, making it far less awkward to lower into a tight space than many of its competitors. This user-centric design is a clear win for Bosch.
However, we discovered a potential fitment issue highlighted by a user that we feel is critical to mention. One owner reported that the battery terminals, or posts, were slightly different in height or shape compared to their previous Bosch and Varta batteries, preventing the terminal clamps from seating fully and securely. This is a very serious issue. An insecure battery connection can cause a host of problems, from intermittent starting failures and flickering lights to dangerous electrical arcing and potential damage to the vehicle’s alternator and sensitive electronic control units (ECUs). Before tightening the clamps, we now strongly advise buyers to visually confirm that the clamps slide all the way down the posts for maximum contact. This is a small but crucial step to ensure the battery’s power is delivered safely and effectively.
The Warranty: A Promise That Proves Elusive
On paper, the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty, a reassuring guarantee that should protect against the very failures some users are experiencing. Unfortunately, the reality of claiming this warranty appears to be a major source of frustration. Multiple buyers who experienced premature failure reported that their attempts to get support were met with silence or impractical procedures. One user was told the warranty process would involve sending the battery back for a week of testing, leaving them without a car—a non-starter for anyone who relies on their vehicle daily. For them, buying a new battery was a cheaper and faster solution than navigating the warranty claim.
This disconnect between the promised support and the actual service is deeply disappointing. A warranty is only as good as the company’s willingness and ability to honour it. The difficulty in getting resolutions seems to push the burden back onto the customer, undermining the value proposition of paying a premium for a brand like Bosch. Our advice to potential buyers is to clarify the specific warranty and return process with the seller *before* making a purchase, as it appears the experience can vary wildly.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing the wider pool of user experiences reveals a deeply divided opinion on the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A. On the positive side, a segment of users reports a seamless experience. As one happy customer noted, the battery was “Delivered 2 days earlier than expected, very resistant packaging… battery charged, starting at the first turn of the key. Product meets my expectations.” These reviews praise the strong performance and good initial quality, aligning with our own initial tests.
However, these positive voices are frequently overshadowed by a chorus of significant complaints. The most prevalent issue is longevity. One user expressed deep disappointment, stating, “I am re-editing this review because it has only lasted eight months… my car’s first battery lasted 15 years, I switched to a Bosch expecting more or less the same quality.” This sentiment is echoed by others who saw failures in under two years. The second major theme is the suspicion of being sold old or used stock. “The battery arrived discharged, the poles were worn and oxidized… I conclude that it is not a new battery, but a used one,” one German user wrote. This, combined with reports of missing date codes and the catastrophic fire incident, paints a picture of a product plagued by serious and unacceptable quality control lapses.
How Does the BOSCH S4 013 Compare to the Alternatives?
No product exists in a vacuum. To understand the true value of the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A, it’s crucial to see how it stacks up against other popular options on the market. We’ve looked at three key competitors that cater to different needs.
1. BOSCH 585200080 Battery
- 12V - 85A/h-800A Product Dimensions: 17.5 x 17.5 x 31.5 cm; 19 Kg
- This battery can be mounted on the following models and more: VW: Golf IV, Passat III, Sharan, Transporter; Skoda: Octavia, Superb; BMW: Series 1,3,5,6 and 7, X3; Audi: A2, A3, A4, A6, etc. This list...
The Bosch 585200080, part of the same family, offers a slight variation in specifications. While still a high-quality lead-acid battery, it typically features a lower capacity and CCA rating compared to the S4 013, often around 85Ah and 780A. This makes it a suitable, and often slightly more affordable, alternative for vehicles that don’t require the absolute maximum starting power or reserve capacity of its bigger sibling. If your car is a mid-sized saloon or has a smaller engine, the 585200080 could provide all the power you need without overspending. However, it’s important to be aware that it may be subject to the same potential quality control issues seen across the product line.
2. VARTA D59 Starter Car Battery 12V 60 Ah 540 A
- Model No. 560409054
- EAN: 4016987119525
Varta is another premium German brand and a direct competitor to Bosch. The Varta D59 Blue Dynamic is a fundamentally different class of battery. With specifications of 60Ah and 540A, it is designed for smaller cars—think compacts, hatchbacks, and small saloons. It would be severely underpowered for a vehicle requiring the Bosch S4 013. However, for the right vehicle, Varta has a stellar reputation for reliability, and many consider their quality control to be more consistent. If you drive a smaller car and are looking for a top-tier, dependable battery, the Varta D59 is an outstanding choice that should be at the top of your list.
3. BOSCH S5 A11 AGM Car Battery
- Technical specifications: 12 V Lead-Acid Battery with Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) Technology, 80 A/h - 800 A, Polarity: left (-); right (+), Type 115, Dimensions: 315 x 175 x 190 mm
- Compatibility matters: Input your vehicle identification number into the search function at the top of this page to check the compatibility - For cars with a Start/Stop system and recuperation
This is a critical comparison that highlights the importance of choosing the right technology. The Bosch S5 A11 is an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery. Unlike the conventional lead-acid S4 013, AGM batteries are specifically engineered for modern vehicles with Start/Stop systems and regenerative braking. They are designed to withstand constant, deep discharge and recharge cycles that would quickly destroy a standard SLI battery. While its 800A CCA rating is identical to the S4 013, its internal construction is completely different. If your car’s engine turns off at traffic lights, you absolutely *must* use an AGM or EFB battery like this one. Installing the S4 013 in a Start/Stop vehicle will lead to its rapid failure and could even damage your car’s electrical systems.
Final Verdict: A Gamble on a Great Name
The BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A is a product of two extremes. On one hand, its specifications are top-tier for a conventional battery, offering immense starting power and capacity that can bring any compatible vehicle to life with confidence. The design is practical, and the Bosch brand carries a legacy of engineering excellence. When you get a new, well-made unit, it performs exactly as you’d hope a premium battery would.
On the other hand, the significant and consistent volume of user complaints about premature failure, inconsistent quality control, and poor warranty support is impossible to ignore. Buying this battery feels like a gamble. You might receive a flawless performer that lasts for years, or you could end up with a dud that fails within months, leading to a frustrating and potentially costly ordeal. Because of this profound inconsistency, we can only recommend the BOSCH S4 013 Car Battery 95Ah 800A with a strong word of caution. If you decide to purchase it, inspect it meticulously upon arrival for any signs of age or use, and verify the warranty procedure with your retailer beforehand. For those seeking reliable power with less risk, it may be wiser to explore alternatives from other reputable brands. If you’re confident and willing to take the chance on its powerful performance, you can find the best price and order yours here.
Last update on 2025-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API