Where’s My Car Battery Located?

The battery is one of the most important parts of your car, but it can sometimes cause a bit of hassle. It might unexpectedly go flat, fail completely, or develop corrosion on the terminals. Checking and replacing a car battery is a routine job at garages. In this guide, we’ll explain where to find the battery in your car so you can carry out a quick check yourself.

Where’s the Battery in a Car?

In most cars, the battery is in the engine bay at the front, either to the left or right of the engine. However, some models have it in the boot to help with weight distribution.

In mid- or rear-engine cars like the Lotus Evora or Audi R8, you’ll usually find the battery in the front luggage compartment.

It looks like a small black box with two cables attached to the top. These are the battery terminals, which power the car’s electrical system. One is positive, the other negative, and the battery supplies direct current (DC) to keep everything running.

Is the Battery Under the Bonnet?

According to Varta, around 60% of cars have their battery under the bonnet at the front. However, in some models—such as hybrid Toyota cars—it’s in the boot to improve weight balance and temperature control.

In modern electric vehicles, the battery is much bigger, so it’s typically fitted under the floor.

To be sure where your car’s battery is, check the owner’s manual—it’ll have the exact location and a diagram.

If your battery is flat, you might need to recharge it before replacing it. In this case, using a car battery charger can be a quick and effective solution. However, if your battery is old or damaged, replacement might be necessary.

How to Find Your Car Battery

The location of a car’s battery depends on its design. Here’s a general guide:

• Front-engine cars (the most common type) – The battery is usually found in the engine bay, either on the left or right side.

• Mid- and rear-engine cars – Models like the Porsche 911 or Toyota MR2 often store the battery in the front luggage compartment to improve weight distribution.
• Electric and hybrid vehicles – Most EVs have a large main battery built into the floor, while the smaller 12V battery is typically located in the boot or under the bonnet. For instance, the Tesla Model S has its 12V battery tucked away under a plastic cover in the front storage area.
• SUVs and large crossovers – Some SUVs have the battery hidden under the front passenger seat or within a dedicated compartment in the boot.
• Diesel and commercial vehicles – Larger diesel cars and heavy-duty vehicles may have the battery housed in a side compartment, and some even use two batteries for additional power.

If you're unsure where your battery is located, the best approach is to check your owner’s manual or look up a diagram specific to your car model.

Conclusion

Knowing where your car’s battery is located can save you time and hassle when carrying out routine checks or troubleshooting issues. Whether it’s under the bonnet, in the boot, or tucked away beneath a seat, being aware of its position helps with proper maintenance and can prevent unexpected breakdowns.

If you drive a modern vehicle, it’s also worth checking whether your car uses an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery, as these require different care compared to traditional lead-acid batteries.

Additionally, always refer to your vehicle’s manual for precise battery location and handling instructions. Regular inspections and proper care can extend battery life and improve performance. Being aware of warning signs like slow engine cranking or dim lights can help prevent unexpected failures and costly repairs.