Honda CR-V Battery Size & Replacement Cost (All Generations)
If you’re replacing your CR-V’s 12-volt battery, here’s the short answer: most 2023–2026 CR-V gas trims use a Group 47 (H5) battery, while Hybrid trims use a Group 51 battery.
Expect to pay $100–$140 for a standard flooded battery or $200 –$350 for an AGM unit, installed.
Keep reading to find out the dimensions and prices for other CR-V model years. I’ll also share some important information you’ll want to know about replacing the battery in your CR-V.
Honda CR-V Battery Group Size by Generation
Not all batteries are the same size, and even when they are the same size, the polarity (terminal positions) may differ.
Buying the wrong model will mean the battery won’t fit.
Well, you could force it to fit, but you’d have to make a lot of modifications, and sometimes that could even lead to a potential short circuit that might cause sparks.
Make sure you buy the battery model that’s compatible with the CR-V you drive. You can find information on CR-V battery models by year in the table below.
| Model Years | Gas Trims | Hybrid Trims |
|---|---|---|
| 2023–2026 | Group 47 / H5 | Group 51 |
| 2017–2022 | Group 51R | Group 51R |
| 2002–2016 | Group 51R | — |
The most common mistake buyers make: assuming every CR-V still takes a 51R.
That was true for two decades, but the current generation moved to the larger H5/Group 47 case on gas trims, and the Hybrid uses Group 51 — same physical dimensions as 51R, but with reversed terminal polarity.
Buying the wrong one won’t just fail to fit — reversed terminals can mean re-routing cables or, in the worst case, a wiring short.
I had a stupid experience—though it wasn’t specific to the Honda CR-V—but at least it can serve as a lesson for all of us.
About a year ago, I found that my Ford Ranger wouldn’t start. I tried connecting a portable jump starter, and it started right up.
Then I went to a battery store and bought one, but it turned out I bought the wrong model—I should have bought the one with an “R,” but I bought the regular one instead. So it wouldn’t fit.
Luckily, the battery store was willing to replace it with a model that would fit, but as a result, the battery’s 12-month warranty was voided. It was entirely my fault.
Honda doesn’t publish an exact battery group size or CCA rating in the owner’s manual or its official spec sheets — it’s not a spec Honda markets, and the manual only covers how to check and replace the battery safely.
Some of the details on this page come from parts-fitment databases and owner forums, while others (including the Hybrid’s Group 51 designation) were confirmed by physically inspecting the battery in a CR-V.
Because part suppliers can vary by production run, I’d still recommend checking the label on your old battery before ordering a replacement.
2023–2026 CR-V (Current Generation) Battery Specs
Gas trims (LX, EX, EX-L): Group 47/H5. Trims equipped with Auto Idle Stop (Honda’s stop-start system) are better served by an EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) or AGM unit.
A standard flooded battery still works, but degrades faster under the frequent engine cycling that stop-start causes.
Hybrid trims (Sport Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, Sport Touring Hybrid): Group 51 for the 12-volt auxiliary battery.
This is not the same as the hybrid traction battery — the 12V battery only handles starting the gas engine’s electronics, accessories, and computer memory.
The hybrid system’s main battery pack is a separate, much larger component with its own warranty coverage; see our Hybrid Battery Guide if that’s what you actually came here for.
Honda CR-V Battery Replacement Cost
| Battery Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Flooded (Group 51R, older gens) | $90 – $140 |
| AGM (51R or H5/47) | $200 – $350 installed |
Dealership installation typically runs on the higher end of these ranges but includes warning light reset.
Yes, after replacing the battery, the dashboard will be filled with warning lights. The infotainment screen will be completely non-functional and will need to be reset.
Usually, the dealer will perform the reset, and you’ll get your car back in normal working order with no warning lights on.
Parts stores (AutoZone, Walmart, O’Reilly) charge less for installation, but they often won’t reset the check engine light—you’ll have to do it yourself. How? We’ll cover that in the next section.
Another way to save a few dollars is to replace the battery yourself.
It’s not as scary as you might think. Tools? All you need is a 10 mm wrench. You don’t need anything fancy, even a small, humble one like mine can get the job done!
Next, let’s discuss how to replace a car battery yourself at home.
How to Check & Replace the Battery Yourself
If you’re brave enough to test your technical skills by replacing your CR-V’s battery yourself, here are the steps.
Oh, and first, here’s what you’ll need to prepare:
- 10 mm deep socket—it has to be a deep socket. Or a basic wrench will actually work
- Flashlight (recommended)
- New battery
Step By Step DIY Battery Replacement
Step 1: Remove the Battery Hold-Down Bracket
- Open the hood.
- Locate the battery hold-down bracket.
- Loosen the two 10 mm bolts that secure the bracket. If you’re using a ratchet or an impact wrench, you’ll need a deep socket. I prefer to just use a wrench—loosen the bolt, then turn it until it comes off by hand.
- Remove the bracket and set it aside.
Step 2: Disconnect the Battery Terminals
- Loosen the negative (-) terminal first and remove it.
- Loosen the positive (+) terminal and remove it.
- Move both cables away from the battery.
Step 3: Remove the Old Battery
- Remove the plastic battery cover (if equipped).
- Lift the battery out using both hands, as it is heavy.
Step 4: Install the New Battery
- Carefully place the new battery into the battery tray.
- Make sure it sits flat and is fully seated.
- Reinstall the plastic battery cover.
Step 5: Reconnect the Battery
- Connect the positive (+) terminal first.
- Connect the negative (-) terminal last.
- Tighten both terminal clamps.
Note: A small spark when connecting the negative terminal is normal.
Step 6: Reinstall the Hold-Down Bracket
- Position the battery hold-down bracket.
- Insert both ends into their mounting holes.
Step 7: Check the Installation
Make sure:
- Both battery terminals are tight.
- The battery cannot move.
- The hold-down bracket is securely installed.
Reset the Vehicle Systems
Well, after replacing the battery, the first time you start your car, don’t panic if you see a bunch of warning lights all lit up on your dashboard. That’s totally normal.
To clear them, you’ll need to reset your car. It’s really easy.
- Start your CR-V’s engine
- Once the vehicle reaches approximately 20–30 mph, the dashboard warning lights should turn off automatically.
- Done.
Sometimes the radio won’t turn on or won’t respond. It needs to be reset as well. Here’s how:
- Make sure you already reset the vehicle system by driving your CR-V at 20–30 mph. Press and hold the Power button.
- Wait for the system to complete the reset.
- The radio should return to normal operation.
That’s how to replace the battery yourself—it’s not hard, is it? But if you don’t feel confident doing it, don’t force yourself.
Go to the nearest auto parts store; they’ll usually install the battery for a small fee, or for free with a purchase.
AGM vs. Flooded: Which Does Your CR-V Need?
- Trim has Auto Idle Stop (most EX and above): AGM or EFB is the safer choice. Stop-start systems cycle the battery far more than a normal engine, and standard flooded batteries wear out faster under that load.
- Trim without Auto Idle Stop (base LX and older gens): A quality flooded battery is sufficient and cheaper.
- Cold climates: Prioritize higher CCA regardless of chemistry — 51R batteries range from roughly 370–500 CCA, while H5/47 units typically run higher.
How Long Does a CR-V Battery Last?
Most 12-volt batteries last 3–6 years, but frequent short trips, extreme heat, and heavy accessory use (phone chargers, dash cams left plugged in) shorten that considerably.
If your CR-V has needed more than one jump start in the past year, it’s worth testing the battery rather than waiting for it to strand you.
For symptoms and troubleshooting, see Dead Battery guide.