Salt air, short island trips, and cool, damp winters make Guernsey tough on car batteries. This guide shows you how to pick the right type and size, typical local prices in GBP, the best shops on‑island, and smart maintenance habits. We also link to handy online comparisons for AGM options, value EFB batteries, and garage‑grade tools like a smart charger.

Table of Contents

Quick Picks (By Use Case)

  • Everyday commuter (no stop/start): Quality Flooded/Calcium or EFB. Compare Type 096 and Type 110. ~£90–£180 + fitting.
  • Cars with idle stop/start: EFB (value) or AGM (premium). Browse EFB options or AGM options. ~£140–£320.
  • 4×4, towing & vans: AGM starting battery or dual setup (starter + deep-cycle). See 12V deep-cycle AGM and add a DC–DC charger.
  • Short-trip island driving: AGM/EFB plus a smart maintainer to combat sulphation.
  • Cold-channel ferry trips/winter starts: AGM with higher CCA. Shortlist high‑CCA AGM.
  • Audio/performance builds: AGM with higher RC/Ah and tight voltage stability. Check high‑reserve AGM.

Car Battery Types in Guernsey Comparison

Type Best For Pros Watch‑outs Typical Price (Guernsey) Shop
Flooded/Calcium (Lead‑acid) Older petrol/diesel without stop/start Lowest cost, widely available Lower cycle life; avoid for stop/start ~£90–£160 Compare
EFB Factory stop/start small–mid cars Better cycling than flooded; good value Must match OE spec; coding may be needed ~£140–£220 Compare
AGM Premium stop/start, winter use, short trips High CCA, spill‑proof, deep‑cycle capable Higher cost; charger must support AGM ~£170–£320 Compare
Deep‑cycle AGM / Leisure Campers, winches, fridges (aux battery) Long reserve capacity Not ideal as main starter unless specified ~£130–£280 Compare

Car Battery Size & Fitment Size Guernsey

Common Size Typical Vehicles Polarity Notes Shop
096 / H6 / L3 Many European saloons & SUVs Right‑hand positive Check height under braces 096 search
110 / H7 / L4 Larger diesels, vans Right‑hand positive Often AGM/EFB on stop/start 110 search
019 / H8 / L5 Executive cars, high‑spec diesels Right‑hand positive High CCA for winter 019 search
Asia/JIS (e.g., 55D23L) Toyota, Honda, Nissan L or R variants Confirm terminal layout JIS sizes

Best Car Battery Brands in Guernsey

  • Varta: OE on many European cars; strong CCA and long life in H5/H6/H7 sizes. Typical £160–£300 (AGM).
  • Yuasa: Popular across UK & Channel Islands; solid EFB/AGM catalog. ~£140–£260.
  • Bosch: S4/S5 (flooded) and S5A (AGM) ranges; reliable winter starting. ~£120–£280.
  • Exide: Quality EFB/AGM with good reserve capacity for diesels. ~£130–£270.
  • Odyssey / Optima (AGM): Performance builds, winches, audio. Premium pricing.

Where to Buy Car Battery in Guernsey

  • Local motor factors can test, supply, and often fit while you wait. Many will also order specific EFB/AGM sizes the same day.
  • For maintainers, jump starters, and accessories, online is convenient: browse chargers, jump starters, and 12V testers.
  • Guernsey Auto & Electrical Supply Co. Ltd (Lucas House)
  • Pitronnerie Road Industrial Estate, St Peter Port, GY1 2RH
  • Contact: 01481 726644 • guernseyauto@cwgsy.net
  • Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00–17:00; Sat 8:30–12:30
  • The Bridge Motor Shop
  • Bridge House, The Bridge, St Sampson
  • Contact: 01481 248411 / 01481 244900
  • Hours: Mon–Sat 09:00–17:30; Sun closed
  • Guernsey Motor Spares Ltd
  • Unit B1, St George’s Place, La Piette Complex, St Peter Port, GY1 2BH
  • Contact: 01481 721263 • gmsxl@cwgsy.net
  • Hours: Typical trade hours; call ahead for Saturday times

Buying Car Battery in Guernsey Guide and Tips

  • Match technology to the car: Stop/start = EFB/AGM; no exceptions. Check your handbook or existing label.
  • Size matters: Confirm code (096, 110, 019, etc.), polarity, and hold‑down style before you buy.
  • CCA for winter: Aim for higher CCA if you leave the car outside or make winter ferry trips.
  • Charging profile: Use a charger with AGM/EFB mode. See AGM‑compatible chargers.
  • Short‑trip strategy: Give the battery a conditioning charge monthly or take an occasional longer drive.
  • Coding/reset: Many newer cars need a battery registration reset. Ask the fitter or get an OBD2 tool.
  • Warranty & proof: Keep the receipt and warranty card dry; island humidity ruins paper quickly.
  • Recycling: Return the old unit when you buy; factors will handle it, or take it to Longue Hougue.

Car Battery Guernsey FAQs

How much does it typically cost to replace and install a car battery in Guernsey?
DIY supply is ~£90–£320 depending on type; allow £20–£40 for testing/fitting. AGM/EFB and coding can add extra.

What’s the typical car battery warranty in Guernsey?
Most brands offer 3–5 years (pro‑rated). Trade factors may offer shorter terms for taxis/commercial use.

How are car batteries recycled in Guernsey?
Residents can drop them at the Longue Hougue Household Waste & Recycling Centre; motor factors also accept returns with purchase.

Can I order a battery online to Guernsey?
Many couriers restrict shipping of acid‑filled batteries. It’s often faster to buy locally and order accessories online (chargers, testers, jump starters).

Do I need to code a new battery?
If your car has smart charging/stop‑start, yes—have a garage register the battery or use an OBD tool.

Bottom Line

  • For most island drivers, an EFB (stop/start) or quality AGM (short‑trip/winter) in size 096 / 110 will be the safest bet. Expect £140–£300 supplied, plus fitting/coding if needed.
  • Buy locally from trusted motor factors for correct sizing, quick fitting, and easy recycling—and add a smart maintainer to maximise battery life in Guernsey’s short‑journey conditions.
Best Car Battery in Guernsey: Top Brands & Where to Buy