Vehicle Batteries
A very important component on a modern vehicle!
It must supply all the electronic modules, sensors, control units, safety systems, comfort control modules, start/stop systems, key proximity and many more devices that are found on a vehicle, and most need to be powered up before you even start the engine. This is also why the correct battery fitment such as AGM or EFB, if recommended is an absolute must. Just as important, is to carry out the correct battery coding and module resets on vehicles with a 'Smart Charge' battery charging system.
How do I know if my car battery needs replacing?
There are a number of warning signs to look out for:Dashboard warning lights
If you get the battery warning light showing on your dash this indicates that there is an issue. You must get your battery and charging system tested ASAP. When the battery provides low voltage around the vehicle it will get incorrect readings from different modules and sensors which can even bring the Engine Management (MIL) light on.Trouble starting your vehicle
Like any battery, when it gets older, the internal components will start to erode, making it less powerful. This is noticeable when trying to start your engine, it can be slow to start or even fail to start completely. Electrical issues: Faults with any electrical system, such as the stop/start function, central locking, electric windows, folding mirrors etc can all point towards a battery issue. As a battery fails, it will lose its ability to power the vehicles electrical systems which can cause intermittent faults or even systems to shut down completely.How to get your battery tested?
Simple, just pop in and see us, one of our technicians will carry out a FREE battery test while you wait. It only takes a few minutes for a quick health check of your battery which can diagnose any underlying battery faults. The test involves checking the voltage, start capacity (CCA) and general condition of the battery and charging system.
Is there anything you can do if you can't get your vehicle started?
With the growing amount of electrical technology and creature comforts on vehicles, this will of course put extra demands on your battery. If you have issues starting your vehicle, to give your battery its best chance, first try turning off any unnecessary features, such as your heated windscreens and wipers, auxiliary chargers, satellite navigation systems, dash cams, heated seats, heated wing mirrors etc, as they all take a little bit of power away from the starting procedure.
How and why do we test batteries?
Voltage = V
The voltage reading for a 12-volt battery which is in general use should be above 12.5 volts. If a reading shows lower than this, you'll need to recharge or replace your battery.
Start Capacity - CCA
We also measure the power your battery is giving out, so the starting ability of your battery from cold. It must maintain at 7 volts at least at a low temperature, and this reading will be displayed as a % of the battery's start capacity. If the start capacity is below 75%, this indicates that the battery is starting to deteriorate and you could experience problems in the near future.
What if my battery needs replacement?
No problem at all. Your battery replacement will be carried out in house by our trained technicians. If battery coding or module resets are required, this will also be carried out with the correct diagnostic equipment.