Batteries

Battery Check and Replacement

A vehicle battery is a vital component that is needed to ensure the vehicle starts on the first turn of the key.

Modern vehicle batteries are now even more important due to the power intensive and sensitive electronics on board  newer vehicles.

Batteries need to provide electrical power at a constant voltage and during demanding conditions such as cold weather and start/stop operation.

Checking a battery

We check all car and van 12v batteries during routine servicing using a special diagnostic tool. The battery is checked by digitally simulating a high rate discharge test. The battery is also checked for correct fitment and external signs of defects such as swelling and corrosion.

We then check the alternator to make sure it is correctly charging the battery and that the drive belt to the crankshaft is in a serviceable condition.

Replacing the battery

If we find a faulty battery, we will let you know and ask if you want it replaced. We will provide you with a quote based on using the correct battery for your vehicle. It is very important to choose the correct battery and this is something we look after for you if you choose to have it replaced with us.

When selecting a battery, it is important to check the following:

1. Battery Group Size - Batteries come in different shapes and sizes. It is important to choose the correct length, width, and height battery and also that the terminals are in the correct location.
2. Battery Technology - Different vehicles have different electrical requirements. For this reason, different batteries exist. Battery types can include SLI (Starting, Lighting, Ignition) batteries, Deep Cycle batteries, Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries and Extended Flooded Batteries (EFB).
3. Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) - Temperatures can have adverse affects on batteries. In colder weather, the chemical reaction that takes place in batteries can be inhibited and the release of energy slowed or halted. CCA is an industry rating that defines a batterie's ability to start in cold weather.
4. Amp Hours (Ah) - This is a rating of how many hours a battery can deliver 1 amp at 26℃ before it falls below 10.5 volts. That is to say, it is an indicator of how much energy is in a battery.
5. Battery Reserve Capacity (RC) - Reserve Capacity is an indicator of how long a new battery can provide 25 amps at 26℃ before it falls below a certain voltage. This is important because it determines how long the battery can power essential systems on the vehicle should the alternator fail.

On newer vehicles, it is also important to use a diagnostic tool to reset the battery monitoring system built into the Engine Control Unit. This system compensates for battery degradation over time by adjusting the charging configuration from the alternator. If this is not reset when a new battery is fitted, the life of the new battery can be significantly reduced.

Let us help

As you can see, something as simple as a car or van battery is no longer simple. It requires knowledge to diagnose faults and choose the correct replacements. If you need a battery or want one checked, call in or get in touch by phone or email.