Aftermarket February 2023

Above: The BST-360 from Launch Tech UK FEBRUARY 2023 AFTERMARKET 31 replacement should be the same. However, if a higher capacity battery is required, it is possible to replace an EFB with an AGM version, but remember, an AGM cannot be replaced by an EFB and, irrespective of the type, both need to be reprogrammed into the vehicle’s energy management system. Finally, ensure the correct voltage to the vehicle’s electrical system is maintained during battery replacement and support the vehicle’s battery when running diagnostic processes. These procedures are linked, as to prevent causing unnecessary problems and to be carried out effectively, they both require a stable source of power to be constantly supplied to the vehicle’s electrical system.” John added: “Using equipment dedicated to battery support is now a necessity in any workshop. A battery performs best when it’s in peak condition, so by reducing the possibility of battery failure in the workshop, or even worse after the customer gets home, workshops can save more than time and money, they can preserve their reputation.” Significant increase Mark Poole, Regional Sales Manager for CTEK observed: “The demands on batteries have increased due to more sophisticated power hungry in-vehicle technology and systems, such as navigation and sound systems, heated seats, windows, steering wheels, entertainment and Stop/Start technology. As a result of this increasing amount of onboard technology, the battery is being placed under greater strain than ever before. Battery capacities have not increased at the same rate as demand on load, therefore battery maintenance is now, more than ever, an essential requirement in minimising risk of premature battery failure.” He continued: “We cannot ignore the demands that complex vehicle technologies are placing on workshops. Over the past decade we have seen battery issues become more and more common in vehicles entering the workshop. A six-week winter trial undertaken by CTEK in 2019 identified that as many as 50% of vehicles arriving in the workshop have a battery requiring attention, either charging or replacing. Add to that the shift in driving habits as a result of the recent increase in fuel prices, and the younger generation of drivers who have much more of a convenience-led lifestyle when it comes to driving, there is now a significant increase in battery health issues.” While usage has a huge effect on battery health, the seasons play their part too: “Now we are in the winter months we should also consider what happens to the battery when cold weather strikes. Battery performance can reduce by 35% when temperatures hit freezing and fall by as much as 50% if temperatures drop below zero, bringing car battery health in the workshop to the fore. When a vehicle enters the workshop, oil and other fluid levels, tyre pressures and brake condition are all regularly checked and monitored. Workshops should consider offering the same level of service to their customers’ vehicle batteries – easily, safely and without disruption to usual workshop routines.” Mark added: “To make the most of this opportunity, the workshop needs to be equipped with an up-to-date battery tester, ideally incorporating a printer facility. Complemented by a battery charger workshops can test, charge and condition a vehicle’s battery during other vehicle work, which is a chargeable service and an easy way to increase profit margins.” Essential Launch Tech UK National Sales Manager Richard Collyer commented: “As the harsh winter puts increased strain on batteries, technicians become even more reliant on battery chargers to power up vehicles, so ensuring they are using the best equipment available is essential. The new BST-360 Bluetooth Battery Tester from Launch Tech UK offers a novel solution for testing 6V, 12V batteries and related electrical systems. Technicians can use the Launch X431 tool, or any android or iOS device, to view the output and provide customers with a handy report.. For more information, visit: www.launchtech.co.uk/battery-tester-tools/bst360- bluetooth-battery-tester/ Lastly, Banner has launched an updated version of its online battery finder portal, which now includes fitting instructions, battery diagnostics and technical data. Commenting on the new features, Country Manager Lee Quinney said: “While the Banner Battery Finder is widely accepted across our customer base, we are confident that the modifications that have been introduced will serve to further enhance its appeal in terms of both functionality and the information that can be sourced. With batteries being far more vehicle specific than ever, the importance of selecting the right battery for a particular vehicle has never been more consequential.” To view the new version of the Battery Finder, go to: www.bannerbatteryfinder.co.uk Below: The CTEK Pro 120