How to replace a battery

Should I replace a battery like for like?

Usually, we’d say yes. However, if the incorrect battery type has previously been installed, we’d recommend replacing it with the manufacturer’s recommended battery.

What affects the rate in which a battery deteriorates?

1. Discharge cycles – how rapidly charge is taken from the battery and for how long.

2. Charge cycles – how rapidly charge is given to the battery and for how long

3. Battery temperature – batteries deteriorate at a faster rate if they’re charged or discharged at extremes of temperature.

What does State of Health (SoH) mean?

State of Health is the calculated level of battery degradation and remaining capacity of the battery. Remember, a battery can have a voltage of 12.6v, but may not be able to deliver the current to start the engine.

What does State of Charge (SoC) mean?

State of Charge is the amount of voltage available in a battery at a specific point in time.

Why is it important to tell the vehicle that a battery has been replaced?

If the system is not updated that you’ve replace the battery, the system’s accumulated knowledge of the old battery’s State of Health (SoC) will be applied to the new battery. You may find that some functionalities, such as start stop, are impaired.