Stop Start Batteries

What is a Stop-Start Battery?

A stop-start car battery is specially designed for vehicles with start-stop technology. This system automatically shuts off the engine when the car is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights or in heavy traffic) and restarts it when the driver releases the brake or engages the clutch, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Key Features of Stop-Start Batteries:

1. Enhanced Durability – stop start batteries are built to handle frequent charge and discharge cycles compared to regular car batteries.
2. Faster Recharge Rates – Designed to recharge quickly to support multiple engine restarts.
3. Deep Cycling Capability – Can withstand deep discharges without losing performance.
4. Stronger Power Output – Delivers higher cranking power to restart the engine instantly.

Types of Stop-Start Batteries:

1. AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Battery
• Best for advanced stop-start systems with regenerative braking.
• It provides higher performance, a longer lifespan, and supports more cycles.
• More expensive but highly durable.
2. EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery)
• A step up from regular lead-acid batteries, designed for simpler stop-start systems.
• It is more affordable than AGM but with fewer charge cycles.

FAQs

1. Can I Use a Normal Battery in a Stop-Start Car?

No, using a regular lead-acid battery in a stop-start vehicle is not recommended. It won't handle the frequent starts and stops, leading to premature failure and possible system malfunctions.
Would you like help choosing a specific battery for your car?

2. What happens if you put a standard battery in a stop-start car?

A standard lead-acid batteries are not designed for a stop-start system's frequent charges and discharge cycles. If installed, it may:

• Fail prematurely due to excessive strain.
• Struggle to restart the engine consistently.
• Cause stop-start functionality to stop working or triggers warning lights on the dashboard.
• Potentially damage the car's electrical system in some cases.

3. Do you need to reprogram a stop-start battery?

Yes, in most modern vehicles, you need to reprogram (or "reset") the Battery Management System (BMS) when replacing a stop-start battery. This ensures the car recognises the new battery and optimises charging and performance. Failing to do this may lead to:

• Reduced battery lifespan.
• Stop-start system malfunctions.
• Incorrect battery charge levels.

4. How can you tell the difference between standard and stop-start batteries?

• Labelling – Stop-start batteries are marked as AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) or EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery).
• Design – AGM batteries are fully sealed, while EFB batteries look similar to standard lead-acid ones but have reinforced internal plates.
• Performance – Stop-start batteries can handle deeper discharges and recharge faster.

5. Is it safe to jump-start a stop-start battery?

Yes, you can jump-start a stop-start battery, but follow these precautions:

• Use the correct jump-starting procedure as per your car's manual.
• Use a compatible power source (another AGM/EFB battery or a jump starter designed for stop-start systems).
• Avoid frequent jump-starts as they can shorten battery life—consider replacing the battery if it's frequently dying.

6. Can you charge a stop-start battery?

Yes, but you need a smart charger that is compatible with AGM or EFB batteries.

• Use the correct charging mode (AGM mode for AGM batteries, standard mode for EFB).
• Avoid using a basic trickle charger as it may not fully charge the battery or could damage it.
• Charge at the recommended voltage (typically 14.4V–14.8V for AGM and 14.2V–14.6V for EFB).