Which batteries to install in vehicles with Start & Stop

If you have a vehicle with electronic equipment, or even with a simple Start & Stop system, you need to install a dedicated battery. There are two designations to remember: AFB (advanced flooded battery) with greater cycle resistance built with a positive plate, a negative plate, and electrolyte circulating inside; AGM (absorbent glass material) with high starting power built with a positive plate, a negative plate, and a separator impregnated with electrolyte.

These batteries recharge during braking. The batteries comply with a standard, EN50342-1, which indicates a specific feature through a letter printed on the battery, such as H20 consumption (w), self-discharge (C), vibration resistance (V), charge/discharge cycle life (E), or charge/discharge cycle life in Start & Stop (M). When changing the battery, certain precautions are necessary.

These vehicles must not be left at zero; they need to be supplemented with a battery maintainer. Naturally, a diagnostic reader must be connected.

In case of emergency starting, do not connect the vehicle's negative electronic terminal, as it may be damaged; instead, connect it to a ground. Then, normally remove the battery, reinstall it, and at this point, you can disconnect the battery maintainer.

Now, generate the battery code with its designation as indicated. An email will arrive, and you can enter the code to encode the battery.

Our YouTuber provides indicative prices for this type of battery, with the more sophisticated AGM type nearing £300.