If your car doesn't start or it starts but the starter is working very slowly, this indicates that there is a problem with your battery.
Why is the battery important?
The battery is the heart of the vehicle, storing and distributing power to the engine and electrical features such as headlights, radio and central locking.
Signs your battery needs attention:
- Your car won't start
- Reduced or loss of electrical power (headlights, central locking, heating etc)
- Warning light on your dashboard
Contact your First Stop centre as soon as you experience problems.
Battery Care
To keep your battery healthy, try to avoid too many short journeys. Longer trips give the battery ample time to charge.
For older vehicles, always remember to turn off any electricals before you exit your vehicle.
Be mindful of your battery in extreme temperatures. Problems are common during hot spells, and in winter when vehicles naturally require more power to operate lights, windscreen heating, fog lights, etc. Most battery problems occur during the winter season.
Battery FAQ's
How do I know when something is wrong with the battery?
If your car doesn't start or it starts but the starter is working very slowly, this indicates that there is a problem with your battery. You should also pay attention to the sign on the dashboard that stands for battery. If there is a problem with the battery, the sign will be red.
How often should I change the battery?
The battery loses performance over time. Its lifetime depends on a number of factors and can be reduced by, for example, a lot of short trips. On average battery lasts between four and six years. Our experts can asses whether you're ready for a replacement.
Help, my battery's flat, what should I do?
You need two things: the help of another car and jumper cables. Remember to connect positive to positive and to keep the engine running on the car with the good battery. However, remember this is just a short-term solution. We advise you to visit the First Stop specialists as soon as your car has started again. We will assist you with professional help and advice.
I have a car with Start-Stop technology, do I need a special battery?
Yes, vehicles with this type of technology have special batteries with a high cycling capacity.
How is the Car battery recharged?
As long as the car's alternator is working properly, the car must be driven for several kilometres on the road, until it reaches the minimum level of charge (about two hours).
The other option is to go to your nearest First Stop centre for a battery service, and they will recharge it if there is no damage, or replace it with a new one.