One of the main themes at the Yuasa Battery stand at Automechanika Birmingham was on its new Check Battery Campaign. This focuses on the need for garages to get into the habit of checking vehicle batteries and highlights the huge business potential and customer satisfaction benefits this can offer.

James Douglas of Yuasa pointed out that in most cases batteries are rarely checked unless a problem has been reported. However, a battery failure, especially after recent service work, not only reflects badly on a garage, but can also be very costly and inconvenient for the motorist. The increased demands on the latest batteries by sophisticated vehicle electrical systems also mean that battery failure is now a far more critical issue.

In recent testing trials organised by Yuasa and conducted by respected independent garages in the UK, including Frank Massey’s ADS Automotive, only 62%of batteries were found to be in good condition. 27% required a recharge and 11% were in such a poor state that they required an immediate replacement. The trail also found frequent instances where incorrect batteries had been fitted or batteries not properly fitted and correctly coded to the vehicle.

James says that checking batteries is basically a win-win situation for garages and that Yuasa offers all the required tools for the job. He comments, "If a garage checks a battery and it is good they are simply looking professional and passing good news on to their customer. If it requires a recharge or replacement they are also looking professional and proactive and could be saving their customer considerable inconvenience, while also boosting their own sales.”

The Yuasa programme includes a simple online tool for checking battery spec at fit.yuasa.co.uk, a simple to use battery tester with integrated printer and attractive mirror hangers that provide an effective "traffic light” form of communication with the customer. As James points out the procedure for testing can be very quick and the new business potential is considerable. The whole package can also have an important role to play in building customer loyalty and satisfaction.

The Yuasa Check Battery campaign will be rolled out in Ireland over the coming months to allow garages to make the most of the autumn and winter battery sales period.