GS Yuasa, is highlighting the importance of regular battery checks, no matter the season. Given the increased spike in failures typically seen over the colder months, most assume it is cold weather that kills batteries. However, the Japanese battery manufacturer is encouraging workshops to consider the impact of the typically warmer summer months. 

High under bonnet temperatures created by the engine, if the battery is located there, the increase in self-discharge these conditions bring and how this can impact a battery’s service life are all important summer considerations. 

High temperatures accelerate battery degradation, affecting its capacity and lifespan. In fact, a 10°C rise in battery temperature doubles the self-discharge rate. Combined with a heightened average under-bonnet temperature, the rate of negative plate material break-up and electrolyte evaporation increases but doesn't become a problem until winter when vehicles require significantly more starting power as the ambient temperature falls. This is why most consider battery failure synonymous with winter.

If the battery is left in a state of deep discharge for an extended period, this can also lead to internal damage and reduced service life.

GS Yuasa’s ‘Always Check The Battery’ scheme encourages garages to significantly improve customer service, drive customer loyalty and increase their revenue by testing the battery of every vehicle they service or repair. Research shows one in three vehicle batteries requires attention – whether recharge or replacement. By checking every battery, a workshop seeing 50 vehicles a month could see a potential revenue increase of as much as €12,000!

As part of the scheme, garages can obtain a low-cost, complete battery testing kit, including a GS Yuasa GYT050 battery tester, which has been developed to provide an accurate assessment of the voltage and general battery state of health. 

Garages should speak to their participating GS or Yuasa distributor. 

For more information about GS Yuasa’s Always Check The Battery scheme, visit https://www.yuasa.co.uk/always-check-battery-yuasa/.