What is a Start-stop Battery?
A start-stop battery is a type of automotive battery that is designed to power a vehicle’s start-stop system. When compared to regular batteries, start-stop batteries are generally more powerful and require less maintenance.
If you’re an owner of a modern vehicle, it’s important to have foundational knowledge on start-stop batteries. Even just having basic information will help you maintain your vehicle and identify battery problems before they become a major issue.
In this article, we’re going to help you gain a better understanding of start-stop batteries. We’ll discuss how they work and their general benefits. We’ll also go over the two major types of start-stop batteries and how they differ from each other.
How does a start-stop battery work?
Start-stop batteries are a type of lead-acid battery that is designed to power vehicles with start-stop technology. Start-stop systems are used to improve fuel efficiency by turning the engine off when the vehicle is idling, such as at a stop light. When the driver releases the brakes and presses the gas pedal again, the engine restarts automatically.
Start-stop batteries are also able to provide the high current needed to restart the engine. They are specifically designed to withstand the frequent cycling that is required by start-stop systems.
Compared to normal batteries, start-stop batteries are made with thicker plates and higher-quality materials. This makes them less vulnerable to leaks and more resistant to damage from repeated starting and stopping. They also have a higher capacity than regular batteries, which means they can provide power for longer periods of time without needing to be recharged.
In addition, start-stop batteries are usually smaller and lighter than traditional car batteries, and they can last longer in cold weather.
As a result of these features, start-stop batteries have become an essential component of modern vehicles.
AGM vs. EFB
There are two common types of start-stop batteries: the absorbent glass mat (AGM) and the enhanced flooded battery (EFB).
Here are the main differences between the two types.
- AGM
Unlike most lead-acid batteries, AGM batteries do not require regular maintenance. They are much more resistant to leaks and spills, making them ideal for use in high-vibration environments such as off-road vehicles. AGM batteries are also often used in applications where space is limited, such as in UPS systems and electric vehicles. AGMs are also frequently used in high-performance applications such as race cars and jet skis, where their superior performance and reliability are essential.
However, AGM batteries are typically more expensive than traditional lead-acid batteries. In addition, their deep discharge cycles can shorten their lifespan if not properly managed.
Nonetheless, AGM batteries remain a popular choice for middle to luxury class vehicles with start-stop systems.
- EFB
EFB batteries are similar to traditional lead-acid batteries, but feature thicker plates and higher electrolyte levels than AGM batteries. This design makes them more resistant to vibration and cycling, making them ideal for automotive use.
One of the most important benefits of EFB batteries is their ability to withstand deep discharge cycles. This means that they can be discharged more deeply than traditional lead-acid batteries without damaging the battery cells. As a result, EFB batteries can provide a longer service life and higher power output.
EFBs are typically used in smaller, mid-range vehicles-with start-stop systems.
Advantages of a start-stop battery
- Improved cycling life
Cycling life is one of the most important performance parameters for start-stop batteries. A battery’s cycling life is the number of times it can be discharged and recharged before it fails. Start-stop batteries are designed to withstand many more discharge/recharge cycles than traditional lead-acid batteries. This means that they will last longer and need to be replaced less often.
Start-stop batteries also have a high charge capacity, meaning that they can hold a large amount of electrical charge. This makes them ideal in cases where the engine needs to be started and stopped frequently.
- Lower emissions and fuel efficiency
When the car is idling, the start-stop battery powers the electrical systems while the engine is off. When the engine is restarted, the battery then quickly delivers power to help start the engine. As a result, the car consumes less fuel while idling. This can save you a significant amount of money in the long run. Reducing fuel consumption also reduces gas emissions.
Certainly, start-stop batteries are great for those looking to improve their car’s fuel efficiency and reduce the harmful impacts of fuel on the environment.
- Greater vibration resistance
Start-stop batteries are designed to withstand the vibration and shock of starting and stopping a car engine. This is accomplished through the use of thicker plates and special separators that help to reduce the amount of movement within the battery. As a result, start-stop batteries are more resistant to damage and have a longer lifespan than traditional car batteries.
In addition, start-stop batteries are typically maintenance-free, meaning that they do not require regular inspection or other care.
As you can see, start-stop batteries offer many advantages over traditional lead-acid batteries. If you are looking for a car battery replacement, be sure to visit your local car service centre or battery supplier. When it comes to your car battery, it’s important to make sure that everything is done properly and safely.
