Frequently Asked Questions
General questions
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43,22% (ADAC Pannenstatistik 2022: https://www.adac.de/rund-ums-fahrzeug/unfall-schaden-panne/adac-pannenstatistik/) of all vehicle breakdowns are caused by battery issues - make sure to eliminate those.
Find a trusted VARTA® Partner near you and get your vehicle battery checked!
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A lead-acid battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses lead and lead dioxide plates immersed in sulfuric acid to store and release electrical energy.
Even with the advent of technologies like Li-Ion, lead-acid batteries continue to dominate the market for 12V batteries installed in passenger cars and commercial vehicles.
For more information about lead-acid batteries, visit our Knowledge section.
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BEM stands for "Battery Energy Management". Your vehicle's control unit monitors it's energy demand as well as taking values from coming the "Battery Management Sensor" (BMS) such as charge and energy throughput status of it's battery into account. Today every modern vehicle with a Start-Stop function or a hybrid system holds a BEM.
Vehicles with advanced Energy Management Systems (such as those from BMW, Mercedes, and VAG) require a battery registration procedure using appropriate diagnostic tools after battery replacement.
For more information on how to register a battery without BEM code available find our article "How to code the BEM system for battery replacement".
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Make use of our VARTA® Battery Finder to find the battery product that fits your vehicle.
It's important to understand that different lead-acid technologies are available, and proper functionality and long battery service life can only be guaranteed when the correct technology for your vehicle and usage profile is chosen.
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Although both AGM and EFB technologies are used for Start-Stop applications, there are some differences in the technologies' performance. While EFB is an improved flooded battery, AGM is a battery specifically designed for demanding applications and able to support any types of Start-Stop systems and eve xEV.
Downgrading from an AGM to an EFB is not recommended since the vehicle's Energy Management System is designed for a certain battery performance. Upgrading from EFB to AGM on the other hand, is always possible and advised when your customer faces recurring battery issues.
Find more on AGM, EFB, xEV and more in our Knowledge section.
Costs
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Proper battery storage and purchasing from a trusted source are crucial for ensuring the longevity, performance, and safety of your car battery. The cost of a car battery varies widely depending on the type of battery technology (AGM, EFB, SLI) and your vehicle's requirements. While we, as manufacturers, do not sell batteries directly to consumers, you can use our VARTA® Partner Finder to locate reliable partners for car batteries. Additionally, to find the right battery suitable for your vehicle, use our VARTA® Battery Finder.
Battery Finder
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As a supplier of 12V batteries to all major OE vehicle manufacturers, the battery finder on the OneVARTA website is based on our first-hand market insights.
Batteries marked as "Recommended" are those that the manufacturer has normally fitted to the vehicle initially.Those marked "Upgrade" are a recommendation by VARTA® Automotive based on feedback from the field, where our partner workshops see that a more powerful battery often makes sense for the vehicle. This may be due to specific use cases with high electrical demands. For example, if the vehicle has been retrofitted with additional electrical consumers, or if the vehicle is not driven regularly, but only occasionally. -
Since the turn of the millennium, start-stop technology has been introduced in more and more vehicle segments and models to comply with increasingly stringent emission regulations. Nowadays, there are hardly any new vehicles that are delivered without a start-stop function. In other words, the newer the vehicle, the more likely it is to feature automated engine shutoff.
If the car is equipped with a Battery Management Sensor, it has a Start-Stop system or at least a Smart-Charging System that requires advanced battery technology such as AGM or EFB
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For a car with a start-stop system, the recommended battery types are Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) or an Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) battery.
If an AGM battery is already installed in the vehicle, it must always be replaced with another AGM battery since the vehicle's Energy Management could overstress a Flooded battery which leads to shortend battery lifetime.
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With the diverse range of starter batteries available, each featuring different technologies and power classes, choosing the right one can be challenging.
The VARTA® Partner Portal for our partner workshops and the VARTA® Battery Search tool for customers simplify the selection process.
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VARTA® ProMotive is the technology leader for heavy commercial vehicles offering a wide range of different battery technologies for different applications and requirements. The ProMotive AGM is designed especially for modern trucks and highly equipped vehicles to meet increasing requirements for electrical loads and end-of-frame mounting systems.
The VARTA® Partner Portal for our partner workshops and the VARTA® Battery Search for customers makes it easy to select the right battery. -
Our VARTA® Powersports batteries can help you get the most from your ride of choice.
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The increase of onboard equipment requires more and more energy. To account for this ongoing trend, VARTA® Automotive offers with the Professional line a range of powerful batteries in different technologies.
Our VARTA® Professional batteries with EFB technology are ideal for dual purpose applications of standard motorhomes and caravans with moderate energy demands. For long off-grid stays and higher energy needs, our AGM models are the perfect choice due to their reliable starting power, high cyclic stability and fast recharge time.
The VARTA® Battery Finder on our VARTA® Automotive website makes it easy to find the perfect VARTA® Professional battery for your journey.
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The increase of onboard equipment requires more and more energy. To account for this ongoing trend, VARTA® Automotive offers with the Professional line a range of powerful batteries in different technologies.
Our VARTA® Professional batteries with EFB technology are ideal for dual purpose applications of standard motorhomes and caravans with moderate energy demands. For long off-grid stays and higher energy needs, our AGM models are the perfect choice due to their reliable starting power, high cyclic stability and fast recharge time.
The VARTA® Battery Finder on our VARTA® Automotive website makes it easy to find the perfect VARTA® Professional battery for your journey.
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With the wide range of starter batteries with various technologies and power classes, the choice is often difficult.
For reliable engine cranks a sufficient CCA performance is crucial. For a long service life and best peace of mind, the battery technology (AGM, EFB, SLI) must match with the vehicle's energy demands. For energy demanding applications, especially for hoteling functions in Long-haul trucks or Caravans the capacity in combination with the recommended Depth-of-Discharge is crucial.
The VARTA® Partner Portal for our partner workshops and the VARTA® Battery Search for customers makes it easy to select the right battery.
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The VARTA® Partner Portal provides partner workshops with assistance in this decision, with battery positions, battery selections and installation instructions for almost all vehicles which are in use in Europe.
For end customers, the VARTA® Battery Search is an ideal tool to find the right battery.
Article
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- Wear protective glasses and protective gloves before working on the battery to prevent contact with acid.
- Remove the ground cable first to prevent short circuits.
- Check for corrosion and rust in the battery compartment, clean and repair if necessary.
- Clean battery terminal clamps to prevent contact resistance and premature failure.
- Ensure terminal clamps are securely fitted to prevent interruptions from vibrations.
- Properly seat the battery during installation and tighten clamps to specified torque.
- Double-check cable polarity before connecting: red to positive, black ground cable to negative.
For more information find our article "Battery replacement - step-by-step".
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For short journeys, proper recharging while driving of the battery is often a challenge. Here the consistent low internal resistance of an AGM battery throughout its lifespan offers a clear benefit.
This battery type features acid bound within a glass mat, preventing acid stratification and preserving the integrity of the active material. The consequent sustained charge acceptance is vital for maintaining a positive charge equilibrium and ensuring prolonged battery longevity.
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To prevent a vehicle's battery from breaking down, consider having your battery tested before embarking on your journey.
For details on testing procedures and how VARTA® Automotive assists workshops through the VARTA® Battery Test-Check program, please visit our website:
Breakdown / Emergency
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To jumpstart your vehicle there are several steps to consider.
For more information find our article "Jump start a car - the step by step guide to follow!".
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Statistics from the German Automobile Association ADAC show that now, 42 % of all car breakdowns are caused by a defective or exhausted battery. These can be prevented with regular battery tests.
Preventative and regular battery checks are becoming increasingly important.
VARTA® Automotive supports workshops with a Battery Test Check Program.Find a trusted VARTA® Partner near you and get your battery checked!
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Starting difficulties are either due to a poorly charged battery or a battery at it's end of life.
Modern fuel saving functions, electric comfort systems, seat heaters, modern entertainment systems, and other electrical components strain the battery. Thus, it's crucial to use a powerful battery to meet the increased demands of modern vehicles.
For more information find our article "Why won't the car start - is it because of the battery?".
Seasons
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Have your battery tested, before you begin your journey.
For more information on testing and to find out how VARTA® Automotive supports workshops with the VARTA® Battery Test-Check program, visit our website:
Go to VARTA® Go to VARTA® Battery Test-Check Program Test-Check Program
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Battery tests can detect failures early. Drivers should have their batteries checked at a workshop at least once a year before winter.
This helps ensure mobility and protects against extra costs and unexpected breakdowns.
For more information find our article "The temperature's effect on batteries?" .
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Battery tests can detect failures early. Drivers should have their batteries checked at a workshop at least once a year before summer.
Hot weather accelerates chemical processes in car batteries, leading to increased self-discharge and corrosion. This helps ensure smooth working and protects unexpected breakdowns.
For more information on testing and to find out how VARTA® Automotive supports workshops with the VARTA® Battery Test-Check program, visit our website.
Battery Testing
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Similar to changing the oil, changing the tyres or servicing the air conditioning, the car battery must also be included in the maintenance routine and thoroughly tested.
Every time you take your vehicle to the workshop, you should have the battery checked.
It is important to analyze the state of the battery, before you suddenly have a breakdown at the worst possible moment.
Drivers should have their batteries checked by workshops at least once a year before winter. -
Battery testing helps to indicate upcoming failure. A simple voltage check is not sufficient to check the actual battery state of health (SOH).
Therefore, drivers should have their batteries checked by workshops at least once a year before winter.
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Extending your battery's lifespan involves a few key practices:
- Disconnect cables: Always disconnect the negative terminal first to prevent short circuits, then disconnect the positive terminal.
- Check battery's state: For non-maintenance-free lead-acid batteries, visit a professional. For maintenance-free batteries, clean vent pipes and avoid checking electrolyte levels.
- Start charging: Keep the battery upright if removing from the car. Turn off electrical consumers before connecting the charger. Connect the red cable to positive terminal first, then the black cable to negative terminal.
- Stop charging: Switch off charger when fully charged. Disconnect cables starting with the red cable from positive terminal, then the black cable from negative terminal.
For more information find our article "How to extend the life of your battery".
Technology
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A gel battery has a similar structure to a conventional flooded battery. The positive and negative electrodes are surrounded by an electrolyte.
However, as the name suggests, the electrolyte is not in liquid form but rather is in the form of a gel due to the addition of silica. This provides greater resistance to vibration and the inclination of the vehicle.Therefore, in the trade, gel batteries are often referred to as maintenance free batteries.
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The abbreviation AGM stands for Absorbent Glass Mat.
AGM batteries are leak-proof and can also deal with inclined positions without problems. This, and their resistance to vibrations are the reasons why AGM batteries are especially favored for off-road and motorcycle use.
In comparison with conventional starter batteries, AGM batteries have a significantly longer cycle life.
Long life, excellent performance and greater safety make AGM batteries the premium batteries for modern vehicles.
Find more on AGM, EFB, xEV and more in our Knowledge section.
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EFB batteries (EFB stands for “Enhanced Flooded Battery”) are suitable for the power supply of cars with entry-level Start-Stop systems.
The design of EFB batteries is a further development of conventional flooded lead acid batteries.
Find more on AGM, EFB, xEV and more in our Knowledge section.
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"xEV" is a term used to collectively refer to different types of electric vehicles, including Full hybrid electric vehicles (FHEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs), and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).
Find more on AGM, EFB, xEV and more in our Knowledge section.
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No, a Start Stop system isn't bad for your car.
It reduces idling time, saving fuel and cutting emissions.Manufacturers use specialized batteries like VARTA® AGM and EFB to support the system, ensuring continuous power for various car functions while the engine is off. The battery is crucial, acting as the heart of the vehicle during the start-stop process.
For more on Start-Stop Technology visit our Technology section.
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Many vehicles now feature a dual-battery system, with a regular 12-volt starter battery and an auxiliary battery. This setup is increasingly common, especially in premium cars with start-stop technology, as it meets higher power demands.
The VARTA® Silver Dynamic Auxiliary battery is specifically designed to support backup applications. Different car models use auxiliary batteries for various purposes, such as extending the duration of the start-stop function or powering comfort features during engine start.
For more information find our article "VARTA® Silver Dynamic Auxiliary battery range is now available".
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A vehicle battery works by converting chemical energy into electrical energy, which is essential for starting the engine and powering electrical components.
For more information find our article "Car battery function"
Products
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The longevity of a car battery is influenced by its condition, usage, and upkeep. Consistent checks and care are essential for extending battery life. These figures serve as approximate guidelines, with the actual duration varying based on personal usage habits.
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The durability of a truck battery is determined by its state, usage, and maintenance. Frequent inspections and upkeep are crucial for prolonging battery life. These estimates are for guidance, as the real lifespan can vary depending on how the battery is used.
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The service life of an RV battery is affected by its condition, usage patterns, and maintenance practices. Regular evaluations and care are key to maximizing its longevity. These numbers are general estimates, as actual battery life can differ based on individual usage.
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The operational life of a van battery relies on its health, usage, and maintenance routine. Ongoing testing and care are important to enhance battery lifespan. These values are indicative, as the true life expectancy can change with personal usage.
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The effective lifespan of a motorbike battery is decided by its condition, usage, and maintenance. Regular assessments and maintenance are vital to extend its life. These numbers are approximate, as the real lifespan can be influenced by individual usage patterns.
Why VARTA®
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VARTA® Automotive batteries are co-developed with leading car manufacturers to ensure they meet all Original Equipment (OE) requirements, resulting in 7 out of 10 new start-stop vehicles in Europe being equipped with a VARTA® Automotive battery. The brand boasts a rich history of over 130 years, with roots in German engineering. This heritage, combined with their strategically located European production site, allows for highly efficient transportation routes, particularly from their AGM production plant in Hanover, centrally located in Germany. This proximity reduces transportation needs, emissions, and fuel consumption, aligning with their commitment to sustainability. Beyond manufacturing, VARTA® Automotive supports its customers through the VARTA® Partner Portal, which provides comprehensive training and resources on battery maintenance and technology. Since the inception of the VARTA® Training Academy in 2018, over 30,000 customers have been trained, equipping them with the knowledge to service modern batteries effectively. VARTA® Automotive continues to empower customers and workshops, preparing them for future challenges and opening new market opportunities.
Partner Finder
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For more information on testing and to find your nearest VARTA® Partner workshop for the VARTA® Battery Test-Check program,
Go to VARTA® Battery Test-Check Program
Professional
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Here is a step-by-step guide to charging your car battery:
- Disconnect cables: Remove negative, then positive.
- Check battery: For lead-acid, seek professional help. Maintenance-free? Just clean vents.
- Start charging: Keep upright if removing. Turn off electricals, then connect charger to battery before plugging in. Red to positive, black to negative.
- End charging: Disconnect charger, then cables. Reconnect positive, then negative when reinstalling.
- Special for start-stop vehicles: Use suitable charger, follow manual.
For more information find our article "Charging car batteries".
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Extended periods of inadequate storage conditions can lead to deep discharge, causing irreversible damage to the battery.
Hence, it's crucial to ensure the battery is stored in suitable locations and at appropriate temperatures.
For more information find our article "How to store vehicle batteries".
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Follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions for installing the new battery.
Additionally, refer to the battery manufacturer's booklet for safe handling guidelines.
Note the position of the positive and negative terminals before removing the old battery to avoid reverse polarity. Ensure the engine is off and the key is removed before starting the process.
Please note that for modern vehicles with ST/ST a battery registration might be needed.
For 12V-battery replacement in xEV special training is mandatory.
For more information find our article "Battery replacement" -
Follow the vehicle manufacturer's instructions for installing the new battery.
Additionally, refer to the battery manufacturer's booklet for safe handling guidelines.
Note the position of the positive and negative terminals before removing the old battery to avoid reverse polarity. Ensure the engine is off and the key is removed before starting the process.
Please note that for modern vehicles with ST/ST a battery registration might be needed.
For 12V-battery replacement in xEV speical training is mandatory.
For more information find our article "Battery replacement" -
Refer to the battery tester’s instruction manual when testing. Consider these key steps:
- Connect it to the battery terminals, red to positive and black to negative.
- For batteries in the trunk or passenger compartment, use those terminals, not the starting aid contacts in the engine compartment.
- Set the tester to the correct battery type: Starter, gel, EFB, or AGM.
- Enter the stated cold start current for the battery.
- The device will automatically carry out the test and provide the result.
For more information find our article "Testing the battery - Step-by-step"
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The so-called cycle life is a critical factor for the lifespan of a battery. A cycle refers to the discharge and subsequent complete recharge of the battery.
The cycle life is highly dependent on the battery technology. An AGM battery has a significantly higher cycle life than EFB or SLI batteries.
The depth of discharge is also crucial for the battery's lifespan and is likewise dependent on the technology. Here too, AGM technology is significantly superior to wet batteries like EFB and SLI.
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With the wide range of starter batteries, various technologies and power classes, the choice is often difficult.The VARTA® Partner Portal for our partner workshops and the VARTA® Battery Search for customers makes it easy to select the right battery.
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Today's car batteries play a more significant role beyond starting the vehicle.
They power all electronic devices, control units and the entertainment system and digital dashboard during engine-off-times.
They're also often located in less accessible areas like the boot or under a seat, requiring expertise for replacement.
Vehicles with advanced Energy Management Systems (such as those from BMW, Mercedes, and VAG) require a battery registration procedure using appropriate diagnostic tools after battery replacement.It's crucial to have a specialist handle battery replacements to ensure safety and problem-free operation.
For more information find our article "Battery replacement"
Battery Maintenance
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To extend your vehicle's battery life, consider these tips:
- Charge Care: Regularly monitor and charge the battery, especially during long-term parking or winter storage. Charge every two months if used sporadically.
- Check Charge: Regularly check battery charge, particularly in cold weather or after short trips. Dimming headlights indicate low charge.
- Prioritize Safety: Conserve battery by minimizing non-essential electrical use and keeping safety systems active during long drives.
- Clean Installation: Keep the battery and terminals clean to prevent discharge and enhance charging efficiency.
For more information find our article "Correct battery care"
Sustainability
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VARTA® Automotive batteries are designed to be environmentally friendly through a combination of resource-efficient production and advanced technology. Their AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) and EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) models are manufactured using 25% less energy and 35% less water than traditional methods, making their production more sustainable. These batteries support Start-Stop technology, reducing vehicle emissions by conserving fuel. VARTA® Automotive batteries also have extended life cycles, which means fewer replacements and less waste. At the end of their life, VARTA® Automotive ensures that used batteries are collected and recycled. Their Krautscheid, Germany facility, with over 115 years of lead recycling experience, processes enough lead annually to match about 4.5 million car batteries. Impressively, 100% of the materials from each recycled battery are recovered and reused, including the lead, with 75% of the lead in new VARTA® Automotive batteries sourced from recycled materials. This comprehensive approach minimizes the need for new raw materials and significantly reduces environmental impact, making VARTA® Automotive batteries a sustainable choice for eco-conscious consumers.
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At Clarios, we recycle approximately 8,000 batteries per hour, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week and 365 days a year within our network. Our life cycle approach not only provides a stable supply of local recycled materials for our new battery production, but it also reduces waste to landfill and lowers our reliance on the supply of virgin materials. Importantly, we reinforce circularity throughout each step of the value chain.
For more information find our article "Recycling: The sustainable alternative"