While the focus is often on electric vehicle (EV) technology, Ecobat Battery wants to highlight the continued importance of the traditional 12-volt battery in servicing hybrid and electric vehicles.
Many hybrid vehicles, like the Toyota Auris, Prius and Lexus CT200, use a separate 12-volt battery for systems like lighting, windows, and central locking. These are typically AGM (absorbent glass mat) or EFB (enhanced flooded battery) batteries and reach their end-of-life as vehicles age.
The good news for workshops is that replacing these 12-volt batteries is straightforward and doesn’t require complex diagnostics, Ecobat also offer compatible replacements from Lucas and Numax.
Testing the battery’s health (SOH) is crucial, and modern testers like the EBT 780 are necessary to provide accurate results for AGM and EFB batteries.
Supporting the battery voltage during diagnostic procedures, which can take hours, is vital for accurate fault finding. Modern vehicles draw power from the 12-volt battery even when the engine is off, so maintaining proper voltage is crucial.
Surprisingly, despite the shift to EVs, a failing 12-volt battery remains the most common cause of breakdowns in these vehicles. Even EVs with high-voltage batteries rely on a 12-volt system for essential functions.
The cyclical nature of use in EVs can lead to premature 12-volt battery failure due to frequent discharges. While car manufacturers are working on solutions, this presents an opportunity for workshops.
Since replacing the 12-volt battery is a familiar task for most workshops, you shouldn’t shy away from servicing EVs. Checking the 12-volt battery as the very first check when EV faults appear could save the customer a trip to the dealer and provide a profitable job for your garage.
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