Yuasa highlights benefits of battery checks as NCT surge begins

As lockdown measures ease, the demand for routine servicing, repairs and NCTs is already dramatically increasing. Yuasa is encouraging garages to introduce a simple battery check as part of their NCT and service schedules to identify if the vehicle’s battery has been damaged due to reduced usage.

At the height of the coronavirus pandemic, it is estimated that around 70 per cent of cars in the UK alone remained immobile, with its government announcing a temporary pause on the mandatory MOT.

A study, led by the leading battery manufacturer, estimates that roughly one in 10 vehicles that enter a workshop require a replacement battery – a figure that it expects is now much higher due to the extended period of reduced usage the UK experienced through lockdown. It is safe to say that if a similar study was conducted here in Ireland, results would roughly be the same.

Typically, a battery check, which takes less than a minute to complete, can be carried out before any service work is undertaken, or can easily be incorporated into the NCT process while battery security is checked. The customer can then be informed if a replacement is required and a new battery fitted. Saving the customer the distress of a battery failure later on.

Battery related problems, including difficulty starting and even non-start, can cause considerable stress and frustration for customers. Checking the battery on all vehicles seen, especially given the current circumstances, not only serves to improve customer service, but can also provide significant additional revenue through battery recharging or replacement.

James Hylton, managing director GS Yuasa Battery Sales UK Ltd said: “Garages and workshops should be checking the battery on every vehicle that comes through the door.

“It’s well documented that extended periods of inactivity can have a detrimental effect on a car’s battery. As lockdown has been gradually eased, we’ve seen an increase in battery failure and encourage all garages and workshops to incorporate a simple battery check into all vehicles they see.

“It’s been an understandably difficult time for the country and our industry and we’ve worked hard to ensure workshops that have remained open throughout the Coronavirus pandemic have had access to the stock they need and will continue to do so to ensure we’re able to meet the post-lockdown battery demand.”