Idle Start / Stop Battery systems

8 September 2016

Idle Start / Stop Battery systems

Vehicles fitted with Idle Start/Stop Systems (ISS) systems are often referred to as ‘mild’ or ‘micro’ hybrids.  They have been developed by vehicle manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions to satisfy global targets.

Identifying vehicles fitted with Idle Stop Start systems

It may not be possible to identify whether a vehicle incorporates Idle Stop Start technology by lifting the bonnet, as manufacturers will not always promote this technology on engine components.  Some vehicle manufacturers include a device or icon on the dash board which enables the Idle Stop Start system to be deactivated as required.

Idle Stop Start v Conventional Batteries

In constant Stop/Start environments such as those experienced in city driving, a vehicle fitted with idle start/stop technology may stop and start at least once or twice each kilometre.  In vehicles fitted with Idle Stop Start systems, the battery must be able to handle the rigours associated with constant Stop Start demands, rapid recharging and the power requirements needed to run electrical accessories whilst the engine is switched off.  The battery must also deliver the necessary cranking capacity to start vehicle in a fraction of a second when the brake is released or accelerator depressed.

Conventional batteries are not designed to handle the cycling requirements of Idle Stop Start systems.  In a conventional system the battery operates in a close to full state of charge and starts the vehicle two or three times per day.  The battery capacity used is replaced by the alternator during the journey and as such the battery is not subjected to constant cycling or required to operate in a partial state of charge.

Using a conventional battery in an Idle Stop Start system could potentially damage the vehicles electrical system and lead to premature battery failure.

To avoid fitting an incorrect or conventional battery into an Idle Stop Start vehicle, run through the following check list:

• Does your vehicle automatically turn off when stationary ?
• Can you see an Idle Stop/Start Symbol on the dash board ?
• Do you have a switch that allows you to disable the Idle Stop/Start function as required ?

If you are still unsure, don’y worry contact Roadside Response today and we will send out one of our specalist Battery Response technicians to your home, or office and properly test and assess your battery needs.  As you can see vehicles have become more complex and your battery is the power supply to all your vehicles advanced electrical systems.  Leave it to the experts and get yourself a battery response today.