A unique battery service programme for vehicles with Start-Stop engines, has been developed by Johnson Controls, to provide Independent workshops with total product support and training for this new and rapidly expanding market.

At the heart of the VARTA Start-Stop Service programme (VSSP), is a wi-fi diagnostic tool smaller than an iPad, which allows technicians to manage all the steps necessary to test start-stop systems and replace the Absorbent glass mat (AGM) or Enhanced Flooded (EFB) batteries, they rely on to achieve fuel and CO2 emission reductions of between 5 and 12%.

Johnson Controls predicts that by 2015, 70% of all new vehicles manufactured will feature Start-Stop technology. According to Joacim Adlerborn, Training and Technical Services Manager at Johnson Controls, the majority of independent workshops still feel ill equipped to service these vehicles.

Stemming directly from a market survey of 1,200 workshops in Europe carried out by Johnson Controls, the company developed the tool that is easy to operate and has access to all the latest data at all times. Replacing a Start-Stop battery is not like replacing a conventional car battery, as it is intricately linked to the on-board electronics via a battery management system (BMS) or intelligent battery sensor (IBS).

The VSSP tool first ascertains the vehicle and battery type, and then provides the technician with precise information on the position of the battery (often hidden away in the boot or under the driver’s seat) and the EOBD (European on-board diagnostics) interface with the aid of a 2D code and VIN number.

The technician is given a step-by-step guide to replacing the battery via on-screen images and graphics using the touch screen. The VSSP can also be used to test the battery, evaluate or delete error codes and read individual vehicle data.  Armed with this information, the technician knows which VARTA replacement battery is suitable for the vehicle.

By regularly connecting the device to Johnson Controls’ secure area for partners via wireless internet, workshops can keep the device up to date, as well as access all relevant data on battery replacement online at any time.

Supporting the diagnostic tool is a full service programme developed for Johnson Controls by eXponentia, to assist workshops in staff training. Johnson Controls also offers technical support through e-learning via the Internet.

The VSSP offers a two-year VARTA mobility guarantee.  Additional marketing support, such as registered partner exterior signage, and a range of promotional material is also available to support the workshop. Available through your local factor via Qualvecom, in the Spring of next year.