How to avoid being stranded with a flat battery this winter

A flat battery is THE most common reason for a vehicle failing to start. Once the first real frost strikes this winter thousands of motorists are likely to left stranded. Motorists will be stuck, late for work and waiting for assistance. Lots of motorists will buy a new car battery they simply DO NOT require.

Flat batteries account for almost 20% of all vehicle breakdowns in the UK according to the AA and RAC. Motorists who drive short journeys, leave headlights on and heaters blowing whilst stood in traffic are most likely to be left stranded. Leaving the interior light on or parking up for prolonged periods in very cold weather is enough to drain ANY battery. It’s often just a battery re-charge that’s needed – not a replacement battery.

Calling a garage or breakdown service can be a very costly and time consuming experience. A rogue mechanic can easily condemn the alternator (that’s the part that puts charge back in the battery) or recommend the starter motor or battery be replaced. By the time the ‘so called’ faulty part is replaced the motorist cannot prove otherwise – the motorist can be charged a hefty call out fee and sold an item they do not need.

Mail order specialist, Car Parts Direct provides a Do-It-Yourself product to get a motorist with a flat battery on the move fast. Motorists can avoid expensive call outs and the risk of buying a non-required part. It’s a battery charger that also tests the level of power in a battery instantly and it can boost start a vehicle in around 10 minutes. The unit will totally recharge a completely flat battery up-to 10 times faster than some ordinary chargers – and the device helps to indicate if the battery needs replacing.

The Sparkrite Booster Starter and Charger works with all 12-volt vehicle batteries, both sealed and unsealed. The unit automatically switches off to avoid overcharging and can also be used to trickle charge batteries that are likely to be left unused for long periods. The Booster and Starter charger simply plugs straight into the mains supply and is claimed to be very simple to operate.

The Sparkrite Booster Starter and Charger is available at £39 including free carriage when ordered online from carparts-direct.co.uk.