Auxiliary Battery Repair Service Costs
Mercedes-Benz Auxiliary Battery
Typical service time: 1-1.5 hours
Expected cost range: $125-$187.50 (labor only)
Additional parts cost: $150-$300 for OEM battery
Note: Located under the hood, generally straightforward access
BMW Auxiliary Battery
Typical service time: 1.5-2 hours
Expected cost range: $187.50-$250 (labor only)
Additional parts cost: $200-$400 for OEM battery
Note: Usually located in trunk area, may require removal of panels
Audi Auxiliary Battery
Typical service time: 1-2 hours
Expected cost range: $125-$250 (labor only)
Additional parts cost: $175-$350 for OEM battery
Note: Location varies by model, some require partial interior disassembly
Porsche Auxiliary Battery
Typical service time: 2-3 hours
Expected cost range: $250-$375 (labor only)
Additional parts cost: $250-$500 for OEM battery
Note: Complex access in some models, may require specialized diagnostic reset
*All prices are estimates and may vary based on vehicle model, year, and condition. Additional diagnostic time may be required in some cases. Parts prices subject to market fluctuations.
Auxiliary Battery Repair Procedures by Type
Lead-Acid Auxiliary Battery
Common repair steps:
- Test battery voltage using a multimeter
- Check for corrosion on terminals and clean if necessary
- Top up electrolyte levels with distilled water (for non-sealed batteries)
- Perform load test to check battery capacity
- Charge battery if voltage is low
- Replace battery if it fails load test or shows signs of physical damage
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Auxiliary Battery
Common repair steps:
- Check battery voltage with multimeter
- Inspect for physical damage or swelling
- Clean terminals and connections
- Test charging system
- Perform load test
- Replace if faulty (AGM batteries cannot be refilled or repaired internally)
Lithium-Ion Auxiliary Battery
Common repair steps:
- Diagnostic scan to check battery management system
- Verify voltage levels
- Check for error codes
- Test charging circuit
- Inspect battery connections
- Replace entire unit if faulty (individual cell repair not recommended)
Gel Cell Auxiliary Battery
Common repair steps:
- Check voltage readings
- Inspect for cracks or damage
- Clean terminals
- Test charging system
- Perform load test
- Replace if defective (gel batteries cannot be serviced internally)
Important Safety Note:Battery repair should only be performed by qualified technicians using proper safety equipment. Batteries contain hazardous materials and can be dangerous if handled incorrectly.
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and battery manufacturer specifications.
Understanding Auxiliary Batteries
An auxiliary battery, also known as a secondary or house battery, is a separate battery system installed in addition to your vehicle's main starting battery. Here's what you need to know about different types of auxiliary batteries:
Deep Cycle Auxiliary Battery
What it is:A battery specifically designed to provide steady power over long periods and withstand repeated discharge/recharge cycles.
What it does:Powers camping equipment, fridges, lighting systems, and other accessories without draining your vehicle's main battery. Ideal for camping, caravanning, and extended off-grid use.
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Auxiliary Battery
What it is:A sealed lead-acid battery where electrolyte is absorbed into fiberglass mats between the lead plates.
What it does:Provides reliable power for vehicle accessories, with excellent vibration resistance and no maintenance required. Perfect for 4x4s and vehicles with multiple electronic accessories.
Lithium Auxiliary Battery
What it is:A lightweight, high-performance battery using lithium-ion technology.
What it does:Delivers consistent power output with faster charging capabilities and longer lifespan than traditional batteries. Ideal for high-demand applications and weight-sensitive installations.
Gel Cell Auxiliary Battery
What it is:A sealed lead-acid battery where the electrolyte is suspended in a gel form.
What it does:Provides reliable power with excellent deep cycling capabilities and resistance to extreme temperatures. Well-suited for marine applications and environments with significant vibration.
Standard Lead-Acid Auxiliary Battery
What it is:A traditional flooded lead-acid battery similar to standard car batteries.
What it does:Offers basic auxiliary power at an economical price point. Suitable for basic camping setups and occasional use, though requires regular maintenance.
Note: The choice of auxiliary battery depends on your specific needs, budget, and intended use. Consider factors such as capacity requirements, charging methods, and installation space when selecting an auxiliary battery.
Common Symptoms of Auxiliary Battery Failure
Signs of Auxiliary Battery Failure & Maintenance Guide
Lead-Acid Auxiliary Batteries
Signs of Failure:
- Slow cranking of auxiliary equipment
- Battery not holding charge
- Swollen battery case
- Rotten egg smell
- Corroded terminals
- Battery is more than 3-4 years old
Maintenance Schedule:
- Check electrolyte levels every 3 months (flooded types)
- Clean terminals every 6 months
- Load test annually
- Replace every 3-5 years
AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Auxiliary Batteries
Signs of Failure:
- Decreased performance in auxiliary systems
- Longer charging times
- Battery not maintaining voltage under load
- Physical damage or bulging
Maintenance Schedule:
- Inspect connections every 6 months
- Test voltage quarterly
- Replace every 4-8 years depending on usage
- No water maintenance required
Lithium-Ion Auxiliary Batteries
Signs of Failure:
- Significant capacity loss
- Unusual swelling
- Overheating during use or charging
- Battery management system (BMS) warnings
Maintenance Schedule:
- Monitor BMS readings monthly
- Check connections annually
- Replace every 8-10 years
- No regular maintenance required beyond monitoring
Gel Cell Auxiliary Batteries
Signs of Failure:
- Reduced capacity
- Slow recovery after discharge
- Physical damage
- Age beyond 5 years
Maintenance Schedule:
- Inspect terminals every 6 months
- Check voltage quarterly
- Replace every 5-7 years
- No electrolyte maintenance needed
Note: All battery maintenance schedules assume normal use conditions. Extreme temperatures, heavy usage, or harsh environments may require more frequent maintenance or earlier replacement.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
