To save on fuel costs and emissions, many modern vehicles now come equipped with start/stop technology. Start/stop (SS) technology automatically shuts off your engine when you’re stationary, like at traffic lights or in heavy traffic, and restart it when you release the brake.
You can buy a stop/start battery from Marshall Batteries with an 18-month national warranty.
Each Marshall battery product name breaks down into five key parts:
- Application: “SS” for Start/Stop systems.
- Technology: “AGM” (Absorbed Glass Mat) or “EFB” (Enhanced Flooded Battery).
- Capacity/Size: A numeric value representing battery capacity or dimensions (e.g., “44”).
- Market Specification: Letters indicating the region or market (e.g., “EU” for European standard).
- Terminal Orientation: “R” (right) or “L” (left), which refers to the terminal placement.
For example:
- SSAGM-44EU: A Start/Stop AGM battery with a capacity of 44, for the European market.
- SSEFB-55EU: A Start/Stop EFB battery with a capacity of 55, also for Europe.
To make sure you’re getting the right battery, run your vehicle details through our battery finder tool.
Table of Contents
What is start/stop battery technology?
SS technology is designed to improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions. They cost more than traditional car batteries upfront, but are better for your wallet in the long run.
The system relies on specialised batteries, which are more powerful than standard car batteries, that can handle the frequent charge-discharge cycles.
The most common types of stop/start batteries are Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) and Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB).
- AGM batteries are particularly robust, using absorbent mats to soak up electrolytes, boosting performance and preventing spillage.
- EFBs, while more affordable, are also designed to handle repeated cycling, making them a cost-effective choice for less demanding systems.
These batteries don’t just start your car. Start/stop batteries power essentials like air conditioning, lights, and infotainment systems when the engine’s off.
Advanced sensors constantly monitor charge levels and operating conditions to ensure the system only activates when it’s ready, avoiding unnecessary wear or failures.
If your car has start/stop functionality, choosing a quality start/stop battery is crucial – it’s doing far more than just turning the engine over.
Why Australian drivers should care
Start/stop batteries are specifically designed to perform in challenging conditions, so they’re excellent for modern cars in the Australian climate. For modern vehicles, a reliable start/stop battery will give you confidence on the road.
A high-quality start/stop battery is built to withstand extreme temperatures, long distances, and stop-and-go traffic – perfect for Aussie travel.
Marshall Batteries offers a range of batteries to suit your start/stop system. We ensure quick roadside battery replacements nationwide, meaning you never have to worry.
Use our battery finder to check if your car battery needs an upgrade.
If you ever get stuck, just Holler For A Marshall – Call 1300 MARSHALL.
AGM vs. EFB Start/Stop batteries
AGM batteries are the preferred choice for heavier vehicles with more advanced power demands. EFBs are more affordable and suited to everyday passenger vehicles.
| Feature | AGM Battery | EFB Battery |
| Design | Sealed with absorbent glass mats to hold electrolytes. | Enhanced version of standard flooded batteries, to suit start/stop systems. |
| Cost | More expensive due to advanced battery technology. | More affordable than AGM. |
| Durability | High durability and vibration resistance. Great for off-road. | Moderate durability – recommended for on-road use only. |
| Lifespan | Slightly longer than EFB. | Slightly shorter than AGM. |
| Compatibility | Ideal for advanced start/stop systems with regenerative braking. | Suitable for standard passenger start/stop systems. |
| Climate Tolerance | Performs well in extreme temperature (heat and cold). | Performs well, but less effective in extremes. |
| Recharge Performance | Superior charge acceptance and faster recharge, utilising regenerative braking. | Good charge acceptance but slower than AGM. |
When should you replace a start/stop battery?
Passenger vehicle stop/start batteries will generally last 2-5 years. AGM Batteries will last longer than the more cost-effective EFB battery. Normally AGM batteries last between 3-5 years, compared with 2-4 years for the EFB. A battery will lose its recharging ability over time and become less reliable for your start/stop system and your car’s electronic demands.
Your battery should be replaced if your battery dash warning message/light comes on.
If it hasn’t come on, but your stop/start system has stopped working, or you’ve noticed it becomes intermittent, your car battery is likely at the end of its life. Check your battery health free at your nearest Marshall Batteries store to avoid getting stuck at an inconvenient time and place.
Use our Battery Finder Tool to find your best battery replacement, and decide if a battery upgrade is right for you.
Trust Marshall for quality Start/Stop batteries, made for Australian conditions
Built with Australia’s unique driving conditions in mind, at Marshall Batteries we’re proud to provide a range of quality Start/Stop batteries to suit your every need, with an 18 month national warranty.
It’s easy to put your vehicle details into our Battery Finder Tool and find the best option.
We have 24/7 Roadside assistance, nationwide! If you ever get stuck, Holler for a Marshall anytime on 1300 MARSHALL.
Answering common questions about start/stop battery technology
Is a start-stop battery an AGM battery?
Yes, AGM batteries are all start-stop, but not all start-stop batteries are AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) batteries. Enhanced Flooded Batteries (EFB) are another option for start-stop systems; they’re more cost-effective but slightly less powerful.
Is auto start-stop bad for the battery?
No, start-stop systems are not bad for your car battery. Auto start-stop systems increase the demands on a car battery by requiring frequent starts, but modern AGM and EFB batteries are designed to handle this load. However, using a non-compatible battery can lead to faster degradation
How does a start-stop battery work?
Start-stop batteries work in different ways, but all are designed for high-performance cycling, meaning they can provide energy for frequent engine restarts and quickly recharge while driving.
What is the downside to the start-stop engine feature?
While start-stop systems save fuel and reduce emissions, replacement costs for AGM or EFB batteries can also be higher compared to conventional batteries. However, we think you save costs in the long run with better fuel efficiency.