Don’t Just Change It – Code It
Replacing a car battery is no longer a simple task. In modern vehicles, fitting a new battery without battery reprogramming (also known as battery coding or BMS reset) can lead to warning lights, electrical faults, and reduced battery life.
At Anglia Battery, we specialise in modern car battery replacement and reprogramming, ensuring your vehicle charges and operates correctly from day one. This guide explains what battery reprogramming is, which cars need it, and why it’s essential.
What Is Battery Reprogramming?
Battery reprogramming is the process of updating your vehicle’s Battery Management System (BMS) after a new battery is installed.
Modern cars monitor battery data such as:
- Battery age and condition
- Charging cycles
- State of health
- Electrical demand (start-stop systems, infotainment, safety systems)
When a new battery is fitted, the vehicle must be told it has been replaced. Without battery coding, the car continues to treat the new battery as if it were old and worn.
Why Is Battery Coding Important?
Correct battery reprogramming ensures:
- The battery charges at the correct rate
- Battery lifespan is maximised
- Start-stop systems work properly
- Electrical systems remain stable
Skipping battery coding can result in premature battery failure, even with a brand-new battery.
Which Cars Require Battery Reprogramming?
Battery coding is commonly required on vehicles with:
- Start-Stop technology
- AGM or EFB batteries
- Euro 5 and Euro 6 engines
Common manufacturers that require battery reprogramming include:
- BMW & MINI
- Mercedes-Benz
- Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda & SEAT
- Jaguar & Land Rover
- Volvo
- Newer Ford models
If your vehicle uses an AGM battery, battery coding is always required.
What Happens If You Don’t Reprogram a Car Battery?
Failing to carry out battery coding can cause:
- Shortened battery life
- Stop-start system failure
- Battery or engine warning lights
- Overcharging or undercharging
- Electrical system faults
- Increased alternator wear
Many drivers assume the battery is faulty, when in reality the issue is missing reprogramming.
AGM vs EFB vs Standard Batteries
Understanding the correct battery type is just as important as coding:
Standard Lead Acid Batteries
- Older vehicles
- Usually no coding required
EFB (Enhanced Flooded Batteries)
- Start-stop vehicles
- Often require BMS reset
AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) Batteries
- High-demand vehicles
- Always require battery coding
Installing the wrong battery type or skipping coding can trigger immediate faults.
Professional Battery Replacement & Reprogramming
At Anglia Battery, we provide more than just battery sales. We ensure every battery is correctly selected, fitted, and reprogrammed where required.
Why choose Anglia Battery?
✔ Correct battery specification
✔ AGM & EFB battery specialists
✔ Battery coding & BMS reset
✔ Trade and retail supply
✔ Honest, expert advice
Whether you’re buying a battery online or visiting us in person, we make sure your battery replacement is done properly.
Final Advice: Don’t Skip Battery Coding
Modern vehicles rely on intelligent battery systems. If your car requires battery reprogramming, skipping it can cost you far more in the long run.
Don’t just change it — code it.
If you’re unsure whether your vehicle needs battery coding, contact Anglia Battery for expert advice before replacing your battery.