You have a full day of deliveries, and your van battery has gone flat. Let’s take a look at how to get back on the road.

Test your battery

Before you blame the battery, run these simple checks:

– Try a spare key in case the battery in your set has gone flat.
– Check that there is petrol in the tank.
– If the ignition doesn’t start, check that your steering isn’t locked and that your tyres are not jammed against the kerb.
– Check the dashboard lights. You are likely to have a flat battery if they flicker or don’t light up.

Unfortunately, your battery could be dead if you have left it for a while before recharging. If this is the case, you will need to replace the battery; however, you can recharge it or try a jump start if you have drained it through overuse.

Battery care tips

There are no hard and fast rules about when to replace a van battery. Generally, they last between three and six years but can fail more quickly depending on how you drive. If getting your van started is a struggle, you could need a new battery; otherwise, it is worth investing in a charger to keep your battery topped up when your van is off the road.

Parking in a garage can prevent your battery from draining in cold weather. Before you lock your vehicle, check that you have switched off your lights and unplugged any accessories that can cause battery drain.

Jump-start your van

Jump-starting your van isn’t difficult with the right equipment. You will need another vehicle, a set of jump leads, or a booster pack. The RAC can help you jump-start your van.

Buy another van

It might seem an extreme solution but buying used vans for sale Bath from a reputable dealer such as cotswoldvancentre.co.uk/buy/used-vans-for-sale/bath eliminates the need to rely on old and failing batteries and other equipment.

Otherwise, ensure your breakdown cover is up to date and take care of your battery to keep your van on the road.