Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
61 20... (Safety) information on AGM battery: Introduction
In September 2002, the first so-called VRLA batteries, better known as AGM batteries came into use. (VRLA stands for V alve R egulated L ead A cid, i.e. lead acid battery with a pressure relief valve; AGM stands for A bsorbent G lass M at, i.e. absorbent glass-fibre fleece)
The constantly increasing energy demand of modern vehicle electrical systems calls for ever more powerful battery solutions. A modern luxury-class vehicle has some 100 actuator motors that have to be fed with electrical current. Added to these are safety, environmental and comfort elements which are increasingly becoming standard features, such as e.g. Antilock Brake System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), steering servo (EPS), electronic chassis and suspension control, heating and air conditioning system and navigation system. Current consumption is considerable even when the vehicle is not in use.
The somewhat higher price compared with a battery of similar size is fully balanced by the following benefits:
- greatly longer service life
- improved starting reliability at low temperatures
- reliable starting of engines with high starting current requirements, e.g. high-performance diesel engines
- 100 % freedom from maintenance
- low risk in the event of an accident (reduced environmental risk)
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.