In brief: connect an adapter to the vehicle’s OBD port, start the test in the mobile app and receive a battery report in under two minutes. The report includes battery health, vehicle details, the method and clear caveats, ready to use for valuation, in a listing and during the customer meeting.
Three steps from connection to report
The test generally follows the same basic steps, although the exact process may vary between vehicle models and variants. It normally requires no dismantling and is designed to be completed directly in the showroom.
-
Connect through the OBD port
Plug the adapter into the vehicle’s OBD port. The port is fitted to all modern electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles and can be accessed without dismantling or lifting the vehicle.
-
Start the test in the mobile app
Start the automated test with one tap. The process takes under two minutes from connection to completed result.
-
Use the report in the sales process
The report is generated immediately and can support valuation, listings and customer meetings. View a sample battery report.
What the test measures
The test reads battery-related data from the vehicle through its OBD port, including Battery health and available capacity data. Depending on the model, the evidence may include additional diagnostic data points.
The values available depend on the vehicle model and variant. Always check the latest list of supported models before relying on a particular value. To understand what an SoH value does and does not tell you, read our guide to battery health and resale value.
Under two minutes per vehicle
The workflow takes under two minutes from connection to completed report. No expensive workshop equipment is required, and the test is started in the mobile app. This makes it practical to document battery health routinely at trade-in and whenever vehicles enter stock, not just on isolated occasions.
Comparison with other ways to assess a battery
| Method | Time required | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| No test; assessment based solely on age and mileage | Not applicable | Uncertain, with no actual vehicle data |
| Manual workshop inspection | Often time-consuming and requires equipment | Varies between workshops |
| Optiledger via OBD | Under two minutes | Standardised report with SoH and caveats |
The aim is not to replace a complete technical diagnosis. It is to make it quick and simple to obtain comparable evidence for every vehicle in stock.
The result: a clear report
The result is presented in a report containing test results, vehicle details, the method and clear caveats. It is designed to be shown directly to customers without requiring a technical explanation. Learn more about the report or explore the method and data quality in greater depth.
Our guide to presenting a battery report to a customer explains how to use it in practice in listings, valuations and conversations with buyers.
When to use the test in the sales process
- At trade-in: document battery health before assigning a value.
- In stock: give every vehicle comparable evidence ahead of sale.
- In the listing: show that the battery has been tested and documented.
- In the customer meeting: answer battery questions with data instead of assumptions.
Our page for car dealers describes a complete dealer workflow. Optiledger is offered at a fixed monthly price with no per-test fee. Contact us for a quotation.
Requirements and limitations
The test relies on data made available by the vehicle through OBD. Availability and accuracy therefore differ between vehicle models, variants and software versions. Results should always be read together with the caveats stated in the report.
Some plug-in hybrids can be tested, but model coverage and available data vary, just as they do for electric vehicles. If you are unsure about a particular vehicle, check the model list or contact support.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a test take?
The workflow takes under two minutes from connection to completed report.
Which values are measured?
Battery-related data is read through OBD, including Battery health and available capacity data. The precise values available depend on the vehicle model and variant.
Can plug-in hybrids also be tested?
Yes, some plug-in hybrids can be tested. Available data and model coverage vary. Always check the latest model list.
Is advanced workshop equipment required?
No. The test is run from the mobile app through the OBD port and requires no lifting, dismantling or advanced workshop equipment. It can be performed directly in the showroom.
Would you like to see the workflow for yourself?
Book a short demo and we will show you how a battery test works and how the report could support your business.
Book a demo