A flat battery is the most common reason for a vehicle failing to start in winter. You’re stuck, late for work, desperate and waiting for assistance. You may end up buying a new car battery you simply do not need.

Flat batteries account for almost 20% of all vehicle breakdowns in the UK according to the AA and RAC. If you drive short journeys, leave headlights on and heaters blowing whilst stood in traffic you are more likely to be left stranded. Leaving the interior light on after parking is the most common mistake resulting in a flat battery. It’s often just a battery re-charge that’s needed – not a replacement battery.

Calling a garage or breakdown service can be very costly. A rogue mechanic can easily condemn your alternator and recommend the starter motor or battery is changed. By the time the ‘so-called’ faulty part is replaced you cannot prove otherwise. You can be charged a hefty call out fee and sold an item you do not actually need – basically you’ve been scammed.

Mail order specialist, Car Parts Direct provides a simple solution to get a motorist with a flat battery started fast and helps to avoid the risk of buying a part that’s not required. It’s a special battery charger that can also test the level of power in a battery instantly. It can boost start a vehicle in around 15 minutes. The Sparkrite Booster charger can totally re-charge a completely flat battery up to 10 times faster than some ordinary battery chargers. The unit can also indicate if your battery needs replacing.

The Sparkrite Charger works with all types of car batteries, both sealed and unsealed. It simply plugs straight into the mains supply and is claimed to be very simple to use. The unit automatically switches off to avoid overcharging and can also be used to trickle charge batteries that are likely to be left unused for long periods.

The Sparkrite Booster Starter and Charger costs £49.