top of page

ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

 

Vehicle electrical system is very important. Left unchecked, a weak or dead battery can wreak havoc on other electrical system parts, like alternator and starter. If the vehicle electrical system is showing signs of acting up such as slow engine crank, don’t delay. Bring your car to your local auto service centre so they can assess the situation, make sure voltage is correct and prevent further potential damage. In many situations, the cost of repairs could have been minimized by the driver paying attention to the vehicle and taking it in for service work sooner. So in that regard, here are some common sense tips that will help you keep your vehicle operating more economically and for a longer period of time.

 

For safe and reliable operation, every vehicle depends on a fully functional electrical system. Vehicle electrical system includes battery, alternator and starter. Many modern vehicles also feature sophisticated computer systems that affect functions like steering, brakes, sensors, and more. All of these electrical components make it difficult to diagnose the cause of vehicle electrical problems, but most begin and end with your battery.

 

When the ignition switch is turn the vehicle’s electrical system goes into action. The battery provides current to the starter, the starter turns and the alternator gives the battery the energy it needs to power your lights, defroster, wipers and accessories. See how it works: -

Battery

Until your vehicle starts, your battery is providing the car’s entire electrical current. This includes the current to the ignition and fuel systems, which are responsible for creating the combustion necessary for your engine to function. Maintenance-free batteries usually last between 12 to 15 months, so it's a smart idea to replace yours every 1.5 years as a safety measure. Have your vehicle's electrical system checked immediately if:

  • Your vehicle won't start - you turn your key and hear clicking, grinding, or no sound at all

  • Interior or dashboard lights do not illuminate properly

  • Your vehicle runs well, but the headlights dim while you're traveling at low speeds, or idling at a stop

 

Starter

While the battery supplies the power to start your vehicle, the starter is really what gets the engine going. The battery supplies a small amount of power to the starter motor. The starter then rotates the flywheel, which turns the crankshaft and begins the movement of the engine’s pistons. This intricate process is why it’s key to make sure the starter works. It’s difficult to determine when a starter will fail exactly, but an electrical system check at car service centre can help recognize the warning signs. We check if the starter is drawing the proper amount of current. An excessive current draw will indicate a worn starter, while a low current draw points to corroded cables or connections. Not to worry! This is a problem our expert technicians can fix.

 

Alternator

When your engine is running, the alternator keeps the battery charged and the electrical system going. Your car can start with a faulty alternator, but it won’t be able to run for an extended period of time. If the alternator requires replacement, your vehicle’s electrical system will perform erratically, its battery will discharge, and eventually your engine will lose power. A complete electrical system check from car service centre will tell you whether the alternator is generating the proper amount of current and voltage. That way, you have a heads up before your alternator fails.

 

 

bottom of page