Your vehicle’s electrical system is often overlooked until a critical vehicle component or function fails. The electrical system is vital to your vehicle’s operation, and vehicle owners should be familiar with the more common problems that may result from electrical system issues. In this month’s blog post, we examine the electrical system and a few of the common problems you may experience.
Electrical System Function
The electrical system serves a simple purpose – to produce electrical currents that control everything from the ignition of the vehicle to the lights and cabin accessories. Not only does the electrical system produce the necessary electrical current, but it is designed to recharge the power, and distribute it to other electrical devices in the vehicle.
The electrical system is a complex system, but the three important components of this system, include:
- Battery – provides the initial electrical charge to the starter and alternator.
- Starter – uses the charge from the battery to crank the engine and get the motor moving.
- Alternator – recharges the electrical current produced by the vehicle and distributes additional power to the electrical devices.
There are many other parts to the electrical system, but these three are the ones that you will most likely experience a problem with when there is wear, tear, or damage to the system.
Common Electrical System Problems
Electrical system problems tend to show up when we least expect them, and they can have a significant impact on the ability to operate your vehicle. The most common problems you may experience include the following:
- Dead Battery – Most of us have probably experienced a dead battery at some point when turning on the ignition. The lifespan of most batteries is only a few years, so if they are neglected or old, they may fail. Many drivers might get a jump start and be able to extend the battery use but when it has reached its end, a battery cannot hold a charge. Have your battery checked to see if it is holding a charge. If the battery is unable to hold a charge, it’s time for a new one.
- Failed Starter Motor – A failed starter is when the starter motor no longer works because it is burned out, or you have a faulty solenoid. You may think it is a dead battery but typically a failed starter motor may not make any noise when you turn the ignition. The starter is responsible for cranking the motor so when it fails, you will not be able to start your vehicle. To rectify this issue, the motor is replaced.
- Bad Spark Plugs – Your spark plugs work to ignite your vehicle’s fuel source. Plugs can become worn or dirty and begin to fail. You may have trouble in starting the vehicle, or a misfire when the plugs are faulty. If so, the plugs should be replaced.
- Faulty Alternator – The alternator recharges the electrical currents in your vehicle and provides power to other electrical components. If it fails, you may notice that your lights are dimmed or flickering. You may also have a dashboard warning that indicates an alternator issue and a need for alternator replacement.
- Blown Fuses – Similar to the electrical system in your home, your vehicle’s electrical system uses fuses to protect from an overcurrent. If there is a surge of electricity, the fuses become damaged from the additional electrical current, which prevents electrical components from operating. All fuses that are involved should be replaced to fix the issue.
Maintain Your Electrical System Health
There are some things that you can do to maintain your electrical system. As part of your maintenance routine, you can have your electrical components inspected by a service professional. This may include a thorough inspection and possible repairs of the following:
- Battery
- Fuses
- Wiring
- Lights
Make sure to discuss any concerns with your service professional if you feel there is an electrical problem. It is always better to address small problems before they become expensive and inconvenient issues. To schedule an appointment for a review of your electrical system, contact our service professionals at Geller’s Automotive.
