Electrical energy is used in many parts of your vehicle, from the headlights to the radio, but its principal purpose is to furnish the electric spark required to ignite the fuel in the cylinders. This is performed by an electrical scheme made up of a battery, starter motor, alternator, ignition system distributor, ignition coil, and ignition switch.
The starter motor generates the power to take the engine through its first motions. The initial voltage comes from the battery, which is kept charged up by the alternator. The alternator produces electrical electric current from the movement of the engine, much like windmills generate electricity from the movement of air or water. So clearly it’s important for the battery to be charged to generate the initial voltage.
Corrosion accumulates around battery posts and actually creates a conduit for power to slowly
drain from the battery, which can leave you stranded. Our battery service in Hartford, North Haven and Wallingford, CT will remove and clean all terminals and cables. The battery posts will be insulated from the battery case with battery protectors and a special sealant for protection will be added.
Automobile electrical systems are becoming a lot more intricate and are pushing the bounds of current technology, but they’re fundamentally the same as they were 30 years ago. There are a few things do-it-yourselfers’ can do to avoid being electrically-challenged in the middle of nowhere. A quick overview of the major components of your vehicle’s electrical system might be helpful, along with some troubleshooting tips.
The battery is the storehouse of power used to start your engine and support the electrical accessories installed in your car. All batteries lose charging capacity over time. Knowing the condition of your car’s battery is the best way to determine if you should suspect other electrical system components. You want to avoid installing a starter or alternator unnecessarily, which will not repair your vehicle if the battery is inadequate.
If your vehicle begins to show signs of a charging or starting system failure, the first thing you should do is a visual test of the battery, but before replacing, have both the battery and your electrical system tested. For a free battery test at any Executive Auto Group service center, just mention this post. Replacing a weak battery only due to a faulty alternator or drain on your system can be expensive and potentially unsafe. The average battery lasts 3-5 years and a quick way to confirm if your battery needs recharging is by noting the “eye” on the battery.
This small clear plastic circle on the top of your battery will tell you if the battery is charging based on the color you’ll see by looking inside. While different battery manufacturers use varied colors a red color is almost always the sign of a defective battery, but certainly one in need of a charge.
Alternator
The average alternator today will generally last around 5 years and a dead battery could be the result of a dead alternator. Keeping an eye on the warning light on your dashboard is important to catch any trouble early. To make sure the warning light is functioning properly, turn the ignition switch to the “on” position without cranking or starting the engine. The “idiot light” should come on indicating the wiring is OK and the alternator is working properly. A complete diagnosis is the best confirmation that the alternator is performing as it should, but this is helpful for early identification of a developing problem.
Car Starter Motor
Another major component of your car’s electrical system is the starter. Even though you use it only a few times a day, it is the largest power draw and perhaps the most critical to your car’s operation. Most starters outlast a new vehicle’s warranty as long as it’s not overused, good connections are kept up and it doesn’t get hot regularly due to dirt and grime buildup.
You should have your vehicle’s electrical system checked and tested every two years, sooner if you sense a problem. A complete and thorough test involves much more than sticking a voltmeter on the battery. Most do-it-yourselfer’s would have little need to purchase test equipment, beyond a voltmeter so if that doesn’t identify a problem, get a thorough checkup done by a certified auto electrical technician that knows your car manufacturer’s system.
Most early problems start from poor electrical connections due to loose connections and/or buildup of corrosion, especially at the battery posts. Keep that battery clean!
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