11 March 2020
 Categories: , Blog

Unlike mechanical problems, auto electrical problems may not be easy to diagnose. The excerpt below discusses common auto electrical problems, their diagnosis and repair.

Dead Battery

Does your car have trouble starting? The battery should be your first culprit. Sometimes, the issue could be as easy as a loose terminal. In severe cases, you may have to replace your current battery. Most automotive batteries need to be replaced after a specific mileage or period. As such, check the battery manual to know if it is due for replacement. The battery could also die if you overload your vehicle with devices that require a lot of power to run. For instance, if you install an aftermarket audio-visual system, you need a bigger battery.

A faulty battery can be jump-started. If you own a manual car, you could opt to kick start it. The battery you purchase should be ideal for your climate. People who live in cold climates should buy batteries with a high cold cranking amps (CCA) rating. If you live in a warm climate, buy a battery with a high reserve capacity (RC).

Failing Alternator

Most modern vehicles will produce a warning light at the dashboard if the alternator is dysfunctional. If not, electrical components that rely on the alternator for power may develop problems. For instance, you could experience flickering lights, fuel injector problems, or a dead battery. The alternator can be repaired. However, if the damage is extensive, your mechanic may ask you to purchase a new device. 

Immobiliser and Alarm Problems

Immobiliser and alarm systems are often caused by faulty wiring that creates a short or prevents the system from accessing power. In other cases, the remote batteries could be dead. Disconnect and reconnect the battery. If the system is still dysfunctional, call your mechanic for repairs.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Ignition problems and a drastic drop in power are some symptoms of faulty spark plugs. In severe cases, the vehicle will overheat or have a knock.

Blown Fuses

As part of your routine car inspection and maintenance, you should always check the fuse box for blown fuses. A blown fuse will have a broken wire. It could cause severe electrical problems. For instance, the wires could overheat, and the vehicle could burn up.

Diagnosing and repairing auto electrics should be easy with the above tips. Always work with an experienced and specialised mechanic when handling complex issues.