WHY MIGHT AN ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ANALYSIS BE IMPORTANT FOR YOUR CAR?
A lack of steady electrical current can create many problems. Two systems work together to produce the wave of voltage that makes up a steady current – the starting system and the charging system. The starting system, which puts the engine in motion, is made up of a starter motor, starter solenoid, starter relay, neutral safety switch, and ignition switch. The starter solenoids and relays can be a part of the starter or mounted on top of it. If the vehicle does “cranks”, the problem may or may not be caused by the starter, depending on the location of the parts in question. Any problems with either of these systems can disrupt a steady electrical current. If you have experienced the following, a lack of steady electrical current is most likely to blame:
- the “Check Engine” light turns on
- the engine stalls or performs under-capacity
- the computer system needed for climate control, ride control, and ABS brakes malfunctions
HOW DOES THE SUPPLY OF CURRENT ACTUALLY WORK?
If these problems are present, an electrical system analysis will help to determine the core issue through a variety of tests. Checking if the starter is pulling more amps than is needed to turn over the engine is done by the “starter draw test”. The battery in the vehicle has to be able to maintain enough voltage to turn the starter. The charging system then takes over. The alternator, alternator drive belt, and voltage regulator work together as a unit, called the charging system, to supply enough voltage to run your vehicle’s components, while continuously re-charging your battery to prevent it from going dead in use. Checking if the other components of the electrical system are in working order, as well as if voltage is present in appropriate locations at appropriate levels, is done by the “circuit test”.
WHY MIGHT A BATTERY GO DEAD DUE TO AN ELETRICAL DRAIN?
- a short circuit
- undercharging due to a bad drive belter, alternator, or voltage regulator overcharging, which can cause serious and expensive damage to highly sensitive computer electronics, and your battery.
Getting an electrical system diagnosis done right the first time will prevent any additional costs or hassles in the future. You can trust the technicians at 7 to 7 Auto Repair to be accurate, careful, and honest as they service you and your vehicle.
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