Modern cars are highly-reliant on electrical systems to function properly. The alternator, battery, and control modules coupled with various other electrical systems control much of the functionality of your car. And, if they begin to fail, you may experience a wide variety of issues with your car. Keep reading if you want to know 5 most common signs that show there is an electrical issue in your car.
Even though there are several advanced diagnostic tools available but even with the help of best diagnostic tools it is very easy to misdiagnose the issue.
1. The Engine Won’t Crank Properly.
The engine requires electrical power and fuel for your engine to work. Your battery has to provide the spark that ignites the fuel in your engine. If the battery doesn’t have sufficient charge it will not crank properly. This could mean bad alternator that is not charging the battery, or another unrelated electrical problem.
The most common issue you’ll have is “clicking” when you turn the key and attempt to start your car. This means that there is not enough current flow in the system to engage the engine. Usually, this is caused by a discharged or bad battery, but your starter could also be the source of the issue.
If you hear a “grinding” noise during cranking, this could be because of a bad starter motor pinion, starter motor itself or a worn out flywheel ring.
If your car is older and has high mileage, there is a good chance that there is a issue in an electrical system. Bring it to South End Motors right away to have it checked.
2. You’re Experiencing Battery issues
If you are having issues with your battery, don’t just replace it without checking other electrical systems. Most car batteries last about 3-4 years -if serviced properly. Tt is always worth testing testing charging system at the same time.
We also suggest checking your cables for corrosion, and ensure they’re fitted properly. Generally corroded battery terminals also cause lack of enough current flow for starter motor to crank the motor.
At South End Motors we can check if your battery is in good condition. Once confirmed that battery is healthy it is likely the issue lies elsewhere such as alternator etc.
3. Lights Are Not Working Properly
Your car’s lights are one of the most important things that your electrical system controls. Turn signals, brake lights and headlights keep you safe on the road by signaling other road users, and interior illumination and lamps ensure that you can see what you need to in dark conditions.
If your electrical system is malfunctioning, you may notice that various lights start to dim. Dimming lights indicate charging malfunctions and low system voltage. The culprit could be a dying battery, loose wires, or a malfunctioning alternator or alternator belt.
4. Your Fuses Keep Blowing Out. It can be an electrical issue
Fuses blow where there is a short circuit or overload of circuit by aftermarket accessories. Fuses break the circuits, protecting vulnerable electrical systems from drawing too much current and eventually catching fire.
Occasionally, a fuse may blow for no real reason. In this case, simply replacing it is the only thing you need to do. But if you have a few fuses that blow out repeatedly, you likely have a deeper problem with your electrical systems.
If you have to replace a fuse more than once in a short period of time, get your car to us to have it checked. It’s likely there is an electrical fault or short-circuit causing the issue, and if you don’t fix it, you could end up with further damage to your vehicle.
5. You Smell Burning Plastic Or Electrical Insulation. Sounds like electrical issue.
If you are experiencing any of the above problems and you smell burning plastic or electrical insulation, you should stop driving your car immediately. This is a sure sign of an electrical malfunction or a short circuit, especially if it occurs alongside dimmed lights, blown fuses, and issues cranking or starting your car.
Call us today so we can organise your car towed to South End Motors. Avoid driving, because you could further damage your vehicle, resulting in higher repair costs.
Come To South End Motors For A Thorough Diagnostic Servicing!
If you suspect your car may be having some electrical problems, it’s important to get it serviced right away. If you act quickly, you can avoid expensive repairs like blown control module or other expensive car parts.
