Most Common Electronic Failures In A Car
The electrical system is one of the most important systems in a car. Its goal is to provide enough power for when the car needs it. Its three main functions are:
- Supply power to the ignition system.
- To start the engine.
- Supply electrical power to lights, horn, sensors, sound equipment, windows, and other accessories.
Common electronic failures
Battery
It is the car’s source of electricity, the one in charge of accumulating the energy that the car’s electrical components need to function. It is also the most common cause of electrical problems.
When the battery is discharged, it causes various problems to the car. This discharge can be caused by several reasons: a faulty component, a loose cable, leaving the lights or radio on for long periods, etc.
How do you solve this problem?
The solution can come from charging the battery directly or connecting it to another battery, with the help of tweezers. When the car is on, it automatically begins to recharge the battery because the alternator that charges it starts to work.
If the battery fails because it is simply old, the solution is to change it. A battery lasts about three years, in cases where the car has little daily use.
Alternator
It is the device in charge of recharging the battery. If it is damaged, the battery drains quickly; When it is not the alternator that is failing, but its belt, the failure is very similar. For this reason, when the engine is cold, it is recommended to check the belt to verify that it is in optimal condition.
Fuses or wires
Fuses are devices used to protect electronic devices that are housed inside; A fuse failure affects the operation of the vehicle.
The entire electrical system of the car is connected by cables and fuses. If for some reason the current rises to the degree of ruining the electronic device, the fuse will blow to cut off the electrical power and thus prevent an overload.
In the car there are many fuses to protect the various electronic components from possible power surges; In the event of a power surge, the fuses will be broken or blown.
In the event of electrical failures and other similar breakdowns, it is advisable to always carry a spare set of fuses in the car.
Plugs
Along with their wiring, the spark plugs are responsible for the engine to start. If the spark plugs or their connections don’t work, the car won’t start; if they work, but badly, the combustion cycle of the engine is affected. This fault, in practice, is one of the easiest to fix.
What are the symptoms of a spark plug malfunction?
- Poor acceleration.
- Fuel consumption increases.
- Irregular activity at rest.
How can you take care of the car’s electrical system?
During servicing, the electrical system is the one that receives the least attention. Here we will see some recommendations to minimize possible failures:
- Control the level of distilled water in the coil, as it tends to evaporate and is used in the cooling system.
- During the checks, take advantage of cleaning the terminals and metal parts.
- Avoid washing the engine, as this generates moisture and corrosion.
- Do not add electronic elements to the car.
- Make sure the battery is well supported. For it to last longer, it must be well gripped.
- Don’t leave too many things running when the engine is off. This generates an extra expenditure of energy, which causes the battery to discharge and last less.
- If the battery has been deeply discharged, it must be disassembled and taken to a specialized place for a slow and controlled charge.
- If you are not going to use the car for a long period of time (holidays for example), disconnect the battery terminals.
- It is not recommended to repair the battery, because touching its internal components will not work the same.
- Keep the connectors in a proper position.
