
Vehicles today have many components and accessories that are dependent on the electrical system: from the ignition and fuel systems to accessories such as your radio, headlights and wipers. The engine, in turn, powers the electrical system.
Here are the three key components of the electrical system:
Battery
When your car's engine is off, the battery
provides the required power to the rest of the system, as well as
during start-up (cranking). It also supplements the power from the
charging system during periods of high demand.
Charging System
This is the heart of the electrical
system. It consists of three main components: the belt-driven
alternator, various electrical circuits, and a voltage regulator.
The alternator supplies power to the electrical system and recharges
the battery after your car has started. Just like it sounds, the
voltage regulator controls the voltage, keeping it within the
operating range of the electrical system.
Starting System
This system consumes more electrical
power than any other system in your car. The starting system
consists of three components that work in tandem: the ignition
switch, the starter relay or solenoid, and the starter motor. The
ignition switch controls the starter solenoid, which activates the
starter motor. The starter motor then turns the engine until your
car starts.
Battery Visual Inspection
Battery Load Test
Measures the battery's ability to "work." Results are compared to the battery and vehicle manufacturers' specifications.
Charging System Visual Inspection
Charging System Test
Starting System Visual Inspection
Starter Electrical "Draw" Test
Measures the amount of electrical energy required to turn the engine over during cranking. Results are compared to manufacturer's specifications.