Electrical issues can be more challenging to diagnose than other car problems. This is because there is simply such a wide variety of things that can go wrong. Therefore, it is always wise to go to a qualified auto electrician to check your car if you think you have an electrical issue.
At The Service Centre, we can repair all advanced electronic management systems fitted in modern-day cars. In addition, our auto electricians in Maitland and Thornton use a car diagnostic scanner to diagnose and address error codes on your vehicle, whatever they may be.
In this article, we go through some of the frequently seen electrical problems car owners may experience and how to prevent them.
8 electrical problems you might have in your car
Dead battery
One of the most common electrical problems in cars is a dead battery. Without a functioning battery, your car won’t start. In most cases, if you turn the ignition key and your vehicle doesn’t start, the culprit is most likely a dead battery. Generally, the lifespan of a car battery is between 4-6 years. However, you can usually stop this problem from happening through regular driving. The alternator charges your car battery as the car moves, and so leaving your whip parked in the driveway for extended periods can lead your battery to lose its charge. Other signs that a battery may be running low include dimmer lights than usual, both inside and out.
Failed engine starter
A failed engine starter is also a common electrical problem in cars. The starter is a small motor powered by the car’s battery, and it does what it says on the tin – start the car. Several symptoms point toward a failed engine starter:
- If there’s a clicking noise when turning the key or pushing the start button, but the engine won’t start
- If the lights turn on, but the engine won’t start
- If there’s smoke coming from the front of the car
If your car won’t start and you notice any of these issues, you may have a failed engine starter.
Broken alternator
The alternator is commonly known as the heart of the electrical system in a car. The alternator is responsible for sending power to the electrical parts of your vehicle, such as the windows and headlights. Here are a few signs that you might have an issue with your alternator:
- Radio issues
- Loss of speed in the car
- Flickering headlights
- Power windows not working
If you start noticing these signs, it is essential to take your car to professionals such as The Service Centre for maintenance and repairs to prevent further issues.
Blown fuse
Experiencing a blown fuse in your car is a common issue. Fuses protect a car’s wiring and other electrical components by interrupting the circuit if there is an issue. A blown fuse is usually caused by a circuit overload, which can melt the ribbon, thus stopping power at the fuse point. Unfortunately, a fuse cannot be repaired; it must be replaced. However, it is usually an inexpensive and easy task to perform.
Spark plug issues
Spark plugs provide the spark that ignites the solution of petrol and air in your car’s combustion chamber. Like any other car part, there are times that a spark plug will break and stop working. To identify a spark plug issue, look for:
- A reduction in gas mileage
- Hard starts (at the worst times)
- Engine misfires
- Bumpy idling
- Diminished acceleration
When you start experiencing these issues, you need to see a mechanic like the professionals from The Service Centre.
Burnt out globes
Burnt out globes are another common problem. Car bulbs have a finite lifespan which diminishes as you use them. Most commonly, the low beam headlights, position lights, and high beam headlights burn out first – unsurprisingly, as they are the most frequently used lights.
Other factors can lead to a burnt-out globe, including:
- Vibrations
- Temperature fluctuations
- Water leaking into the housing
In almost all cars, replacing the bulb is quick and straightforward, but it’s an important thing to go for a light bulb replacement at The Service Centre.
Problems with one of the car’s sensors
Cars nowadays are filled with more sensors than you can shake a stick at, so unsurprisingly, more sensors can fail! Here’s a list of a few of the sensors that can break down:
- The knock sensor
- Oxygen sensor
- Coolant sensor
- MAP (Manifold Absolute Pressure) sensor
- MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor
- Engine oil level sensor
- Crankshaft/camshaft position sensors
- Many others
The symptoms for these can be diverse, so if you suspect that one of your sensors might have packed it in, be sure to take it to a qualified auto electrician.
Do You Have Car Electrical Problems? Contact us at The Service Centre
Our leading mechanics provide expert car service and repairs to Maitland & Thornton and its surrounds. The Service Centre’s are a group of mechanical workshops focusing on providing quality car servicing & maintenance to the people of Newcastle & the Hunter Valley areas.
With over 50+ years of experience in the car servicing space and a team of expert car mechanics, you can expect unparalleled quality and peace of mind when dealing with either of The Service Centres.
With a desire to constantly improve and experience from workshops of all sizes, we have built a system to maintain your car to the manufacturer’s specifications while still providing the customer service of a small family business.
If you have any kind of electrical issue with your car, be sure to get it serviced by a team of professional auto electricians, like those at The Service Centre.
