Starting System

Electrical and Electronic Services comes into picture when a car refuses to start. The starting system utilises several different parts to get the engine up and running. Hence the electrical and electronic services system is quite complex. The car will fail to start if any one of these parts does not do its job. Below are the five common reasons when a car refuses to start.

Failed Ignition Switch

The starter motor is powered by turning the key that generates an electrical pathway. It creates the voltage which is necessary to produce the first sparks in the spark plugs. This ignites the air and fuel mix. If delayed engine cranking, flickering dashboard lights or stalling is experienced just after the car starts, it might mean that the ignition is going out.

Failed Alternator

The alternator is used to produce electricity in the vehicle. If it is not able to generate electricity the battery drains quickly. It will be difficult to power the rest of the starting system if the battery is drained.

Malfunctioning Starter Motor

To get the pistons moving up and down in order to create the necessary combustion, the starter motor spins the flywheel. The motor will not be able to spin if that starter motor fails to do its job. If you hear a loud click or series of clicks when you turn the key, it could be a starter trouble.

Fuel Delivery Problems

The car will not turn on if the amount of gasoline delivered to the combustion chamber is insufficient. The malfunctioning of the injectors, a failed fuel pump or a clogged fuel filter, generally causes the issue. If the engine turns over and over without starting, ensure to check for fuel delivery issues.

Dead Battery

If your vehicle does not start at all, there is a possibility that the battery would be dead. The car does nothing on turning the key, the reason could be a dead battery. You can jump start your car, but depending on the age and condition of the battery, it may need to be replaced.

Starting system

The starting system utilises several different parts to get the engine up and running and hence it is quite complex. The car will fail to start if any one of these parts does not do its job. Below are the five common reasons when a car refuses to start.

Keyless and Drive Authorisation systems

A method of electronic access and authorization of an entry and ignition system is a key-less ignition system. Popular with the name “Smart Key”. Available as an option or standard in several cars. It has been around for many years but there are some concerns about the safety and security of the vehicle. The vehicles that use traditional metal keys are more secure and less vulnerable to hacking than key less ignition systems.

Key-less ignition system

The driver no longer carries a key with a key-less ignition system. But he carries a fob which sends out a radio signal that authorizes the car to start. Either with a push of a button or the turning of a switch, you can do this. A circuit board, a radio transmitter, a battery and an antenna is present inside the fob. When you are generally within 5 to 10 feet away from the vehicle, press the button to unlock doors.

Key-less ignition systems differ across models and manufacturers. The most common types of ignition systems are Push buttons. Rocker-type switches that flipp, and rotary switches that rotate are also available.

Some safety concerns include the following:

  • Do not shut off the engine and walk away from the vehicle without putting the vehicle in ‘Park’.
  • Do not leave the engine running after you have put the vehicle in park.
  • In the event of any on-road emergency, always remember to shut down the engine of the vehicle.

What can I do to make sure my car is turned off?

  • Before shutting down the engine, ensure that the car is in “park”.
  • Before you leave the vehicle unattended, ensure the engine is really shut off.
  • Especially on an incline, always use the vehicle’s parking brake when parking the car.
  • For detailed instructions on how to operate the vehicle properly, check the driver’s manual.

Battery Charging systems and Battery replacement

Battery Replacement

The main source of electrical power of the vehicle is the battery. The battery allows the vehicle to start. The battery gives power to the different parts of the engine, like the fuel pump, starter motor, and engine control computer. This happens when the driver turns the key

The electrical components inside the car are responsible for providing entertainment and information to the driver. These components receive the power from the battery. The battery supplies power to the radio and headlights as well.

What is a Battery?

Filled with electrolyte and lead plates, the battery is a large electrical storage device. When the vehicle is running, the alternator charges the battery. The two posts which protrude through the top of the battery joins the battery to the electrical system of the vehicle. This helps in the movement of the charge through the vehicle to where the need is.

If your vehicle shows the below symptoms, your battery might need replacement:

  • Vehicle is not starting
  • Radio or headlights are not operating or are dim
  • Vehicle is very sluggish to start

Lighting systems and globes replacements

The below causes Car lighting problems:

  • a bad bulb
  • corrosion
  • a loose wire
  • a bad ground
  • an electrical open or short
  • a failed switch or relay

This is not only inconvenient but it can also get you in trouble. Driving with one headlamp out or with no indicator or no brake lights, can cause fines. It can be unsafe and dangerous as well.

A car driver faces lighting problems. Most of these only require replacing a light bulb, cleaning some corrosion, or reattaching a wire.

A burned-out bulb causes single light problems. Electrical circuits are usually the cause of problems with two or more lights in a circuit.

Diagnosis of engine Electrical and Electronics

The following are the most common electrical problems in modern automobiles.

Dead Battery

One of the most common and obvious electrical problem is a dead battery. When turning the key does not turn the engine off, your battery may be dead. Lights and other accessories of the vehicle may still be working. A jump start can usually resolve these issues.

Battery Will Not Charge

Batteries wear out with time. It needs to be replaced if it does not hold the charge.

Bad Alternator

If the battery is not charging it could be because of a damaged or otherwise malfunctioning alternator. The alternator could be a problem, if the vehicle begins to lose electrical function, such as dim headlights, as you drive.

Fatigued Starter or Solenoid

The engine does not turn over if the starter or solenoid goes out. If the starter has gone bad, you can hear loud click or a series of clicks.

Bad Battery Cables

If your vehicle refuses to start it might also be because of a corroded loose battery cable. It is always a good idea to check the connections if the vehicle does not start at all.

Blown Electrical Fuses

If a blown fuse is the culprit of the problem, it is quick and easy fix it.

Failed Spark Plugs

The operation and functioning of the car is affected by loose and dirty plugs. Common symptoms of spark plug trouble are lurching or rough idling.

Repair and Replacement of wiring harness.

The protective outer layer of wires that is used to keep the internal material from becoming exposed is called the wiring harness. Exposed wiring can cuase serious malfunctions to occur in the performance of the car. Exposed wiring can be extremely dangerous as well. Car fires due to faulty wire harnesses or exposed wiring are very common. These can be prevented by paying attention to warning signs and taking preventive actions.

Signs that Your Wiring Might Need Care

When components like tail lights or headlights start receiving power due to the failure of the wiring. Lights will not be working properly. They may be becoming dimmer, unreliable or unsafe. Drivers might face trouble in starting the case if the wiring has become corroded or degraded. Disastrous car fires or significant engine damage ca be caused by degraded wire harnesses.

How to Prevent Wiring Harness Failure

The most effective way to combat this issue is to take ongoing care of your car.  This will eventually prevent you from spending funds on expensive repairs.

To book your next service or for more information on our Services and Mechanics in Truganina, Victoria, you can contact us on +61 426-533-774. We at Western Prestige Auto are proud of ourselves as we fulfil our commitment to delivering world-class services in Truganina, Victoria.

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