Is Your Vehicle’s Electrical System Failing? 

Auto Electrical Repair in Santa Clarita, CA 

The Electrical System 

Even though your automobile burns fuel, it has an electrical system. Its 12-volt DC system creates and stores power, supplying it to the engine and electrically powered accessories. The battery stores chemical energy that’s necessary for initial start-up and also buffers the electrical load. The alternator, acting as a battery charger, generates an alternating current (AC) that is then converted to DC (direct current). DC recharges the battery while the engine operates and powers electronics. The starter motor uses battery power to rotate the flywheel, turning the engine to begin combustion. Electrical currents are transmitted to components via wiring and wiring harnesses. Finally, safety features are in place to prevent too much electrical flow from causing damage. These include fuses and relays that cut power if the amount is too high and the voltage regulator that circumvents overcharging. Regardless of the area in which your vehicle needs auto electrical repair, the professional technicians at Valencia Auto Performance and Simply Smog in Santa Clarita, California, are here to help.  

Signs of Trouble 

While it’s always best to have the Valencia Auto Performance and Simply Smog team accurately diagnose your vehicle, there are some signs you may observe that could point toward an electrical problem. An obvious issue is an automobile that won’t start or is slow to crank. Clicking sounds in place of a crank or slow start-up usually mean that the starter isn’t getting enough power. Possible culprits include a weak or dead battery or a bad connection with the battery cable. If your car’s battery keeps dying and doesn’t hold its charge, it’s possible that the alternator isn’t working properly. Also, dim or flickering lights suggest a failing alternator. Another indicator that something is amiss with the electrical system is an illuminated battery light on the dash panel. The condition may also trigger the check engine lamp. If something is improperly grounded or the charging is improper, you may also see the dashboard warning lights flickering when you use features that pull extra electrical power such as the radio or windows. You may also notice malfunctioning of those accessories. Examples include slow operation of power windows, gauge instability, or haphazard entertainment system features. Finally, hot or short-circuiting wires may create a burning odor or even smoke. 

Problems and Fixes 

When you bring your transportation to us, we’ll accurately assess the problem you’re experiencing and correct it. Whether your car has a dead battery, bad alternator, corroded battery terminals, or a blown fuse, we’ll fix it and get you back on the road. If you suspect an issue, bring your vehicle to Valencia Auto Performance and Simply Smog for auto electrical repair.