How Often You Should Check Your Complete Auto Electrical System?

 

When you own a car, one of the most crucial things you need to do is to keep its maintenance under control. While it can seem costly and complicated, it can actually save you a lot in the long run. Even if you aren’t a DIY wizard, there are ways to maintain your car without unexpected and pricey service bills.

Besides learning the basic parts and maintenance, you need to learn how often you should check the complete auto electrical system. This is what powers up your car and if not working properly, can affect the way it runs.

Read on to learn how often you need to check your car’s electrical system!

How Often Do I Need to Check My Car’s Electrical System?

No one wants to spend oodles of money on car issues and repairs, which is why, care and preventative maintenance is required. This goes especially for the car battery, as you won’t be able to go anywhere without it working well.

So when is it absolute time to take it to Nerang Mechanics to have it maintained?

Most manufacturers recommend to have your car’s electrical system tested at least two times a year.

If you live in colder weather, then you need to test the car battery during the late fall and late spring. Cold weather can make car batteries work even harder when starting your vehicle, also slowing down the battery’s chemical reaction and causing it to lose voltage. Plus, batteries can also freeze quicker in a lower temperature, which will require a replacement too soon.

For those in extremely hot weather, you need to watch out for your battery, as its acid can evaporate slowly under heat, resulting in the battery’s inability to fully charge and produce enough power.

You may also consult the car’s owner manual for an exact maintenance schedule and recommendation. The manual would usually include a maintenance chart so you know what services you need to avail and when to do so.

The frequency of electrical system maintenance also depends on how much you use your vehicle. If you drive it frequently or on taxing driving conditions, it requires more checking, around 3-4x a year.

How to Test Your Auto’s Electric System?

Now that you know how many times you’ll need to have your car’s electrical system checked, what are the other signs to help you know it’s time for mechanics to check it out? Here are the common signs you need to watch out for, which can indicate something’s wrong with your auto’s electrical system:

1. Engine Doesn’t Crank Well

The engine requires electrical power in order for it to start. The battery provides the spark to ignite the engine. If ever your engine doesn’t crank properly, then this means you may have a bad battery, alternator, or unrelated electrical problems.

2. There Are Battery Problems

Do you have issues with your battery or alternator? You will know if the battery or alternator doesn’t power up your car as well as it used to. You can also see if the cables experience corrosion or aren’t fitted well.

3. The Car Lights Don’t Work Properly

The turn signals, headlights, brake lights are what help keep you safe on the road, as well as the interior lights to help you see in darker conditions. If any of these lights don’t work at all or begin to dim, it indicated charging malfunctions or a low system voltage.

4. Your Fuses Blow Out

The car fuse box is what prevents short-circuiting or overvoltage. Fuses would read circuits and prevents electrical systems from drawing a ton of current. Sometimes, the fuse blows up without reason, which is normal. If it starts blowing out repeatedly, there may be an issue with your electrical system.

Sometimes, you can even smell bringing plastic or electrical insulation, which is extremely dangerous. Stop driving your car and have it checked immediately.

5. Testing the Battery On Your Own

You can save up on mechanics by doing your own battery testing when there are no serious signs indicating electrical system damage. Follow these tips to test your battery well:

• There are car battery test kits that put a load on your battery, allowing you to see how much cranking power the battery puts out
• If you have an older battery with removable caps, then use a dial or ball tester to check if you have low acid
• Use a multimeter or voltmeter to see if the battery is fully charged, charging it if ever it shows low levels
• During your car battery checks, look out for any corrosion and leaks. It’s best to take it to a professional for this, as they can sense when it’s time for a replacement or repair

Wrapping It Up

There is no one right suggestion on when to have your car maintained. It can depend on a variety of factors, which is why you need to listen to your car and the manufacturer’s of the specific model. That way, you can ensure a working car that runs smoothly for years to come.

I hope that my article answered your question of often you need to check your car’s electrical system. So follow these tips and get your car checked by reputable mechanics now.

Do you have any questions or want to share your tips and experiences on car maintenance? Share it in the comments section below, all your thoughts are much appreciated!