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This article describes some of the important electrical components of a car and also gives some tips for maintaining its battery. The car’s electrical system is indispensable to the proper functioning of the car. The electrical system is a web of connected wires, relay systems and fuses. It is powered by the car’s battery, which is considered to be the brain of the electrical system. The electrical wirings carry the current supplied by the battery and direct it to other components of the car. The wires vary in thickness, depending on the amount of energy they carry. For example, the wires connecting the starter motor and the battery carry a large amount of energy. Hence they are thicker in size. While the wires to the fuel injectors carry a smaller amount of energy, hence they are thinner. If a large amount of current flows through a small wire, it can lead to overheating and melting of the wire. The car’s electrical system is responsible for powering a large number of components including the defroster, headlights, power seats, switches, interior lighting, cruise control, power windows, computers, wipers, etc. The system of fuses provides protection against electrical malfunctions. If any circuit gets overloaded, the fuse blows and breaks the circuit. A visual check will tell you if the fuse is blown. If it is blown, replace it immediately. Even after replacement, if the fuse blows again within a small span of time, your car needs professional help. Get it checked by an efficient auto electrician. The car’s alternator is another important component of the car’s electrical system. It is responsible for powering different car accessories like radio, horn, lights, etc. during normal engine operation. Older cars had generators (sometimes referred to as a dynamo) instead of alternators. After the battery provides the initial energy to start the car, the alternator takes over the responsibility and provides the constant electrical feed the car needs to operate. The alternator also charges the battery, when it loses some of its energy while starting the car. The alternator is light and smaller and can charge the battery at lower engine speeds. Here are some tips to maintain a car’s battery: >Take your car for a load test on a monthly basis. The load test will evaluate the health of your car’s battery. >Normally a battery lasts for 3 to 4 years. Periodically check the life of the battery and replace if required. >Check the fluid level of the battery and refill it whenever required. >Clean the battery regularly to obtain a long lasting performance. You can use a toothbrush, along with baking soda and water to clean the battery. >Do not overcharge the battery as it can adversely affect its longevity and performance. >The battery cables should be kept tight. If they have become loose, take your car to an auto electric repairs center and get them tightened by a trained mechanic. Robert Louis is a renowned author. He possesses vast knowledge different kinds of automobiles and their different components. In this article, he focuses on a car’s electrical system.
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