Concern a machine working properly, expressly senescent cars, requires a piece of endeavor. One angle of motorcar repair that may prove chiefly hard is working on the electrical system. Knowing isolate a problem and fix it can save you money and tickets for broken lights.
Electrical Circuits
If you are experiencing light outages, or if certain functions of the car run by electricity are not working, check that all the circuits have voltage. These are available at automobile supply stores and will fit into the cigarette lighter. They are usually under the steering console. Some car models will have a small diagram next to the circuit box that tells you which circuit work what part. Remove the old circuit and try a new one.
Intermittent Electricity
If you are experiencing a weak signal, or an intermittent one, look for corroded or worn wiring. Find the wire that connects to the part in question and wiggle it to see if the component will cut out. If it does, replace the wire.
Some intermittent electrical problems can be temperature-related. These can be hard to isolate. Trying to duplicate the issue can be difficult if it is cold- or heat-related, so logical guesses may be in order. Also, some intermittent issues may be due to weather issues such as water splashes. These can short a circuit. Look under the car for any worn wiring that is exposed to the elements.
Safety
There is very little chance of serious electrical shock unless you are working on the high-voltage battery, on a hybrid car or on the ignition system. Be careful not to short out wires by touching them together or against metal, as this may cause fire. You can also destroy the onboard electronics and ruin the wiring. Disconnect the battery when working on the electrical system to prevent shock and a short. Unplugging the battery will make the onboard computer forget settings, so plug in a 9-volt memory saver battery. The area that is supposed to have power, such as the windshield wiper mower, the tail or interior, must be tested using a voltmeter or, in the case of a light socket, a 12-volt test bulb. Touch the testing nodes to the socket and see if there is any voltage. If there is not, check the fuse that corresponds to that fixture. Look in your owner's manual for the location of your circuits.
