What You Need to Know About Electrical Issues in Your Car
From the starter motor to the cooling system, virtually every component of your car relies on electricity. While this technology can enhance your driving experience, making it more enjoyable and secure, an increased number of electrical components also means more chances of auto electrical problems.
The auto electrics in your car are part of a complex system; when something goes wrong with the battery or other components, it can cause a range of issues throughout the vehicle.
The main signs that your car requires an auto repair because of an electrical fault include:
- Dimming or flickering lights
- Inability to switch on the radio
- Central locking malfunctions
- An inconsistent starter motor
A qualified auto electrical mechanic can help to identify the precise cause of these problems and resolve them.
Common Auto Electrical Issues
In most cases, your battery or alternator is the culprit behind electrical issues in your vehicle. Some of the more frequently encountered auto electrical problems include:
Flat Battery
A flat battery is the most obvious sign of electrical problems, since when this occurs you will not be able to turn your car on. Flat batteries are usually a result of your car using too much electricity without being recharged by the alternator. Common ways to flatten your car’s battery include accidentally leaving your radio or lights on when the car is switched off. To fix a flat or dead battery, an auto electrician will need to jump start your vehicle to give the battery enough charge to turn on again.
Alternator Problems
The alternator is a crucial electrical component that charges your car’s battery while you drive. Ideally, your car should be able to start up and run efficiently from the moment you turn on the ignition. However, if your car is struggling to start, it could be a sign that the alternator is not working properly. If you are experiencing trouble starting your car – even with a new car battery – you should get in contact with a mechanic for auto electric repairs.
Battery Not Charging
Older batteries, especially ones that have run flat too many times, are more likely to experience serious charging issues. If you are noticing your battery isn’t charging correctly, or that it’s losing charge faster than expected, the only solution is to replace the battery. Ensuring your vehicle gets a regular auto electrical service is one of the easiest ways to stay on top of your battery’s health, as a qualified auto electrician will perform a diagnostic test on your battery and advise you if it needs to be replaced.
Damaged or Loose Wiring
There are some electrical problems that are not caused by your car’s battery or alternator. All it takes is a loose wire or a damaged cable connection to cause the electrical components to malfunction. Over time, the cables that are connected to the battery can become corroded and cause the battery to go flat, which prevents your car from starting. An auto electrician can help identify whether the issues are related to the cables or the battery itself.
Highfields Mechanical is Here to Help
The most effective way to prevent auto electrical issues in your vehicle is to ensure it receives regular maintenance by a trusted auto electrician. It is generally recommended that you schedule an automotive service every six months or 10,000 km. The expert team at Highfields Mechanical is here to help you stay on top of your car’s auto electrical needs.
If your car requires an auto electrical service or repair, give us a call on (07) 4646 1780 or complete our online form, and one of our friendly technicians will be in touch.
The Importance Of Auto Electrical Servicing
Just like standard diesel and petrol cars, electric vehicles need maintenance and servicing to function optimally and keep you safe, year-round.
In general, electric vehicles are known to be low hassle, have low maintenance costs, and are better for the planet than conventional cars. However, to ensure this remains the case, regular auto electrical servicing is vital.
Auto electrical servicing is no more difficult than a conventional car service, but it’s extremely important that it’s carried out by a service centre that specialises electrical vehicles.
At Highfields Mechanical, our mechanics are experts in all things auto electrical. When you choose Highfields Mechanical, you know your car is in good hands, every time.
With all other factors remaining equal, the importance of car electrical repairs is the same as servicing a conventional car. By getting regular auto electrical servicing from a qualified car electrician, you save yourself money on future repairs, maintain your vehicle’s warranty and increase the resale value of your electrical vehicle.
Save yourself money on future repairs
When it comes to electrical cars, it’s important to keep an eye on the quality of your battery pack, in addition to the regular maintenance needs of conventional cars.
Without regular auto electrical servicing by an experienced auto mechanic, your electrical vehicle may experience some additional wear-and-tear.
By getting regular maintenance and services by an auto electrician, Highfields residents can rest assured that the lifespan of their electric vehicles battery pack is preserved, saving you money.
Like any normal car, unexpected things can happen. By getting a regular service, you minimise the chance of having to deal with an unexpected repair that is expensive and time consuming, saving you money in the long-term.
Maintain the warranty on your electrical vehicle
It’s no secret that when it comes to cars, getting regular servicing helps to maintain your manufacturer’s warranty. This is no different with electrical vehicles, when serviced by a qualified car electrician.
At Highfields Mechanical, our mechanics are qualified to service and repair all types of electrical vehicles. Any work completed by our auto mechanics will not interfere with your manufacturer’s warranty and comes with a nationwide guarantee, so that your electric vehicle is in safe hands.
Increase your electric vehicle’s resale value
While electrical vehicles are not yet in the majority when it comes to vehicles driven on Australian roads, they are becoming increasingly popular due to the rise in petrol prices and growing environmental concerns.
This means when it comes time to sell your electrical vehicle, you’re already in a pretty good position for a strong resale value. However, potential buyers are naturally going to favour cars that have been well maintained by an experienced car electrician, seeking the highest-quality car for their dollar spent.
By getting regular auto electrical servicing, you put yourself in the strongest position to sell your electric car and stand out to prospective buyers in comparison to owners who failed to properly maintain their car.
Choose the right car electrician for your service
The benefits of auto electrical servicing speak for themselves, and a lot of the time, your electric car will alert you when it’s due for a service!
Keeping on top of your servicing and choosing the right auto mechanic to undertake your car electrical repair is vital. While electric cars look similar to conventional cars on the outside, they are very different on the inside, and our qualified team at Highfields Mechanical understands that.
If you haven’t gotten an auto electrical service recently or think your car may be in need of a service, contact our expert team today on (07) 4696 7116 or fill out our online booking form.