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eTyres care about our customers. The
following article may be of interest.
Automotive Care: Alternators, Batteries, And
Fuses
by Matthew C. Keegan
Your car's electrical system runs because of several
essential components including: a battery, fuses, and an
alternator. When any one of these components fail, your
car won't run or it will perform poorly. Unfortunately,
it isn't always apparent which part is giving you the
trouble. We'll examine each component, discuss its
unique characteristics, and outline simple maintenance
options to help you make the proper diagnosis.
1. Alternators. Car alternator problems are usually
noticed when you realize the juice to your headlights
has been reduced. No longer can you see hundreds of feet
in front of you, instead the light barely makes it past
the front bumper. Check the wires leading to the
alternator and make sure that they are secure and free
of corrosion. Examine your alternator belt for cracks as
well as for tension. If your headlights are still dim,
then it is likely your alternator will have to be
replaced. Don't put it off as the alternator can drain
your battery.
2. Batteries. If your car won't start, your battery may
be to blame. Most cars come equipped with sealed,
maintenance free batteries. Still, "maintenance free"
isn't an entirely correct designation as corrosion can
build up on the terminals causing an otherwise fine
working battery to fail. Remove the cables, clean with a
wire brush, and reattach the cables. Apply lubricant to
each terminal to limit future corrosion. If your car's
battery is not "maintenance free" add distilled water to
each cell as needed. Use a good set of jumper cables to
get your car started. If the car still won't start the
battery is either completely shot or the starter or
solenoid [relay] are not working. Battery life varies
depending on what type of battery is in your car and
usage; consider replacing your battery every 3-5 years
before problems arise.
3. Fuses. Your dash lights may be working, while your
left rear blinker has failed. If that is the case, it is
likely your electrical problems are with the fuses. You
can pull off the fuse panel [usually located under the
dashboard] and check to see which fuse has burned out.
Today's cars use transparent blade style fuses that are
rectangular in shape. Observe each fuse and see if the
internal wire has burned out. You can find the fuse fast
if the auto manufacturer has labeled each one by
circuit. If not, you will have to determine by a process
of elimination which fuse has failed and replace it.
Batteries and fuses are widely available at auto supply
stores and most will carry a selection of alternators
too. If you find prices for your Ford alternator or BMW
alternator are too high, you can save plenty of money on
original equipment manufactured parts with some of the
reputable online providers. Shop with those retailers
who have the widest selection of inventory, the best
prices, and the most favorable shipping and return
policies.
About the Author
Matt Keegan is a contributing writer for Car Parts
Stuff, an online supplier of high quality and well
priced automobile parts. |
