Auto Electrical Repair

Older vehicles may have simple mechanical components that are easy to self-diagnose and service in your home garage, but modern vehicles are a completely different story. Almost all modern cars are outfitted with complex and sophisticated electrical components rather than traditional mechanical ones. Troubleshooting and repairing the electrical systems of today’s vehicles takes more than simply a working baseline knowledge of general mechanics. The need for specialty training and electronic diagnostic equipment makes do-it-yourself home vehicle repair difficult, unfeasible, or even impossible for most automotive enthusiasts. When your vehicle requires auto electrical repair, it is time to take it to professionally trained technicians who have the tools, training, and resources needed to pinpoint the exact nature of an electrical problem.

The importance of servicing your auto electrical system

A fault in one of your vehicle’s many electrical system components may cause only a minor inconvenience, or it could be very serious. You may experience anything from your stereo not working to your vehicle not starting at all. An electrical component shorting out and causing a fire is a more rare, worst-case scenario that highlights the importance of having electrical problems addressed quickly.

How often to have your auto electrical system serviced

Unlike oil changes and other preventative automotive services, an electrical system service is generally a form of repair. Due to the reactionary, problem-based nature of electrical system repair services, there is no time or distance-based recommendation for such services. Vehicle owners wishing to keep their electrical systems at peak performance can request periodic load tests and perform electrical connection inspections to catch any faulty or loose connections early before they develop into more severe problems. You should have your vehicle's electrical system inspected and serviced if your car is displaying symptoms that could be linked to an electrical component malfunction.

How to tell if your vehicle’s electrical system needs to be serviced

Since nearly every system of your modern vehicle includes electrical components, the symptoms of an electrical system malfunction are varied. Some of the more common warning signs of electrical problems include:

• Grinding, clicking, or no response when you attempt to start your vehicle
• Dashboard lights which are not illuminating properly
• Vehicle headlights dimming when driving at low speeds
• Brake lights not illuminating or dimming
• Battery draining or not holding a charge
• A burning smell, especially one that smells like plastic, rubber, or something melting
• Smoke
• GPS, stereo, or other electronics malfunctioning or not powering on
• Battery cable or terminal corrosion
• Battery leaking
• Blown fuse, especially a repeated blown fuse in the same location
• Lurching or rough idling

Electrical problems should be addressed quickly to maintain vehicle health, safety, and longevity. You can also perform some basic at-home electrical system care by checking the battery terminal connections on a regular basis. Look for a tight connection and remove any debris or buildup that has accumulated. If you discover a battery leak, bring your vehicle in for service.

What is included in an electrical system service?

Depending on your vehicle’s specific needs and concerns, our service technicians will inspect, troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair electrical components in the following systems:

• Wiring
• Ignition systems
• Heating and air conditioning
• Starters and alternators
• Fuel injection

Electrical repairs are also available for:

• Airbag controls
• Lights
• Anti-lock braking systems
• Gauges
• Power windows and locks
• Dashboard displays
• Radio and stereo equipment

If electrical symptoms are plaguing your vehicle, give us a call. We will take the guesswork out of the equation by using our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to troubleshoot and identify the problem. With rapid identification and repair, we will have you back on the road as quickly as possible.