Auto Electrician is a specialist that repairs electrical problems in motor vehicles. They also fit accessories like GPS navigation, parking sensors and LCD screens at a client’s request.
Modern cars use many computers to control their various systems – from infotainment to cruise control and safety features. These require specialist knowledge that a general mechanic doesn’t have.
A battery is a power source that converts chemical energy into electrical energy. It consists of one or more electrochemical cells that have external connections for powering devices like electric cars and household appliances. A battery has two electrodes—a positive terminal called the cathode and a negative terminal called the anode. Chemicals from the anode and cathode react with each other to produce electricity. These reactions take place inside the battery’s insulated box, which also contains an electrolyte solvent. Batteries can be very dangerous when overcharged, which can cause them to explode. This often happens during “jump starting” a car, when high currents generate large volumes of hydrogen.
A popular term for a battery is ‘energy density’, which refers to the amount of energy it can hold in relation to its size. The higher the energy density, the smaller the battery can be while still producing a certain amount of electricity.
The voltage and capacity of a battery depend on the strength of the reactions that take place at each electrode. By connecting batteries in series (stacking them end-to-end, with the anodes of each connected to the cathodes of the next), you can increase the voltage while keeping the capacity the same. Be careful when connecting batteries in parallel, however; if the voltage levels are different between cells, a short circuit can occur.
Starter motor
The starter motor is the large electric motor that turns over or cranks the engine to start it. It is powered by the battery, which supplies a high amount of current to run it. The starter motor is a key component of the electrical system in a car, so it’s important to check it for damage or problems with its function. The first step in troubleshooting the starter motor is to make sure it has a full charge and that the battery connections are secure. Then, follow the power cable leading to the starter to ensure there’s no slack or signs of corrosion.
There are several different types of starter motors. The most common is a magnetic starter, which uses electromagnetic coils to control the contacts of the power circuit. These contacts are normally closed, but when the control button is pressed the contactor’s coils energize to pull the contacts together. When the button is pushed again, the contactor’s coils de-energize and break the contacts, allowing the current to flow.
Other kinds of motor starters use an autotransformer to reduce the voltage. This type of starter is more complex & expensive than others, but it offers high voltage for starting and low voltage for running. It also provides protection against overcurrent & overheating.
Another type of motor starter is a solenoid starter, which has two coils of wire wrapped around a movable core. The starter solenoid acts like a switch, connecting the starter to the vehicle’s battery. A plunger connected to the starter motor and solenoid moves forward to engage the pinion and spin the flywheel, cranking the engine.
While it’s possible that a battery may be dead, the most likely cause is an electrical problem in the car’s starter system. When a starter motor fails, it’s usually because the battery has lost its charge or it doesn’t have enough current to turn over the engine. A symptom of this is that the starter won’t work when you press the start button, or there’s a single click but nothing happens at all. A trained auto electrician can replace the starter motor if needed, but it’s also worth checking the battery terminals & connections to see if they need cleaning or tightening.
Electronics
Modern cars use a lot of electrical devices to keep them running. This includes everything from braking to infotainment systems. These computers and their accompanying wiring make our vehicles safer, more efficient, and better performing. Unfortunately, they aren’t infallible and will eventually need maintenance or repairs. That’s where auto electricians come in.
An auto electrician needs to know how to read and understand schematics, as well as be able to use diagnostic tools to locate problems. One of the most important tools in an auto electrician’s toolbox is a voltage meter. This tool can be used to check battery voltage and alternator charging voltage. It can also be used to diagnose problems with ignition systems and electric motors.
Another important tool in an auto electrician’s arsenal is an ohmmeter, which can be used to measure resistance in a circuit. This is a crucial part of understanding automotive electrical circuits, as they are all based on Ohm’s Law. Knowing the relationships between volts, ohms and amps can help you troubleshoot and fix many electrical issues.
Auto electricians also need to have a good understanding of how fuses and relays work. They need to be able to recognize when an fuses has blown and replace it quickly. They also need to understand how the relays work and how they can be bypassed without affecting other components.
Besides working on electrical components, an auto electrician will also fit accessories like car alarms and immobilisers. These can act as a deterrent for thieves and help in locating the vehicle if it is stolen. They can also install parking sensors, dash cams and LCD screens. They can also perform maintenance and safety inspections and tests.
To become an auto electrician, you need to complete a program for automotive service technicians or mechanics, and follow it up with on-the-job training. This can be done through a school-based apprenticeship, or through completing a vocational course at a trade college. Obtaining certification from the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) organization is recommended. This is an industry-standard credential that validates professionalism and trustworthiness.
Brakes
A vehicle’s braking system is one of its most critical components, and the condition of the brake linings and discs, the quality of the brake fluid, and the functioning of the hydraulic system should be regularly checked. A competent auto electrician should be able to diagnose any problems and provide recommendations on how best to resolve them.
A properly functioning braking system is vital to the safety of the car’s driver and passengers, as well as other road users. Regularly checking the condition of the braking system and keeping it in good working order will ensure that it always works efficiently.
Modern cars rely on intricate electrical and computer systems to operate their many features. A skilled auto electrician will be able to inspect and repair these systems, and will have access to the necessary tools and equipment to carry out the work. It is important to only trust a qualified auto electrician to work on your vehicle’s electrical systems as there is a significant risk of damage and injury if the job is done incorrectly.
For example, the braking system of your vehicle is operated by electronic sensors and actuators that respond to commands from the car’s computer. A faulty sensor or actuator can cause the brakes to fail, which could lead to serious injuries and damages to other parts of your car.
An auto electrician will also be able to install and wire an electric brake controller into your tow vehicle. These controllers can be used to control the braking force of your trailer, and are often required by law when towing. An auto electrician can recommend the right electric brake controller for your vehicle and towing setup, and install it in a safe and efficient manner.
Electric brakes are a great addition to any towing vehicle. They allow you to come to a stop quickly, even when hauling a heavy load. They are easy to set up and are a lot safer than manually reversing your vehicle. An experienced auto electrician will be able to advise you on the most suitable electric brakes for your needs and will ensure they are installed correctly and wired properly.