Battery/Starting/Charging Systems

Today’s vehicles are a complex maze of interwoven electrical systems. All electrical systems, however, must have a continuous and steady source of energy.

Battery
Component/System information:

• Provides all electrical energy necessary to start the vehicle
• Provides reserve electrical power under heavy electrical loads

Symptoms of a malfunctioning battery:

• No crank condition
• Slow cranking condition (may also happen during abrupt weather changes)
• Poor electrical accessory operation at low speeds

Battery Cables/Terminals
Component/System information:

• Provides the electrical paths necessary to transfer battery power to all automotive electrical systems

Symptoms of a malfunctioning battery cable/terminal:

• No crank condition
• Slow cranking condition
• Poor electrical accessory operation at low speeds
• Driveability problems

Starter
Component/System information:

• An electric motor, which turns the crankshaft flywheel allowing the vehicle to start

Symptoms of a malfunctioning battery cable/terminal:

• No crank condition
• Slow cranking condition

Alternator/Generator
Component/System information:

• Provides the electrical needs of the vehicle while it is running
• Keeps battery properly charged

Symptoms of a malfunctioning alternator/generator:

• Slow cranking condition after vehicles has been in operation
• Vehicle’s charge light remains on while in operation
• Stalled or ‘dead’ engine
• Poor electrical accessory (lights, wipers, etc) operation at low speeds

Benefits of a Properly Maintained Electrical System

• Quick starting
• Increased starter life
• Allows for proper alternator/generator operation
• Proper electrical accessory operation
• Longer battery life
• Longer battery cable/terminal life