Prevention and maintenance of car electronic systems: tips from an auto electrician

Modern cars are literally stuffed with electronics. It controls the engine, is responsible for the comfort in the cabin, and helps the driver on the road. But any system malfunctions from time to time, and the more complex it is, the more likely something will go wrong. How to avoid unexpected problems with car electrical systems? We share tips.

Why is it important to monitor the electronics in your car?

Electronics are the nervous system of a car. They control ignition, power, lighting, and safety systems. If something goes wrong, the consequences can be varied: from excessive fuel consumption to a sudden engine stop on the highway. Regular maintenance will help:

avoid expensive repairs;
prevent problems on the road;
extend the life of electronic components.

What should be checked regularly in car electrical systems?

Battery

The battery is the heart of the entire electrical system. If it is weak or worn out, the car may not start at the most inconvenient moment. What should you be concerned about?

The engine starts after one attempt or the starter is slow to turn.
The headlights dim when starting.
A white coating appears on the terminals.

Check the charge at least once every six months, and more often if the battery is older than 3 years.

Generator

The alternator charges the battery and powers the electrical systems while you’re driving. If it’s not working properly, the battery may die, even if it seems new. Signs of problems:

The red battery light on the instrument panel does not go out.
The headlights change brightness at idle.
You hear a whistling or humming sound from under the hood.

At the first suspicions, it is better to make a diagnosis.

Sensors

A modern car is full of sensors: they monitor fuel delivery, exhaust, engine temperature, tire pressure. If one of them goes “crazy,” the car can start to stall, consume more fuel, or run erratically.

How to understand that there is a problem with the electronics?

Here are some warning signs:

The car stalls while driving or starts after the second or third time.
Incomprehensible errors appeared on the instrument panel.
Headlights, power windows, and backlighting work erratically.
The car started consuming more fuel.

If you notice anything from this list, don’t delay with diagnostics.

What do auto electricians recommend to extend the life of electronics?

To avoid getting into trouble due to a sudden electrical system failure:

Check the battery and generator at least once every six months.
Clean the contacts, especially in winter.
Don’t overload the on-board network – not all cars can handle a video recorder, a refrigerator, and a sound amplifier at the same time.
Do computer diagnostics, even if everything seems fine.