Electrical System The automotive electrical system consists of wires, lights, motors, circuits, fuses, relays, and switches. Even though the electrical system is extremely complex, there are still many repairs that you can do without taking your vehicle to a service facility. A simple thing like a headlight burning out can stop you from driving safely down the road. The starting system converts chemical energy (molecular energy) to electrical energy (electrons moving through a conductor) to mechanical energy (energy of motion). The starting system basically consists of five components: Battery, Ignition Switch, Solenoid, Starter, and Park/Neutral Safety Switch. The charging system is somewhat a reverse of the starting system. The charging system converts mechanical energy to electrical energy to chemical energy. The charging system keeps the battery charged and provides power for a vehicle’s electrical accessories. The main components of the charging system are: Battery, Drive Belt, Alternator, Voltage Regulator, and Powertrain Control Module. Please use the links below to view charging, lighting, and starting system videos.
|