Preparation:
* Turn off the engine and remove the keys from the ignition.
* Wear protective gloves and goggles.
*You will need a multimeter, a screwdriver and a wrench.
Battery check:
1. Set the multimeter to voltage direct current (VDC) mode.
2. Connect the red lead of the multimeter to the positive (+) terminal of the battery and the black lead to the negative (-) terminal.
3. The normal operating voltage of the battery should be in the range of 12.6-12.8 volts. If the voltage is below 12 volts, the battery may be low or faulty.
4. Start the engine and measure the voltage again. It should be above 13 volts when the engine is running.
Generator check:
1. Set the multimeter to AC voltage (VAC) mode.
2. Connect the red lead of the multimeter to the “BAT” terminal of the generator, and the black lead to the vehicle ground (fixed part of the chassis).
3. With the engine running, the voltage at the “BAT” terminal should be about 14 volts. If it is significantly lower, the generator may be faulty.
4. Turn off the engine and turn on the headlights, fan and other electrical appliances. The voltage should remain in the range of 13-14 volts.
Starter check:
1. Make sure the battery jumper wire is securely tightened.
2. Measure the voltage at the starter “S” terminal while someone is trying to start the engine. The voltage must be at least 10 volts.
3. If the voltage is low, check the wiring connecting the starter to the battery and ignition switch.
Checking fuses:
1. Locate the fuse box in your vehicle.
2. Remove the fuses and check if they are blown. Blown fuses will have a broken wire inside.
3. Replace blown fuses with identical ones.
Checking the bulbs:
1. Turn on all headlights, lanterns and other lamps.
2. Check if all lamps are on.
3. If a light bulb does not light, check the fuse for that circuit and the light bulb itself.
Wiring check:
1. Visually inspect the wiring for signs of damage such as breaks, punctures, and corrosion.
2. Use a multimeter to check the continuity of the wires. Connect the red wire to one end of the wire and the black wire to the other. The multimeter should show infinite resistance if the wire is good.
Adviсe:
* Check your car’s electrical system regularly to prevent problems.
*If you find any problems that you cannot repair yourself, contact a qualified mechanic.
* Do not attempt to repair a vehicle’s electrical system unless you have the appropriate knowledge and experience.