How the car electrical system works
An automobile electrical system consists of the following main components:
1. Battery:
* Stores electrical energy and supplies it to the power supply system.
2. Generator:
* Converts the mechanical energy of the engine into electrical energy.
* Charges the battery and provides power to the vehicle’s electrical systems.
3. Starter:
* Converts electrical energy into mechanical energy needed to start the engine.
4. Wiring:
* Connects electrical system components and enables the transmission of electrical power.
5. Electrical loads:
*Components that consume electricity such as:
* Headlights
* Sensors
* Electric windows
* Audio system
6. Fuses and relays:
* Protect the electrical system from overloads and short circuits.
* Relays are used for high current control or logic functions.
How a car’s electrical system works:
1. When the ignition is turned on, the battery supplies electricity to the starter.
2. The starter rotates the engine and starts it.
3. The generator begins to supply electricity to the vehicle’s electrical system.
4. Electrical loads use electricity from a generator to operate.
5. Excess electricity is stored in the battery.
Important points:
* The vehicle’s electrical system operates at a constant voltage of 12 V.
* The current value depends on the consumed load.
* The vehicle’s electrical system is a closed loop in which electrical energy circulates continuously.
*Always check your vehicle’s owner’s manual before performing any work on the electrical system.