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Electrical
System
Your
car's electrical system powers everything from the
ignition and fuel systems to accessories such as your
radio, headlights and wipers. The electrical system
is, in turn, powered by the engine. Here are the three
key components of the electrical system:
 | Battery
When your car's engine is off, the battery
provides the required power to the rest of the
system, as well as during start-up (cranking). It
also supplements the power from the charging
system during periods of high demand. |
| Charging
System
This is the heart of the electrical system. It
consists of three main components: the belt-driven
alternator, various electrical circuits, and a
voltage regulator. The alternator supplies power
to the electrical system and recharges the battery
after your car has started. Just like it sounds,
the voltage regulator controls the voltage,
keeping it within the operating range of the
electrical system. |
| Starting
System
This system consumes more electrical power than
any other in your car. The starting system
consists of three components which work in tandem:
the ignition switch, the starter relay or
solenoid, and the starter motor. The ignition
switch controls the starter solenoid, which
activates the starter motor. The starter motor
then turns the engine until your car starts. |
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707-795-5283
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