Electrical system — key components
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:
1
|
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.
|
2
|
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. |
3
|
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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