A faulty electrical system can be sneaky, so it’s important to know the early indicators of electrical issues. If you see any of these signs, it’s time to get your car to the auto shop.
Signs You May Notice
If your car is having electrical issues, you’ll get a few warning signs. First, you may notice the smell of burning plastic while driving — this is a telltale indicator of electrical problems, and you should bring your car in right away. Another issue you may encounter is your interior lights appearing dimmer, as well as dimmer brake lights, headlights, and turn signals. You could also experience your stereo, power windows, and power locks malfunctioning.
Another classic sign that your vehicle is having electrical issues is problems with your battery. Your battery may not hold a charge, forcing you to jump it every time you need to drive. Your car also may have trouble turning over and getting started, or it may not turn over at all.
Signs Under the Hood
There are other signs of electrical system problems that you can only see if you open things up and take a look. Rust or corrosion on your battery definitely indicates electrical issues, as well as damaged battery cables, blown fuses, and scorched spark plugs. If you see any of these problems under the hood, have your car looked at immediately.
Why Fixing Electrical Issues Matters
Electrical system issues are annoying — no one wants to jump their car every day or deal with their locks and windows having a mind of their own. But some signs are easier to ignore, like the plastic smell or dim lights. These problems may seem like something you can live with, but you shouldn’t. Driving with electrical issues is incredibly dangerous. For instance, other drivers may not be able to see you well if you have dim lights, which can lead to an accident. Or you may find that your battery finally does die, potentially at the most inconvenient moment. The scariest possibility is that you completely lose control of your vehicle due to system failures. Don’t power through signs of electrical problems! Have your car repaired as soon as possible.
Notice any of these issues in your own vehicle? Make an appointment at Pearson Auto today. Our expert technicians will diagnose your problems and repair your car so that you can get back on the road — safely.