You may not think of your vehicles’ electric systems very often, but they are essential to your vehicles’ operation. Did you know that 25% of general repairs that come through a shop involve electrical systems? Mechanics commonly see issues with starters, alternators, batteries, and wiring.
Maintenance is vital, but we don’t want to do more maintenance than necessary, taking vehicles out of operation more often than needed. How can you detect problems with your vehicles’ electrical systems and avoid unnecessary maintenance? Below, we’ll explore some ways to tell your fleet vehicle’s electrical system is in trouble and a simple way to stay on top of electrical system woes in your fleet.
Five Signs Your Electrical System is Failing
Your vehicles’ electrical systems are complicated, but we can simplify your worries with five clear signs that you may have an electrical problem.
- The engine won’t crank properly. When you turn the ignition switch in your truck, the battery provides a spark through a spark plug, igniting the fuel in your engine. If part of this system fails, your engine won’t crank properly. Often, this issue is due to a bad battery or alternator.
- You’re having battery problems. Whenever you’re having battery issues, you shouldn’t replace the battery without inspecting your car’s electrical systems. Your car battery should last about five years, or possibly less in hot climates. If your battery isn’t lasting as long as it should, there could be a couple of issues. First, check your battery cables for corrosion. If the battery is not at fault, your alternator may have a problem. Fixing the alternator will prevent having to replace the battery repeatedly in the future.
- Lights not working properly. Headlights, brake lights, and turn signals must function properly for you to use your vehicles safely. If you notice your lights dimming, you could be facing a dying battery, loose wires, or an alternator belt that isn’t functioning properly.
- Fuses keep blowing out: Sometimes, a fuse blows for no real reason. However, it can be a sign of an electrical problem. If you have to replace fuses more often than expected, you may be dealing with an electrical fault or short circuit.
- Burning plastic smell: If any of the problems above are accompanied by the smell of burning plastic or electrical insulation, stop driving the car and take it in for repairs immediately.
Azuga’s Maintenance Alerts
If you’re operating a fleet, you have many vehicles to keep track of and little time to waste. Azuga’s fleet management software with maintenance alerts automates the maintenance process, helping you streamline your repairs and keep your vehicles on the road. Don’t let electrical problems get ahead of you by taking your fleet vehicles in for regular scheduled maintenance. See how Azuga can help you reduce maintenance-related downtime and vehicle breakdowns by scheduling a demo with one of our experts today!
