Your Subaru has an electrical system that comprises a range of components including battery, starting system and alternator, among others. There are also dozens of sensors and embedded special-purpose computers that gather and send information about the overall condition of your Subaru. Needless to say, when one of these components fails, you may begin to experience different issues with your Subaru. Electrical problems are not as common as mechanical issues, but they often are more difficult to pinpoint, so it takes an experienced mechanic to diagnose and repair electrical problems.
Signs your Subaru may have electrical issues
While identifying the cause of an electrical fault might require technical expertise, there are a few symptoms that tell you it’s time to get professional help for your Subaru:
- Engine might struggle to crank
Starting your Subaru requires a significant amount of electrical power, which is supplied by the battery. If you’re finding it hard to crank the engine, it could be a sign of a fault in your vehicle’s electrical system. You may hear a clicking sound when you turn your key and nothing else happens. This often means the current flow isn’t enough to start the engine.
Car battery is one of the main components of the electrical system as it powers the appliances and accessories in your Subaru. If anything goes wrong with it, the system may not work properly. Your mechanic should inspect the battery and perform a charging test before ordering a replacement.
Your Subaru has both interior and exterior lights. If any of these lights start to dim, it’s time to take in your Subaru for an electrical systems diagnostic and repair service.
The fuse box houses the fuses that are designed to prevent short circuits and overvoltage, thus protecting vulnerable electrical systems from getting excessive currents. An occasional blown fuse is perfectly normal. However, frequent cases of blown fuses might just be your vehicle’s way of telling you that something is wrong with the electrical system.
If you notice a burning smell in your vehicle, turn off the engine and call your trusted local mechanic.
Electrical problems can be difficult to diagnose, but they should not be ignored, because your Subaru depends on the flow of information from the sensors and correct interpretation of that information. It also needs a steady flow of high voltage electricity to power the spark plug that make the engine run. So if you notice any symptoms that something might be wrong with the electrical system, call Adams Autoworx in Castro Valley – we use cutting-edge digital diagnostic equipment to pinpoint and solve electrical problems.
All repairs performed at our Castro Valley auto care facility are backed by our nationwide 36 months / 36,000 mile warranty. Call today to make an appointment.