Winter is a common time for auto electrical repair in Conway, AR, as colder temperatures and icy conditions often challenge electrical systems. Many of these issues start out as mere annoyances, only to become major inconveniences later. Here are six signs that you may require electrical repair soon:
- Unreliable power windows or doors: Slow adjustments in power seats, power windows that fall or get stuck and power locks that ignore the keyless entry frequently suggest an electrical problem. People will often tolerate these issues for a while, assuming that they are merely older car quirks. Unfortunately, they also arise in newer cars. You can end the uncertainty and guarantee that your windows stay open and your seat remains adjustable by having your auto mechanic check out these shortcomings.
- Difficulty starting: When cars don’t start, or start with difficulty, it is almost always an electrical issue. Depending on how it presents, it can be traced to your battery, starter or alternator. When cars don’t start and interior lights do not work either, the cause is usually your battery. Jumpstart your car and get it to the shop for the needed replacement. If interior lights turn on but the engine refuses to turn over, that indicates an alternator problem. With high-mileage vehicles, the rotating parts within the electrical system also wear out and prevent power generation.
- Battery leaks: If your battery is leaking, that is not a small problem. Failing to address that issue can cause a dangerous situation, as battery acid exposes your car to fire hazards and can burn your skin. It can also lead to further repairs by corroding other parts in your engine. This is a job for a professional, as compromised batteries require special handling, which is not normally feasible for laypeople. You and your car will be safer if you take your car and its leaking battery to a shop immediately.
- Headlights dim: You may notice full power from your headlights right after you start your car, but soon, as you drive down a dark road, you find that they lose power. Headlights dim because the voltage regulator, battery or alternator is failing. Just like your brakes and other life-saving components, repair of your headlights needs to be a priority. Otherwise, you risk losing all headlight power and driving blind.
- Loss of taillights: No matter how many times you replace the bulbs in your taillights, they still burn out eventually. Driving without brake and signal lights can be perilous, and if you lose them frequently, it is likely due to a fuse or corroded wires. If this is not the cause, it could be a more serious electrical system short. While changing bulbs makes a great short term fix, eventually even that will not be enough. Contact your mechanic if changing taillight bulbs has become a part of your routine.
- Odors: A stench like burning plastic is often the precursor to electrical problems. It happens because a short has melted components surrounding the wires. As this is also a fire risk, bring this to the attention of your mechanic immediately.
Riverdale Automotive offers auto electrical repair in Conway, AR. Call us today if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.