Electrical problems can have many different causes. Damaged wiring, worn components, and blown fuses are just some of the issues that can develop over time. All these issues can be prevented by regular servicing, as our technicians can identify potential issues and repair them. As your Mazda dealer, we’d like you to know some signs that you need to visit us for an electrical system service.
Blown Fuses
Every electrical system in your Mazda has a fuse. The fuses act as gatekeepers between the component and the electrical system. If an electrical short develops, current will flow through the system in unexpected directions. This can result in a larger-than-expected electrical charge reaching a component like the sound system.
In this situation, the fuse attached to the sound system will absorb the rogue electrical charge and blow out. This prevents the current from damaging the sound system but cuts off its power supply until the fuse is replaced. We’ll examine your fuses and replace any blown ones to fix this issue.
Damaged Wiring
Your Mazda has more than a mile of wiring inside which connects almost every component to the electrical system. The wiring is covered in plastic and rubber insulation to protect it against heat, dirt, and grease. Despite this protection, the wiring will still age. The continual flow of electricity through the wiring can eventually weaken it enough to break.
A broken wire will cut off power to the system it connects to, but electricity will continue to flow into the wire. This causes the broken wire to heat up, and it can get hot enough to set its protective insulation on fire. Burning insulation produces a foul, burning plastic smell. Our technicians will test your wiring and replace any damaged sections.
Worn Alternator
The alternator’s job is to produce electricity for your Mazda’s systems. It does this by spinning at high speed to produce electricity, which is then supplied to all the systems that need it. It is a very efficient and robust component and will continue to produce power for at least eight years. As the alternator ages, it will slowly enter a downward spiral as the level of electricity it produces starts to fall.
The drop in the electricity supply isn’t immediately apparent, but it will become noticeable as random electrical issues will appear. The battery warning light on your dash will illuminate to warn that something is wrong in the electrical system. We’ll test your alternator and install a new one if required.
If you’re experiencing any electrical issues, contact the experts today at Flood Mazda in Wakefield, RI.
Image via Mazda
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