| |
Battery When your car's engine is off,
the battery provides the required power to the rest of the
system, as well as during start-up (cranking). It also
supplements the power from the charging system during periods
of high demand.
Charging System This is the heart of
the electrical system. It consists of three main components:
the belt-driven alternator, various electrical circuits, and a
voltage regulator. The alternator supplies power to the
electrical system and recharges the battery after your car has
started. Just like it sounds, the voltage regulator controls
the voltage, keeping it within the operating range of the
electrical system.
Starting System This system consumes
more electrical power than any other in your car. The starting
system consists of three components which work in tandem: the
ignition switch, the starter relay or solenoid, and the
starter motor. The ignition switch controls the starter
solenoid, which activates the starter motor. The starter motor
then turns the engine until your car starts. |