Wiring diagrams sometimes called wire schematics, are used to show how circuits are constructed.
A typical service manual contains dozens of schematics that are vital to the diagnosis and repair of that particular vehicle.
On this page is a how to video that explains how to find wiring diagrams for your vehicle. But more importantly tips on how to use them to solve any electrical car problem!
This video is good stuff and worth the 4 minutes. I share with you the method I use that is fast, efficient and often locates the problem on the first step. But first let me tell you what a wiring diagram will not do.
Automotive wire diagrams do not show the actual position of the parts on the vehicle or their physical appearance. A standard wire diagram also does not indicate the length of the conductor that runs between the particular components shown.
There are electrical symbols posted that will indicate the color of the wire, its size and other details about that particular circuit.
As far as the color of the wire, this symbol will use the first letter to indicate its base color, and the second letter to indicate the stripe color.
An example would be the letters OB. This would be an orange colored wire with a black tracer stripe.
Standard automotive diagrams
Wire repair diagrams can become quite complex. To avoid this, most troubleshooting manuals will illustrate only one distinct system or circuit at a time.
Example: a horn circuit, or a turn signal circuit will each have a separate distinct electrical diagram.
Keep in mind that electrical symbols are not always standardized throughout the automotive industry.
Different manufacturers may have different methods of representing certain components, particularly the less common ones.
Always refer to the symbol reference charts provided. These are listed in the beginning of the electrical section in most auto repair manuals.
How to use troubleshooting manuals
In this next video I am going to show you how my electrical instructor, way back in 1984, taught me. I am sure that other auto repair mechanics may have learned a different method.
What is more important is to use a standardized procedure and follow it religiously during each electric diagnosis you perform. Sticking to an individual routine will help you repair and diagnose circuits much faster.
Give this car electrical repair resource page a Come back and watch the video again!
Find 3 more instructional videos about how to use online auto service manuals to fix cars right the first time. This next link takes you to my page all about online
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Do you require one on one help with your particular car electrical problems? On this website auto repair help is always available for you.
Testing individual electronic components is not only a valuable skill but a big part of fixing electrical problems on cars. In my electrical training classes we sat down with bread boards and learned how to diagnose and repair individual components.
This e-book covers testing and replacement of Resistors, Capacitors, LED, regular and Zener Diodes, Bridge Rectifiers, Coils, Switches, Relays, Transformers and Voltage Regulators. Although this book is not written for car mechanics every single one of these parts can be found in almost any automobile.
Understanding how they work can make a big difference in diagnostic time. The book is written for beginners, hobbyist, technical college or university students. Also for those who have an interest in electronics or even seasoned professionals looking to sharpen their skills can benefit from reading through it.
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