Battery
What voltage should a fully charged battery read?
12.6v
What is the primary job of the alternator?
To charge the battery and power the electrical systems while the engine is running.
What is the main function of the starter motor?
To crank the engine so it can start.
Which tool do we use to read fault codes from a vehicle?
A scan tool.
What unit is used to measure voltage?
Volts (v)
What chemical reaction produces electricity in a lead-acid battery?
A reaction between lead plates and sulfuric acid.
What happens to the battery if the alternator stops charging while the engine is running?
The battery will slowly drain and the vehicle will eventually stall.
What component supplies power to the starter?
The battery.
Why would a technician use a wiring diagram during diagnosis?
To trace circuits, locate components, and identify potential faults.
What does a fuse protect in a circuit?
The circuit from excessive current and possible damage.
why should the negative battery terminal be disconnected first?
To prevent accidental short circuits.
What dashboard light often indicates a charging system problem?
The battery or charging system warning light.
How can a bad or corroded ground affect the starter operation?
It increases resistance and limits current flow.
What system monitors sensors and controls engine performance?
The ECM or PCM.
What happens to current when resistance increases?
Current decreases.
What happens to battery performance in cold weather?
Capacity is reduced and cranking power decreases.
What symptoms may indicate an alternator is overcharging?
Bright lights, blown fuses, high voltage readings.
What is one common reason a starter may spin but not engage the engine?
A faulty solenoid or worn teeth on either starter or flex plate.
What does a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicate?
A fault or abnormal condition in a system.
What tool do we commonly used to measure voltage, resistance, and amperage?
A digital multimeter.
What is a parasitic draw?
What type of current does an alternator produce internally?
Alternating current.
What component sends power from the battery to the starter motor when the key is turned?
The starter solenoid.
What does OBD stand for?
On-Board Diagnostics.
What is the difference between a series circuit and a parallel circuit?
A series circuit has one path of current, while a parallel circuit has multiple current paths.