3 Electrical Problems You Should Always Fix at Your Honda Dealer

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Electrical problems can be a major headache for any driver, as they often appear to be caused by other issues. Fortunately, your Honda dealer is here to help if they arise. Our Honda-trained technicians are experts at quickly diagnosing and repairing them. These are a few examples of problems we can fix for you.

3 Electrical Problems You Should Always Fix at Your Honda Dealer

Weak Battery

The battery has two main functions. Firstly, it provides the initial electrical charge that powers the starter, which starts your engine. Its second function is to supply power to all your car’s systems and devices when the engine is switched off. A battery has an average life of three to five years before it weakens and needs to be replaced. This lifespan can be further reduced by climatic conditions or other issues in the electrical system.
A healthy battery should produce approximately 13.5 volts, but this gradually decreases as it gets older. If a battery supplies 12.5 volts or less, the battery warning light on the dash will illuminate. You’ll also experience delayed starting, dim lights, and other strange electrical behavior. Our technicians will test your battery to confirm the diagnosis, and we can quickly replace it with a new one to fix this problem.

Worn Alternator

The alternator is an electrical generator that supplies all your Honda’s electrical requirements. In addition, it’s responsible for recharging the battery when your engine is running. It spins constantly at high speed to produce this power, which is transmitted to every electrical system via a large network of wires and cables.
As an alternator ages, it begins to slow down. As the alternator slows down, its electricity production drops. This change isn’t immediately noticeable, as an alternator usually produces more power than your Honda requires. The slowdown is irreversible, and various issues like slow accessories, strange smells, and odd noises will appear. We’ll test your alternator, and we’ll replace it if necessary.

Failed Starter Solenoid

The electrical charge from the battery is sent to the starter solenoid. This small device transfers this power to the starter which cranks your engine, allowing the combustion process to begin. This makes the solenoid a crucial component. If it fails, your engine won’t start, and jumpstarting has no effect.

You can identify a starter problem by listening for a tiny click when you hit the start button. This click means the starter is working, but not receiving enough power. If you don’t hear this click, the starter is the cause of the trouble. We can install a new solenoid, and the starter will power up normally.

If you experience any trouble with your car’s electrical system, call us right away at Tony Honda Hilo in Hilo, HI.

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