Test Electrical Problems with the Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro

Electrical automotive problems and electrical repairs are always a pain to face.  The Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro explains how to troubleshoot common electrical problems with a test light.  Using a test light is easy and can rule out particular issues quicker than digital multi-meter.

The test light circuit test will help you determine if there is voltage.  Checking the fuse is always your first step, but once you know the fuse is good, a circuit tester can be utilized to trace an electrical wiring path to locate your problem. Automotive electrical repairs can be downright scary when you do not know how to safely handle them.  Be sure to follow all directions precisely and if any auto repair makes you feel uncomfortable, electrical or otherwise, never continue on with the repair.  You can always get your automobile to an auto repair shop or trusted mechanic to perform necessary auto repairs safely and with the appropriate knowledge to perform the repair completely and without further damages.

Mechanic Reminder: Always check your test light BEFORE beginning to troubleshoot automotive electrical repairs.  Here is a simple test –ground one end and use your battery to check the light.

A test light type of electrical circuit tester also helps with checking a ground circuit. Before starting I would like to be sure you know the leads for your test light ARE reversible.  This means it does not matter which side you end up attaching to your power source or your ground. 

Use a Test Light to Test for Voltage

You start with a positive power source, such as the battery, and you find a ground.  This ground could be any exposed metal that is bolted to the chassis.  Your test light goes between them and if the ends are properly attached, your light should come on.

To see if a wire has a positive voltage, just attach one end of your test light to a solid ground connection.  Then touch the other end to a wire that you want to test.  If your test light comes on, it is a good circuit. I told you it was simple!

How to Use your Test Light to Test a Ground Circuit

If you know a particular electrical component is receiving power on the positive side, you can also check for a good ground.  Since you already know there is a good positive connection, attach one end to it..  Then touch the other end of the tester to the component’s ground wire.  If the light comes one, you have a good ground.  If it does not come on, try cleaning the contact points. Then you should check the ground wire’s path.  Once you find the issue, ground connections are usually very easy to re-establish.

Automotive electrical repairs can be unnerving, but this tutorial on how to use a test light could help you find the problem.  If you need an honest, reputable mechanic, come to our auto repair shop in Columbia, SC.  Sanford’s Automotive Service offers full-service auto repairs including all types of automotive electrical repairs and all types of automotive repair and maintenance for both foreign and domestic autos.