Today's car batteries are very reliable, however leaving the lights on only a few hours will quickly discharge them. Even a boot light or an interior light left on over night will flatten a battery. And a car left standing for any month or so will probably discharge its battery just with the current drawn by the alarm.
The engine electrical system consists mainly of the charging and starting systems. These components are covered separately from the body electrical units such as the lights, instruments, etc.
The starting and charging system is of a 12V negative earth type. The belt-driven alternator charged the battery which incorporates a voltage regulator. On starting,the starter motor is of the pre-engaged type incorporating an integral solenoid which moves the drive pinion into engagement with the flywheel/driveplate ring gear before the motor is energized.
An automatic stop-start system is fixed as optional equipment to some models which is a fuel economy device. Started by a control switch, the system automatically switches off the engine if the car is stationary during traffic delays.
Precautions
It is necessary to take extra care when working on the electrical system avoiding damage to semi-conductor units (diodes and transistors) and to avoid the risk of personal injury.a) Before disconnecting any wiring or removing components, always make sure that the ignition is turned off.
b) Disconnect the battery leads before using a mains charger.
c) Don't reverse the battery connections. Components such as the alternator or any other having semi-conductor circuitry might be irreparably damaged.
d) If your engine is being started using jump leads and a slave battery, connect the batteries positive to positive and negative to negative. This also does apply when connecting a battery charger.
e) Never disconnect the battery terminals or alternator multi-plug connector if an engine is running.
f) The battery leads and alternator multiplug should be disconnected before carrying out any electric welding on the car.
g) Never use an ohmmeter of the type incorporating a hand cranked generator for circuit or continuity testing.
h) When carrying out welding operations on the car using electric welding tools, disconnect the battery and alternator.
The following precautions could be taken when using the automatic stop-start system:
a) Do not use the system when the engine temperature is below 55C or, when the ambient temperature is very low as the engine will take longer to warm up
b) Do not allow the car to roll when the engine is switched off, check that the handbrake is fully applied
c) During extended delays, switch the engine off in the normal manner with the ignition key as electrical accessories will otherwise be left on and the battery run down
d) If leaving the car for any length of time, switch off the system and always take the ignition key with you
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