Struggling to start your Lexus?
There can be many reasons why you might experience difficulties starting your car… ranging from a defective starter motor to a faulty ignition coil. It could also be a sign of an issue with the vehicle’s electrical system. Today’s blog post is about electrical problems common in Lexus models. The post also discusses how addressing such issues promptly can prevent inconvenience and potential safety hazards down the road.
Understanding Your Vehicle’s Electrical System
The electrical system in your Lexus is essentially an assembly of sophisticated components responsible for generating, storing, and distributing electric power. In short… it powers electrical appliances in your vehicle. At the center of this system is the alternator- the component responsible for generating electrical power from the mechanical energy through a process known as electromagnetic induction. The energy generated by the alternator is then stored in the battery to be used by various electrical accessories.
In addition to these key components, a vehicle’s electrical system comprises wires, sensors, fuses, relays, and control modules. These components work together to facilitate the storage and controlled distribution of power among key electric components of the vehicle. A glitch in one of these components can easily contribute to all sorts of issues in a vehicle’s electrical system.
Common Electrical Problems In Lexus
Battery issues
Over time, the battery of your Lexus can malfunction due to factors such as age, poor maintenance, parasitic drain, overcharging/ undercharging, physical damage, manufacturing defects, extreme temperatures, etc. The battery is basically a kind of storage unit… entrusted with the task of storing the electric energy generated by the alternator. If it gives up, you’ll encounter a myriad of drivability issues, including sluggish acceleration.
Faulty wiring
Wires connecting different electrical accessories of your Lexus with the battery can also deteriorate over time due to continual exposure to heat, vibration, and other factors. Damaged wiring can disrupt the flow of electricity- which can contribute to all sorts of inconvenience in your vehicle, including an increased risk of short circuits. Corroded or damaged wiring, if not replaced on time, can also cause important electrical components of your vehicle to malfunction.
Damaged fuse/ relay
Fuses essentially safeguard your vehicle’s electrical circuits from overloads and short circuits. If, for some reason, one of your Lexus’ fuses blows, the flow of electricity to the concerned component will be interrupted. A blown fuse can contribute to power window failure, interior light failure, and an array of other electrical issues in a vehicle. Replacing the defective fuse can restore the proper operation of the affected component.
Identifying Signs Of Electrical Trouble
Dimming or flickering lights
If there is something off with your Lexus’ electrical system, its headlights, tail lights, and warning indicators may appear dim. A weak battery, failing alternator, or poor electrical connections are among the reasons why your vehicle’s lights might struggle to shine as brightly as they should. It is unsafe to drive with dimming or flickering lights.
Difficulty starting
Components responsible for bringing your Lexus engine to life require a steady supply of electricity to perform the task they are assigned. If power supply to those components get obstructed because of a dying battery or a defective wire, the vehicle won’t start- no matter how hard you try. Slow cranking and inability to start can also point to a fault in the starter motor.
Dashboard warning lights
Another common occurrence in vehicles with electrical issues is the flashing of the battery light and other indicators on the dashboard. Don’t take these warning lights for granted. Because, if you do, you might have to deal with a bunch of electrical issues down the road… such as door lock failure, radio malfunction, power window failure, etc.
When To Seek Professional Help
From key safety features to ignition system components… almost all major parts of your Lexus require a steady supply of electricity to operate smoothly and efficiently. For a safe and convenient driving experience, you must ensure the upkeep of your Lexus’ key electrical system parts, such as the battery and alternator. If you notice any of the above-mentioned signs, reach out to the nearest import auto repair shop to get the issue diagnosed.
Contact VIC Auto Collision & Repair Lexus Experts
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* White Lexus SUV image credit goes to: Artistic Operations.
