For most car owners, daily driving often focuses on "major components" like engine performance and braking efficiency, while maintenance of the car's electrical system is frequently overlooked. However, these seemingly insignificant electrical parts should not be underestimated—if they malfunction due to poor maintenance, it will not only affect your daily driving experience but also trigger chain problems and increase repair costs. Today, we have specially invited senior engineers from BDELI to share their years of industry experience, highlighting 4 common maintenance mistakes regarding car electrical systems. This practical knowledge will help you avoid the trouble of "small issues turning into major breakdowns."
Mistake 1: Never Checking the Tension of the Alternator Belt, Unaware of Bearing Wear
The alternator is the "energy heart" of a car's electrical system, responsible for charging the battery and powering all electrical components in the vehicle. The belt, on the other hand, is the key drive part connecting the alternator to the engine. Many car owners believe that as long as the belt doesn't break, it doesn't need attention. Little do they know that improper tension can quietly "damage" the bearings.
Symptom of the Problem
When the alternator belt is too loose, it will slip. This not only reduces the alternator's power output (causing the battery warning light on the dashboard to illuminate) but also creates abnormal friction between the belt and pulleys, producing a high-pitched "squealing" noise. If the belt is too tight, it exerts excessive pressure on the alternator bearings. Over time, this accelerates bearing wear; in severe cases, the bearings may seize, rendering the alternator inoperable. It could even lead to belt breakage, causing sudden power loss while driving—a significant safety hazard.
Inspection Method
Checking belt tension is actually simple and requires no professional tools—car owners can do it themselves. BDELI engineers recommend this practical tip: Turn off the engine and let the vehicle cool down. Gently press the middle of the belt (usually the midpoint between two pulleys) with your finger. Under normal conditions, the belt should deflect 5-10 millimeters. If the belt feels extremely stiff and deflects less than 5 millimeters, it is too tight. If the belt deflects more than 10 millimeters when pressed (or even wobbles easily), it is too loose.
Solution
If the belt tension is incorrect, it is advisable to have it adjusted at a professional auto repair shop. Technicians will adjust the alternator's mounting bolts to change the distance between the alternator and engine, thereby correcting the belt tension. Additionally, during daily inspections, car owners should check for cracks, aging, or severe wear on the belt surface. Even if the tension is correct, a visibly damaged belt must be replaced promptly to prevent breakage-related failures. BDELI engineers also remind that belt specifications and tension requirements may vary slightly by vehicle model—always choose replacement parts that meet the original manufacturer's standards.
Mistake 2: Not Cleaning Dust from Window Tracks, Accelerating Regulator Wear
Smooth window operation relies on the window regulator, and the window track serves as the "guide rail" for the window glass. Many car owners focus only on cleaning the car's exterior during washing, but rarely pay attention to dust and debris in the window tracks. Over time, this dirt becomes a "hidden killer" for the window regulator.
Symptom of the Problem
When window tracks accumulate excessive dust, sand, or leaf debris, it increases resistance during window operation. Car owners will notice that the window rises or falls more slowly, or even gets stuck/paused. A "clunking" noise may also accompany the movement. If left uncleaned, the debris continuously rubs against the glass and track inner walls, while also causing extra wear to the regulator's steel cables and motor. This significantly shortens the regulator's lifespan; in severe cases, the regulator may fail completely, leaving the window inoperable. Replacing the entire regulator assembly can be costly.
Inspection Method
Checking for dirty window tracks is straightforward. In well-lit conditions, carefully inspect the inside of the tracks for visible dust, sand, or debris. Alternatively, lower the window fully and run your finger along the track's inner wall—if you feel rough 颗粒感 (grittiness), cleaning is needed. Additionally, if the window operates sluggishly or makes noise during daily use, dirty tracks are likely the cause.
Solution
Cleaning window tracks requires no complex tools. BDELI engineers suggest using cotton swabs and neutral cleaner (common household items). First, raise the window fully and use a dry cotton swab to wipe away surface dust and debris from the track gaps. For stubborn dirt, dampen a cotton swab with a small amount of neutral cleaner (e.g., diluted dish soap) and gently wipe the track's inner wall. Avoid harsh, corrosive cleaners, as they can damage the track's rubber seals. After cleaning, use a dry cotton swab to remove any remaining cleaner residue. Finally, spray a small amount of window lubricant (available at auto parts stores) into the tracks—this reduces friction between the glass and track, ensuring smoother operation while protecting the rubber seals. It is recommended to clean window tracks every 2-3 months, with more frequent cleaning during dusty or leafy seasons.
Mistake 3: Frequent Starter Freewheeling, Shortening Motor Lifespan
The starter is critical for starting the engine. When the key is turned or the start button is pressed, the starter's small gear engages with the engine flywheel's ring gear, rotating the flywheel to start the engine. However, many car owners cause frequent starter freewheeling due to improper operation—unaware that this severely damages the starter motor.
Symptom of the Problem
Starter freewheeling is most noticeable when pressing the start button: you hear the starter "hum" but the engine shows no signs of starting (commonly described as "spinning but not cranking"). Occasional freewheeling may not cause immediate damage, but frequent occurrences lead to excessive wear and overheating of the starter's small gear and motor windings. Over time, the starter will struggle to crank the engine (taking longer to start); in severe cases, the motor may burn out, leaving the engine unable to start—requiring a full starter replacement.
Inspection Method
Car owners can identify starter freewheeling by listening to sounds and observing the dashboard during startup. Normal startup produces a "click" (indicating the starter engaging with the engine) followed by smooth engine ignition. If you only hear the starter spinning (with no engine cranking) or a "slipping" sound, the starter is freewheeling. Needing multiple presses of the start button to successfully start the engine is also an early sign of freewheeling and requires prompt inspection.
Solution
Avoiding frequent starter freewheeling starts with proper startup technique. BDELI engineers advise: When starting the engine, do not hold the start button for too long. Normally, the engine should start within 3-5 seconds. If it fails to start after 5 seconds, release the button immediately and wait 10-15 seconds before trying again—this prevents starter overheating from prolonged operation. Additionally, ensure the vehicle is in neutral (manual transmission) or Park (automatic transmission) before starting. Never start the engine with high-power electrical components (e.g., air conditioning, headlights) turned on, as this increases the starter's load. If freewheeling occurs regularly, it may indicate worn starter gears or a faulty solenoid. Consult a professional repair shop for inspection; replace damaged starter components or the entire unit if necessary.
Mistake 4: Ignoring Battery Terminal Cleaning, Causing Poor Electrical Contact
The car battery is the "power station" for all electrical components, and the battery terminals are the key connection points between the battery and electrical system. Many car owners only check if the battery has enough charge, but overlook terminal cleaning. Oxidation on the terminals impairs electrical contact, triggering a range of electrical faults.
Symptom of the Problem
Excessive oxidation on battery terminals (usually white or green powdery deposits) increases electrical resistance between the terminals and cables, disrupting current flow. The most common symptoms include weak starter cranking (making engine startup difficult), dim dashboard lights (e.g., headlights, turn signals), and unstable audio volume. If oxidation is left unchecked, it further corrodes the terminals and cable connectors, leading to complete loss of electrical contact—preventing the vehicle from starting. In extreme cases, poor contact may generate sparks, damaging the battery terminals or causing electrical system failures.
Inspection Method
Checking for dirty battery terminals is simple: Open the hood and locate the battery (typically on one side of the engine bay, with clear positive/negative markings). Inspect the terminals for white or green oxidation. Gently wiggle the battery cable connectors—if they feel loose or cause dashboard lights to flicker, poor terminal contact is likely and requires further inspection/cleaning.
Solution
Before cleaning, ensure the engine is off and the key is removed to avoid electric shock. BDELI engineers recommend using a baking soda solution and wire brush: Dissolve a small amount of baking soda in water. Dip a cotton swab in the solution and gently apply it to the oxidized terminals; wait 1-2 minutes to allow the solution to react with the oxidation. Use a dedicated battery terminal wire brush (available at auto parts stores; fine sandpaper can be used as a substitute) to gently scrub the terminals and cable connectors, removing all oxidation. After cleaning, dry the terminals and connectors with a clean towel. Finally, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or dedicated battery terminal protector to the terminals—this prevents future oxidation and maintains good electrical contact. It is recommended to inspect battery terminals every 3-6 months, with extra attention during humid or hot seasons.
Good Maintenance Extends Component Lifespan—BDELI Products Protect Your Driving Safety by Design
While car electrical system maintenance may seem trivial, every detail impacts the vehicle's reliable operation and lifespan. As BDELI senior engineers note, many electrical failures stem from overlooked daily maintenance—allowing "small issues" to escalate into "major breakdowns." Proper routine maintenance not only reduces repair costs but also keeps the vehicle in optimal condition, ensuring driving safety.
As a brand specializing in automotive electrical components, BDELI prioritizes owners' daily maintenance needs and component durability from the initial product design stage. Whether optimizing the alternator's pulley design, selecting high-quality materials for window regulator steel cables, or refining starter motor winding craftsmanship, BDELI always adheres to the principles of "easy maintenance and wear resistance." By improving product structures and using premium materials, BDELI reduces maintenance effort for owners and extends component lifespans. For example, BDELI alternators feature wear-resistant bearings and high-strength belts, reducing maintenance frequency. BDELI window regulators use corrosion-resistant steel cables and smooth guide rails—minimizing wear even if window tracks are occasionally neglected.
For car owners, choosing reliable, low-maintenance electrical components eliminates frequent repair hassles and simplifies daily driving. BDELI remains committed to centering on user needs, leveraging professional technology and thoughtful design to provide high-quality automotive electrical solutions—allowing every car owner to experience the brand's warmth and trustworthiness.