What’s the function of Battery Cables?
Battery cables transfer the current from the battery to other electrical components (starter, alternator, fuse block). Without battery cables, there will be no electrical power in any part of your car. The cables are located under the hood and are attached to the battery on one end and the engine and electrical accessories on the other. All cars have multiple cables. These cables can become corroded and cause bad connections, which will not allow the right amount of current to be transferred to the electrical components in the car.
Remember:
In most cases, battery cables cannot be repaired and must be replaced as an assembly. But in some cases, it may be able to cut the corroded part of the cable and install a terminal end. By doing this, you can avoid replacing the cable assembly.
Best Practice:
Corrosion is the battery cable’s worst enemy. If you open the hood of your car, you may find a white or bluish powdery substance (dried acid) on the battery and cables. This acidic substance will corrode the battery terminal ends and the battery cable. It is a good practice to have the battery and cables checked and cleaned at regular intervals (we recommend every other oil change). This will prevent the corrosion from building up and it will extend the life of the battery cables.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Battery Cable?
- Car does not start.
- Clicking noise when starting the car.
- Electrical components (e.g. lights, radio, horn) may not work.
Impact if not taken care of:
Battery cables transfer current from the battery to the electrical components of the vehicle. Without functioning battery cables, the battery has no way of outputting energy. The alternator and starter rely on battery cables for power, so malfunctioning cables mean that your vehicle won’t start up or have any electrical energy.