Honda Service Essentials: Electrical Service

The Honda brand has many hybrid cars that rely on electric motors. But even a vehicle like the Honda Pilot is "electric" in the sense that it requires electricity to operate many key systems. For this reason, maintaining the electrical system at a Honda service center like the one at Gillman Honda Houston is vital.

Components of a Car's Electrical System

Every Honda vehicle has many electrical components, including fuses, wiring, relays, and Honda parts like the ECU, infotainment system, and Honda Sensing® safety suite that rely on electricity. However, three parts are more important than the rest: 

• The battery stores electricity for the starter, and helps to regulate output
• The starter gets the engine moving
• The alternator uses the engine's motion to generate electricity, which in turn charges the battery and powers the many systems that need electricity to work

Signs Your Car Has an Electrical Issue

Electrical problems can manifest in many different ways:

• You hear a grinding or scraping noise when you turn the key
• The vehicle takes a few tries to start, or won't start at all
• Headlights and interior lights seem dimmer than usual
• You notice flickering or power drop-outs to electrical systems
• Your power windows, AC, or other systems won't work
• You smell burning wires or insulation

Maintaining Your Car's Electrical System

Electrical issues aren't inevitable as long as you're diligent about maintenance: 

• Your car battery should be changed every five yearsor so
• Your battery should also be maintained with cleanings and occasional supplemental charges
• You should have your electrical system inspected for condition and proper output (you can do this any time you visit for maintenance or repairs)
• You should insist on maintenance by qualified technicians using OEM Honda parts
• You should notignore the trouble signs listed above, or any others you might notice 

Honda Maintenance in Houston

For decades, Honda vehicles have forged a reputation for reliability. Making sure yours lives up to that reputation means getting the maintenance it needs, when it needs it. Your owner's manual and your Honda dealer serving Houston will help keep you on track, and we'll also help with Honda parts and service specials that help with everything from oil changes to brake service. Stop by today. We'll take good care of you and your car!