Tagelectrical system

Searching for electrical system info? Check out all the electrical system related articles here on the NAPA Know How blog. We’ve got Know How for all!

A car with a third brake light. Some cars have a third brake light, while others don't. Ever wondered why? Here's everything you need to know about a third brake light.

Posted September 2, 2019 Know How

What Is A Third Brake Light For?

There are several laws governing automotive lighting, such as headlights, taillights, fog lights, and stop lamps, but what is a third brake light for?

Car batteries. Your car's battery needs maintenance, too. Here are the bare necessities you need to take care of the battery in your car.

Posted July 9, 2019 Featured

Which Tools For Battery Maintenance Do You Absolutely Need?

Most batteries in today’s vehicles fancy themselves “maintenance free,” but that’s not entirely true. This just means you won’t be concerning yourself with pulling terminals or pouring electrolyte. Actually, these batteries require attention to stay in good shape…

A car's starter. Starters rarely fail, but when they do, it's hard to ignore. Diagnosing a troublesome starter can be tough, but this helpful guide could give you a starting point.

Posted February 21, 2019 Know How

Why Do Good Starters Go Bad?

Starters are an integral part of the starting system, so why do good starters go bad? Here’s an explanation on what could go wrong in your starter.

A car's alternator. Your car's electrical system is compromised of multiple components. Here's how to tell what kind of alternator your car has.

Posted February 19, 2019 Know How

The Different Types of Alternators Explained

Alternators convert mechanical energy into electric energy, but there are different types of alternators on the market. Here’s the lowdown.

An alternator in a car. Here are the benefits to an alternator and an explanation of what the component does.

Posted February 11, 2019 Know How

The Benefits of an Alternator Over a DC Generator

There was a time when DC generators were the go-to choice for creating an electric current, but the benefits of an alternator make it the preferred choice.

An alternator in an engine bay. Replacing your car's alternator doesn't have to be an arduous repair. Following these four steps will ensure you'll be able to replace your car's alternator without much trouble.

Posted February 4, 2019 Know How

4 Alternator Replacement Tips That Will Save You Time and Trouble

Looking for alternator replacement tips? We’ve got four that will make the job quick and easy.

Posted January 10, 2019 Know How

What Is an Alternator? A Practical Guide

What is an alternator? Simply put, it’s a part of your car’s electrical system that you never really have to think about until it starts to cause you grief. Alongside your vehicle’s battery, the alternator is the backbone of the charging system in your automobile…

This 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has a 48-volt electrical system.

Posted October 22, 2018 Know How

Why a 48-Volt Electrical System is Necessary

Today’s vehicles consume more electrical power than a 12-volt system can support. Here’s why automakers are turning to a 48-volt electrical system.

Posted September 26, 2018 Know How

Car Battery Chemistry: A Humble History of the 12 Volt

Car battery chemistry hasn’t always looked how it does now. Automotive batteries have continually evolved since they became commonplace as a tool to assist with starting a vehicle (prior to which, a mechanical hand-crank had been required). These batteries — still known in some circles as start-ignition-lighting batteries due to…

Posted August 30, 2018 Maintenance

What Is an Electronic Control Module?

The electronic control module is an onboard computer responsible for keeping your engine running at its best and alerting you when something is wrong.