Ballast Resistor Repair Service Costs
Standard Ballast Resistor Replacement
Typical repair time: 30-45 minutes
Estimated cost: $60-95
Includes basic diagnosis, removal of old resistor, and installation of new unit. Most common for vehicles from the 1960s-1970s.
Electronic Ballast Resistor Replacement
Typical repair time: 45-60 minutes
Estimated cost: $95-125
Includes diagnostic testing, removal of electronic ballast unit, and installation of new component. Common in 1980s vehicles with electronic ignition systems.
Custom Ballast Resistor Repair
Typical repair time: 1-2 hours
Estimated cost: $125-250
Required for specialty or vintage vehicles needing custom fabrication or modification of mounting brackets. Includes thorough system testing and adjustment.
Note: Parts costs are additional and vary by vehicle make/model. All repairs include a final ignition system check to ensure proper operation.
Additional Services:
- Ignition system diagnostic testing: $45
- Wiring harness inspection: $35
- Coil testing: $25
Ballast Resistor Repair Procedures by Type
External Mounted Ballast Resistor
Common in older vehicles (1960s-1970s)
Repair steps:
- Locate the ballast resistor (typically mounted on the firewall or inner fender)
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal
- Remove the wiring connectors from the ballast resistor
- Remove mounting screws/bolts securing the resistor
- Clean the mounting surface
- Install new ballast resistor
- Reconnect wiring in original configuration
- Reconnect battery and test ignition system
Internal Coil-Mounted Ballast Resistor
Found in many 1980s-1990s vehicles
Repair steps:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal
- Locate and remove the ignition coil
- Remove the ballast resistor wire from inside the coil housing
- Install new resistor wire ensuring proper connection
- Reinstall ignition coil
- Reconnect battery terminal
- Test ignition system for proper operation
Resistance Wire Ballast
Common in various vehicles from 1970s-1990s
Repair steps:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal
- Locate the resistance wire (usually in the main wiring harness)
- Carefully remove the wire loom to expose the resistance wire
- Cut and remove damaged section
- Splice in new resistance wire using appropriate connectors
- Wrap with new wire loom
- Secure all connections
- Reconnect battery and verify operation
Electronic Ballast Module
Found in modern vehicles (1990s-present)
Repair steps:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal
- Locate the electronic ballast module (often near ignition coil)
- Unplug all electrical connectors
- Remove mounting hardware
- Install new electronic ballast module
- Reconnect all electrical connections
- Secure mounting hardware
- Reconnect battery and test system
Important Safety Notes:
- Always work with a cool engine
- Ensure proper battery disconnection before starting work
- Use manufacturer-specified replacement parts
- Consult vehicle service manual for specific procedures
- If unsure, seek professional assistance
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary by vehicle make and model. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for detailed instructions.
Understanding Ballast Resistors
Aballast resistoris a specialized electrical component designed to limit or regulate current flow in an electrical circuit. It acts as a protective device that helps maintain stable current levels and prevents damage to sensitive components.
Types of Ballast Resistors and Their Functions
1. Ignition Ballast Resistor
Used in automotive ignition systems, this type of ballast resistor:
- Regulates voltage to the ignition coil
- Protects the ignition points from excessive current
- Helps maintain consistent spark plug performance
- Extends the life of ignition system components
2. Fluorescent Light Ballast Resistor
Found in fluorescent lighting systems, these ballast resistors:
- Control current flow during lamp startup
- Regulate operating current once the lamp is running
- Prevent excessive current that could damage the lamp
- Ensure stable, flicker-free operation
3. LED Ballast Resistor
Used with LED lighting systems, these resistors:
- Limit current flow to protect LEDs from damage
- Help maintain consistent LED brightness
- Extend LED lifespan by preventing overcurrent
- Enable proper voltage drop across LED circuits
4. Industrial Ballast Resistor
Applied in industrial equipment and machinery, these resistors:
- Control motor starting current
- Regulate power in heating elements
- Protect sensitive electronic components
- Maintain stable operation in high-power applications
Note: Proper selection and installation of ballast resistors is crucial for optimal performance and safety of electrical systems. Always consult manufacturer specifications or a qualified technician for guidance.
Common Failure Symptoms of Ballast Resistors: Warning Signs and Diagnostic Indicators
Signs of Ballast Resistor Failure and Maintenance Guide
Electronic Ballast Resistors
Signs of Failure:
- Flickering or inconsistent lighting
- Delayed or failed start-up of lights
- Buzzing or humming sounds
- Visible burning or discoloration
- Complete lighting failure
Service Schedule:
Electronic ballasts typically last 10-15 years under normal conditions. No regular maintenance is required, but annual visual inspection is recommended.
Magnetic Ballast Resistors
Signs of Failure:
- Excessive heat production
- Loud humming noises
- Oil leakage
- Burnt smell
- Dimming or irregular light output
Service Schedule:
Magnetic ballasts should be inspected every 5-7 years. Replace proactively after 15-20 years of service.
Automotive Ballast Resistors
Signs of Failure:
- Engine starting difficulties
- Irregular idle
- Poor engine performance
- Visible damage or corrosion
- Failed emissions tests
Service Schedule:
Inspect during regular tune-ups (every 30,000 miles). Replace if resistance values are out of specification or visible damage is present.
Industrial Ballast Resistors
Signs of Failure:
- Equipment performance issues
- Overheating
- Physical deterioration
- Changes in electrical readings
- System inefficiency
Service Schedule:
Quarterly inspections recommended. Replace based on manufacturer specifications or every 8-10 years, whichever comes first.
Note: These are general guidelines. Specific maintenance schedules may vary based on usage, environment, and manufacturer recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
