Common Electrical System Diagnostic Costs
Battery Testing and Inspection
Typical Duration: 0.5 hours
Expected Cost: $62.50
Includes testing battery voltage, load testing, and checking charging system performance.
Starter System Diagnosis
Typical Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Expected Cost: $125-187.50
Includes testing starter motor function, checking starter relay, and inspecting related wiring.
Alternator Testing
Typical Duration: 1 hour
Expected Cost: $125
Includes checking charging output, belt condition, and testing voltage regulator function.
Check Engine Light Diagnosis
Typical Duration: 1-2 hours
Expected Cost: $125-250
Includes computer diagnostic scanning, trouble code reading, and initial troubleshooting.
Power Window Diagnosis
Typical Duration: 1-1.5 hours
Expected Cost: $125-187.50
Includes testing motors, switches, and wiring inspection.
Central Locking System Diagnosis
Typical Duration: 1-2 hours
Expected Cost: $125-250
Includes testing door locks, key fob programming, and control module diagnosis.
Interior Lighting Issues
Typical Duration: 0.5-1 hour
Expected Cost: $62.50-125
Includes testing fuses, bulbs, and wiring circuits.
Exterior Lighting Diagnosis
Typical Duration: 0.5-1 hour
Expected Cost: $62.50-125
Includes testing headlights, tail lights, turn signals, and related circuits.
Full Electrical System Scan
Typical Duration: 2-3 hours
Expected Cost: $250-375
Comprehensive testing of all major electrical systems and components.
Note: These are diagnostic costs only. Additional charges will apply for necessary repairs and replacement parts. Complex electrical issues may require additional diagnostic time.
Additional Information:
- All diagnostics are performed by certified technicians
- Labor rate: $125/hour
- Prices may vary based on vehicle make and model
- Written estimates provided before any repairs are performed
Common Electrical System Diagnostic Procedures
Battery Testing and Replacement
Steps:
- Visual inspection for corrosion, damage, or loose connections
- Test battery voltage using multimeter
- Perform load test to check battery capacity
- Clean terminals and connections if necessary
- Replace battery if voltage or load test fails
- Verify proper operation after replacement
Starter System Diagnosis
Steps:
- Check battery voltage and connections
- Test starter draw using amp meter
- Inspect starter solenoid function
- Check starter motor operation
- Verify flywheel gear engagement
- Replace starter if necessary
- Test system operation after repair
Alternator Testing
Steps:
- Check belt tension and condition
- Test charging voltage at idle and 2000 RPM
- Perform full-field test
- Check for unusual noise
- Test diode function
- Replace alternator if failed
- Verify charging system operation
Lighting System Diagnosis
Steps:
- Visual inspection of all lights
- Check fuses and relays
- Test voltage at light fixtures
- Inspect wiring for damage
- Check switch operation
- Replace failed components
- Verify proper operation
Power Window Diagnosis
Steps:
- Test window switch operation
- Check fuse condition
- Inspect motor operation
- Test power supply to motor
- Check window regulator mechanism
- Replace failed components
- Test full operation after repair
Short Circuit Detection
Steps:
- Identify affected circuit
- Check fuse box for blown fuses
- Perform voltage drop test
- Inspect wiring harness for damage
- Use circuit tracer to locate short
- Repair or replace damaged wiring
- Verify circuit operation
Computer/Module Testing
Steps:
- Connect diagnostic scanner
- Read trouble codes
- Check module communication
- Test input/output signals
- Verify power and ground circuits
- Replace module if necessary
- Program new module if required
- Clear codes and verify repair
Note: These procedures may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and year. Always consult manufacturer-specific repair procedures for detailed instructions.
Understanding Electrical System Diagnostics
Battery Testing
Battery testing is a comprehensive evaluation of your vehicle's battery health. This diagnostic process measures the battery's voltage output, cold cranking amps, and overall condition. It helps identify if your battery is performing optimally or needs replacement before leaving you stranded.
Starter System Analysis
This diagnostic service examines your vehicle's starting system, including the starter motor and solenoid. Technicians measure voltage drops and current draw to ensure your vehicle starts reliably every time. It can identify worn components before they fail completely.
Alternator Performance Testing
Alternator diagnostics assess your vehicle's charging system performance. Technicians measure the alternator's output at various engine speeds to ensure it's properly charging the battery and supplying power to electrical components. This test helps prevent unexpected electrical system failures.
Computer System Scanning
Modern vehicles rely on multiple computer systems. This diagnostic process involves scanning these systems for error codes and performance data. It helps identify electronic control issues affecting your vehicle's operation and performance.
Wiring and Circuit Testing
This diagnostic service traces electrical circuits throughout your vehicle to identify shorts, opens, or high resistance problems. Technicians use specialized equipment to locate wiring issues that can cause intermittent electrical problems or component failures.
Sensor Function Analysis
Sensors throughout your vehicle provide crucial data to the engine management system. This diagnostic process tests each sensor's operation and accuracy. It ensures your vehicle's computer receives correct information for optimal performance and efficiency.
Lighting System Diagnostics
This service examines all vehicle lighting circuits, including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights. Technicians check for proper operation, voltage levels, and identify any potential safety concerns related to lighting systems.
Power Accessory Testing
Power accessories like windows, locks, and seats are tested for proper operation. This diagnostic process identifies issues with motors, switches, and control modules that operate these convenience features.
Fuse and Relay Analysis
This diagnostic service checks all fuses and relays for proper operation. Technicians verify that these critical components are functioning correctly to protect your vehicle's electrical systems and ensure reliable operation.
Electronic Module Testing
Modern vehicles contain numerous electronic control modules. This diagnostic process tests communication between modules and verifies proper operation. It helps identify module failures that can affect various vehicle systems and functions.
Common Electrical System Failure Symptoms and Warning Signs
Common Electrical System Issues & Maintenance Guide
Battery System
Signs of Failure:
- Slow engine cranking
- Dimming headlights while idling
- Battery warning light illuminated
- Corroded battery terminals
- Swollen battery case
Service Schedule:
- Battery test every 6 months
- Terminal cleaning annually
- Replacement typically every 3-5 years
Alternator
Signs of Failure:
- Battery warning light flickering
- Electrical systems failing while driving
- Burning rubber smell
- Squealing or grinding noises
- Dead battery despite recent replacement
Service Schedule:
- Testing during routine maintenance
- Typically lasts 7-10 years
- No regular maintenance required
Starter Motor
Signs of Failure:
- Clicking sound when turning key
- Grinding noise during starting
- Engine won't crank despite good battery
- Starter staying engaged after engine starts
- Smoke while starting
Service Schedule:
- No regular maintenance required
- Average lifespan 100,000-150,000 miles
- Inspection during major service intervals
Fuses and Relays
Signs of Failure:
- Specific electrical component not working
- Multiple systems failing simultaneously
- Burning smell from fuse box
- Visible damage or melting
Service Schedule:
- Visual inspection during routine maintenance
- Replace as needed
- Clean fuse box annually
Wiring Harness
Signs of Failure:
- Intermittent electrical issues
- Multiple system malfunctions
- Check Engine light with electrical codes
- Visible wire damage or exposure
- Burning smell while operating electronics
Service Schedule:
- Visual inspection during routine maintenance
- Check for rodent damage annually
- Repair or replace as needed
Note: These are general guidelines. Specific maintenance schedules may vary by vehicle make, model, and operating conditions. Always consult your owner's manual for manufacturer-recommended service intervals.
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.
