3
Automobiles and light trucks are now as much “elec-
tronic” as they are “mechanical.” Look under the hood
of any late-model car and you will fi nd a maze of wires
connecting dozens of devices. In fact, electronics can be
found in almost every major system of a car, including the
suspension, transmission, fuel, ignition, emission control,
and braking systems. Some cars have four or fi ve separate
on-board computers.
The day of the “backyard mechanic” is over; this is
the era of the well-trained electronic technician. Con-
ventional electrical systems, when combined with newer
computer-controlled systems, make it necessary to have
a sound background in electricity and electronics. This
knowledge will allow you to do competent repair work.
Anyone versed in auto electronics will have no problem
finding and keeping a good job in the automotive ser-
vice industry.
Auto Electricity and Electronics was designed to
make the complex seem simple. Short sentences, abundant
illustrations, and easy-to-follow procedures are used to
make learning easier and more fun. All technical terms are
printed in bold italic and clearly defi ned so that you can
quickly learn the “language” of the automotive electronic
technician. There are three types of special notes you will
encounter in this book:
Note: A note may highlight important
technical information, present information
related to the topic, or cross-reference
the material.
Caution: A caution identifi es a situation
that may result in damage to the vehicle,
tools, or equipment if the proper procedure
is not followed.
Warning: A warning identifi es operations
that may potentially result in injury.
The text is divided into 36 chapters that are grouped
into four sections. The fi rst section reviews fundamentals:
electrical principles and components, electronic compo-
nents, wiring repairs, soldering, wiring diagrams, special
tools and equipment, basic electrical tests, and safety. The
second section summarizes the construction and operation
of major electrical/electronic systems. The third section
explains how to diagnose and repair these electrical/elec-
tronic systems. The last section contains ASE and career
information, useful tables, a glossary, and index.
Each chapter starts with Learning Objectives so you
know what you are expected to learn in the chapter. Tech-
nical Terms are also given so you can make sure you grasp
new technical words. A Summary at the end of each chap-
ter allows you to quickly review the most important topics.
A good mix of Review Questions allows you to determine
how well you understand the material in the chapters. A
separate section of ASE Certifi cation-Type Questions is pre-
sented at the end of each chapter to help you prepare for
the types of questions that will be encountered on the ASE
Certifi cation Tests.
Introduction