Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Main Relay (Computer/Fuel System)

The engine computer in your vehicle is a very vital piece of equipment. Without this part of your car running the right way, it will be nearly impossible for you to operate the vehicle as intended. In order for this part of the vehicle to operate correctly, it will need the power that the main relay supplies. The main relay helps to ensure that the engine computer gets the power that it needs to run and function as intended.

The main relay is usually located underneath the hood in the relay box. The high heat that this relay is exposed to can create a lot of damage over time. When the main relay begins to malfunction, you will have to find a way to address the issues in a hurry. Failure to act quickly in a situation like this can lead to a lot of instability.

The engine will not start

Most car owners take their engine for granted until there is an issue with it. If the engine will not crank, then you will need to get the main relay checked out. If the main relay is not supplying the engine computer with the power it needs, then the engine will not be able to crank and run the right way. Failing to get the main relay replaced will usually lead to the car being unusable.

The car can’t stay running for long periods of time

If the car cranks and then dies almost immediately after, then the main relay may be to blame. The only way to ensure that this problem stops is by taking the time to get the relay tested and replaced if needed. Having a car that cuts off all of the time can be very frustrating and dangerous in certain situations. Replacing the main relay is the only way to regain the consistency that your vehicle has lost.

The Check Engine Light is on

When the Check Engine Light on your car comes on, then you will need to take the time to have it looked at. The best way to find out why the light is on is by going in to a shop that has diagnostic equipment. They will be able to pinpoint what issues are causing the Check Engine Light to come.


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Chris

23 years of experience
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Chris
23 years of experience
Dodge Ram 2500 L6-5.9L Turbo Diesel - Vehicle Engine Electrical - Perris, California
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Chrysler 300 - Coolant is leaking - Wildomar, California
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34 years of experience
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Johnny
34 years of experience
Mitsubishi Endeavor V6-3.8L - Vehicle Engine Electrical Inspection - Carmichael, California
Friendly and thorough service! Didn't take him long to determine my issue wasn't electrical but lack of compression. He was able to identify my issue rather quickly and saved me the hassle of having to have my vehicle towed to a service shop.

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31 years of experience
1039 reviews
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31 years of experience
GMC Terrain L4-2.4L - Vehicle Engine Electrical - Windermere, Florida
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Volkswagen Rabbit L5-2.5L - Vehicle Engine Electrical - Grand Prairie, Texas
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