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A circuit breaker works similarly to a fuse by breaking the path for a circuit when the maximum amount of current has gone through. The breaker is designed to protect wiring on automobiles and to prevent damage to components including power steering, headlights, windshield wipers and power windows.
The thermal circuit breaker is the most common type. The current flows from the battery terminal to the other terminal by way of a bi-metal strip. This strip will bend upward and snap when the predetermined current level has been reached. It will only allow either a steady current flow or none at all. When the strip snaps, it disconnects the circuit breaker to prevent more current from flowing through. Magnetic circuit breakers allow current to flow through an electromagnetic actuator. When it trips the breaker, the flow is stopped because the electromagnetic force pries the contacts open.
If the electrical part in a vehicle stops working, one of the first things to check is the circuit breaker. Our expert mechanics will check to make sure it doesn’t need to be replaced by testing it under load. A damaged circuit breaker or one that has been tripped may be a sign of another electrical problem, so this may warrant further inspection of other components in the electrical system.
Repairing a malfunctioning circuit breaker is critical because a faulty one can cause damage to any electrical accessories and melt wires. If the circuit overloads, a resulting electrical fire will destroy the vehicle.
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