General information and precautions

The body electrical system consists of all lights, wash/wipe equipment, interior electrical equipment, and associated switches and wiring.

The electrical system is of the 12 volt negative earth type. Power to the system is provided by a 12-volt battery, which is charged by the alternator (see Chapter 5).

The engine electrical system (battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system) is covered separately in Chapter 5.

Precautions
Warning: Before carrying out any work on the electrical system, read through the precautions given in “Safety first!” at the beginning of this manual, and in Chapter 5.

Prior to working on any component in the electrical system, the battery negative lead should first be disconnected, to prevent the possibility of electrical short circuits and/or fires.

    See also:

    Fuses, relays and circuit breakers - general information
    Pre-1986 models 1 The fuses and most of the relays are located in a plastic box attached to the bulkhead on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. 2 The fuses are numbered to identify the ...

    Automatic transmission fluid level check (Every 12 000 miles or 12 months)
    1 The automatic transmission fluid level must be checked when the engine and transmission are at normal operating temperature; preferably after a short journey. 2 Park the car on level ground, the ...

    Clock - removal and refitting
    Facia mounted clock Removal 1 Remove the instrument panel (Section 9). 2 Undo the screws around the edge of the instrument panel at the rear and separate the two panel halves. 3 Undo the nuts an ...