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:

    Thermo-viscous cooling fan (SOHC models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Remove the four retaining clips and unscrew the two retaining screws, then withdraw the upper section of the fan shroud (see illustrations). 1 ...

    Starter motor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Apply the handbrake, jack up the front of the vehicle and support on axle stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). 2 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 3 Working underneath the ve ...

    Headlamp control
    Turns the lamps off. Turns on the parking lamps, instrument panel lamps, license plate lamps and tail lamps. Turns the headlamps on. Foglamp control (if equipped) Rotate forward to activa ...