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:

    Rear axle tube (Van models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Raise the rear of the vehicle and support it on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). Remove the rear roadwheels. 2 Support the axle tube on a jack preferably of trolley type. 3 ...

    Heater - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Refer to Chapter 11 and remove the centre console. 3 Working within the engine compartment, disconnect the coolant hoses from the heater pipe st ...

    Rear stub axle carrier Saloon and Estate models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Raise and support the rear of the car on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support”). Remove the roadwheel. 2 Remove the rear hub as described in Section 9. 3 Remove the rear brake shoe ...