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:

    Radiator - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Drain the cooling system. 3 If not already done, disconnect the bottom hose from the radiator. 4 Disconnect the top hose and the expansion tank ...

    Steering column - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Set the front wheels in the straight-ahead position. 2 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 3 Remove the driver’s side lower facia trim panels. 4 Remove the screws and withdraw the s ...

    Tailgate lock (Hatchback and Estate models) - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Open the tailgate and prise out the trim panel using a wide-bladed screwdriver (see illustration). 12.1 Tailgate trim panel fixings - Hatchback and Estate models 2 Remove the lock bar ...