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:

    Heater motor - removal and refitting
    Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead. 2 Where necessary, unclip the brake servo vacuum hose for improved access. 3 On models from 1987, unclip the windscreen washer hoses and wiring fro ...

    Engine - refitting (automatic transmission in vehicle)
    1 Reverse the procedure described in Section 10, noting the following points: 2 Check that the engine adapter plate is correctly positioned on its locating dowels. 3 As the torque converter is onl ...

    Exterior lamps - removal and refitting
    Headlamp Removal 1 On pre-1986 models, remove the radiator grille as described in Chapter 11. 2 Working in the engine compartment, disconnect the headlamp wiring multi-plug and remove the sidela ...