Are all auto relays the same?

Are all auto relays the same?

The problem is, not all relays are the same. Many relays, if installed for the wrong application, could and will cause a short (Internal Relay Circuit) and most likely cause functionality issues or even damage to the vehicle computer systems.

How much do car relays cost?

You can buy a relay for as low as $5 for a generic multi-purpose relay or as much as $350 for a complex, direct-fit relay. A starter relay costs around $20 to $80 while a main relay costs around $20 to $200.

How do automotive relays work?

In the most simple terms an automotive relay is an electronically operated switch. They are found in all types of vehicles – cars, trucks, vans, trailers and boats. They employ an electromagnet device to mechanically manoeuvre a switch to make or break an electrical circuit.

What kind of relay do I need for my car?

You will usually see 3, 4, and 5 prong relays. An automotive relay will be working with either a 12vor 5v signal. 12v, the standard of all automotives batteries, and 5v the standard for automotive sensors. For this article, lets just assume we are talking about standard 12v relays.

How many prongs does an automotive relay have?

A relay does the same. It takes the incoming voltage and once grounded will send that voltage to other places. So lets just focus on what an automotive relays is. You will usually see 3, 4, and 5 prong relays. An automotive relay will be working with either a 12v or 5v signal.

How many contacts does an automotive relay have?

In an automotive relay with two contacts this would mean that one contact is opened while the other is closed. Different relays may have a greater/ fewer number of contacts depending on design.

How are resistors used in an automotive relay?

The table below shows the codes used in automotive relays. Some automotive relays are designed with diodes or resistors built in. These devices help suppress coil voltage spikes and protect the electronic circuit. When the voltage is removed and a relay is denergised the magnetic field collapses.