Electrical Service
Electrical System Service
Batteries, Starters, Alternators — and the Complicated Stuff Too
Your Vehicle Runs on Electricity
When something electrical fails, it can be straightforward (dead battery) or frustrating (intermittent issue that comes and goes). We handle both. Our technicians are experienced with electrical diagnosis and repair — including the complicated stuff other shops don't want to touch.
Battery Testing & Replacement
• Vehicle is slow to crank or won't start
• Battery warning light on the dash
• Electrical accessories acting strangely
• Battery is more than 4–5 years old
• You've needed a jump start recently
Battery Testing
We test your battery's state of charge and cold cranking amps to see if it's still healthy. We also test the charging system to make sure your alternator is keeping it charged.
Battery Replacement
When it's time for a new battery, we install one that matches your vehicle's requirements — correct size, terminal configuration, and capacity.
Battery Registration
Many newer vehicles (especially European) require the new battery to be "registered" with the vehicle's computer so the charging system adjusts properly. We have the equipment to do this.
Starter Diagnosis & Replacement
• Clicking sound when you turn the key (no crank)
• Grinding noise when starting
• Intermittent no-start (sometimes works, sometimes doesn't)
• Starter engages slowly or sounds labored
We diagnose starter problems properly — testing the battery, connections, and starter circuit before condemning the starter itself. Sometimes a 'bad starter' is actually a bad connection, weak battery, or wiring issue. If the starter is the problem, we replace it with a quality unit.
Alternator Diagnosis & Replacement
• Battery warning light on the dash
• Dimming headlights or interior lights
• Battery keeps dying (even a new battery)
• Electrical accessories not working properly
• Whining noise from the engine area
We test alternator output and determine whether it's charging properly. Alternator problems can also be caused by bad wiring, loose connections, or a slipping belt — we check the whole system before recommending replacement.
When It's More Complicated
Not all electrical problems are as simple as a dead battery
Something is draining your battery while the vehicle sits. Finding it requires methodical testing — disconnecting circuits until we find the culprit.
Problems that come and go are the hardest to find. They require patience, experience, and sometimes extended monitoring.
Rodent damage, corrosion, chafed wires, poor previous repairs. We trace wiring and fix it properly.
Failed control modules, communication problems between systems, software issues requiring reprogramming.
Poor grounds cause all kinds of strange symptoms. We check and repair ground connections.
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, trailer wiring — we diagnose and repair lighting problems.
Our Approach to Electrical Diagnosis
Professional Diagnostic Equipment
Snap-on, OEM factory tools, and Autel scanners for comprehensive vehicle coverage
Electrical Testing Tools
Multimeters, test lights, oscilloscopes, circuit trackers for detailed testing
Wiring Diagrams
Access to factory wiring information for your specific vehicle
Experience
Our techs have seen a lot of weird electrical problems and know how to track them down
Wiring Repair & Modifications
Damaged Wiring Repair
Rodent damage, accident damage, corrosion — properly repaired
Connector Repair
Corroded or damaged connectors replaced or rebuilt
Accessory Wiring
Trailer hitches, auxiliary lighting, aftermarket accessories installed correctly
Previous Hack Job Repairs
Fixing what the last guy did wrong
What We See Often
Common electrical problems we diagnose and repair
Parasitic draw from aftermarket accessories, trunk/glove box lights staying on, or failing modules. We find the culprit.
Flickering, dimming, or lights that don't work. Could be bulbs, wiring, ground issues, or failing switches.
Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats — problems with switches, motors, wiring, or fuse/relay issues.
Sometimes it starts, sometimes it doesn't. Battery, starter, ignition switch, safety switches, wiring, or computer issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a battery last?
Typically 4–6 years, depending on climate, driving habits, and quality. Alberta winters are hard on batteries. If yours is over 4 years old, it's worth testing.
Why is electrical diagnosis so expensive?
It's not expensive — it's time-intensive. Electrical problems often require methodical testing, accessing wiring, checking multiple circuits, and interpreting diagnostic data. A straightforward problem might take 30 minutes. A complicated intermittent issue might take several hours. We charge fairly for the time involved.
Can you install aftermarket accessories?
Yes — things like trailer wiring, auxiliary lighting, or other electrical accessories. We'll wire it properly so it works reliably and doesn't cause problems.
My battery keeps dying. Is it the battery or the alternator?
Could be either — or something else. A failed alternator won't keep the battery charged. A parasitic draw will drain even a good battery with a good alternator. We test the whole system to find the actual cause.
Do you work on hybrid/EV electrical systems?
Yes. We have technicians trained for hybrid and electric vehicle service, including high-voltage safety. See our Hybrid & EV Service page for more information.
Related Services
Electrical Problems?
From dead batteries to complicated wiring issues, we can diagnose and fix it.