Symptoms of a Faulty or Faulty Ballast Resistor

Common symptoms: the car will not start or starts, but immediately stalls. Only a professional mechanic should handle the ballast resistor.

A ballast is a device in your vehicle that limits the amount of current in an electrical circuit. Ballast resistors are commonly found in older cars because they don't have the benefits of circuit boards that most modern cars have. Over time, a ballast resistor can be damaged through normal wear and tear, so there are a few things to look out for if you suspect a failing or failing ballast resistor needs service.

The most obvious symptoms will be that the car starts but immediately stalls as soon as you let go of the key. In this case, AvtoTachki specialists will be able to measure the voltage coming from the ballast resistor and determine if it needs to be replaced. Once they read the voltage, they will tell you what state your ballast resistor is in.

Doesn't start at all

If the ballast resistor is not working properly, the car will not start. Since this is an electrical system, it is best left to the professionals. The only way to restore the car's performance is to replace the ballast resistor.

Don't jump over the resistor

Some people try to jump over the resistor, which means you shunt the ballast resistor and the extra current goes to the points. The points are not designed for such additional voltage, which leads to their premature wear and failure. This will give you a much more extensive repair than if you replaced the ballast resistor first. Also, it can be dangerous, especially if you don't know what you're doing because you're fiddling with electricity.

Let the car be

If your ballast resistor is defective, your car will not start and you will have to tow it to a workshop. Turning to AvtoTachki professionals, you can reduce the cost of evacuation, because they go to your home. Also, since the car will not start, this is not a dangerous situation as long as you leave the car alone. Do not attempt to bypass the ballast resistor and do not continue to attempt to start the engine. Let the professionals fix it so you can be on your way.

The biggest sign that your ballast resistor is bad is that your car will start but immediately stop as soon as you release the key. If you suspect you need a replacement, be sure to contact a professional mechanic.