Does Replacing the Engine Wiring Harness Harm the Car?
3 Answers
Replacing the engine wiring harness does not harm the vehicle. Here is an introduction to the engine wiring harness: 1. Introduction: The wiring harness is the main network of a car's electrical circuits. Without a wiring harness, there would be no car electrical circuit. 2. Principle: A wiring harness refers to a component formed by crimping contact terminals (connectors) made of copper material with wires and cables, then molding an insulator or adding an external metal shell, and finally bundling them to form a circuit connection. 3. Specifications: The commonly used wire specifications in automotive wiring harnesses include nominal cross-sectional areas of 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 4.0, and 6.0 square millimeters.
With over 20 years of experience in automotive repair, replacing engine wiring harnesses is routine for me. Generally speaking, a proper replacement won't harm the vehicle, but the key lies in the execution. If done by professional technicians using OEM or high-quality parts while strictly following the manual, the vehicle's electrical system can become more stable—sometimes even resolving pre-existing issues. However, improper operations like loose connectors or mixed-up wiring may cause ECU malfunctions or short circuits, leading to engine misfires, warning lights flashing, and expensive repairs if other components get damaged. Regular maintenance checks for harness aging are crucial—address issues like wear or rodent damage early before they cause burnout. Choosing a reputable shop makes all the difference—it saves both hassle and money.
Last month, the engine wiring harness in my car broke, causing frequent stalling and warning alarms. I decisively went to get it replaced, which took two days and cost three thousand yuan. After the replacement, the car feels more responsive, with less noise, and I no longer worry about breaking down on long trips. Replacing the wiring harness doesn’t harm the car as long as the process is done carefully. However, don’t attempt to do it yourself—incorrect wiring can easily damage sensors, leading to serious consequences. I recommend having a technician diagnose the issue first, such as corrosion or accident damage, before deciding whether to replace it. Regularly inspect the engine compartment to prevent water or dirt ingress, which can extend the wiring harness’s lifespan. Remember, professional work is the best guarantee—don’t cut corners to save money or effort.
