Functions and Roles of Automotive Wiring Harnesses

[SanManuel]

Automotive wiring harnesses are components formed by bundling wires to connect circuits. The following are the functions and roles of automotive wiring harnesses: 1. Automotive wires, also known as low-voltage wires, are different from ordinary household wires. Ordinary household wires are single-core copper wires with a certain degree of hardness, while automotive wires are multi-core flexible copper wires. Some of these flexible wires are as thin as hair, with several or even dozens of soft copper wires wrapped in plastic insulating tubes (polyvinyl chloride), making them flexible and not easily broken. 2. With the increase in automotive functions and the widespread application of electronic control technology, there are more and more electrical components and wires, making wiring harnesses thicker and heavier. Therefore, advanced vehicles have introduced CAN bus configurations, adopting multiplex transmission systems. Compared to traditional wiring harnesses, multiplex transmission devices significantly reduce the number of wires and connectors, making wiring simpler.

[McIsabela]

I remember when I first started driving, the wiring harness looked like a tangled mess, but later I realized it's essentially the nervous system of a car! Its main function is to bundle all the vehicle's wires into harnesses for easy installation and maintenance. Its roles include transmitting electricity to various devices, such as lights, air conditioning, and audio systems—things we use daily. It also specializes in signal transmission, allowing sensors and computers to communicate, monitoring oil pressure and temperature changes. Without it, the electrical components in the car would be a chaotic mess and prone to short circuits and fires. It's important to regularly check for aging or damage; otherwise, driving at night with flickering headlights can be very dangerous. It's recommended to have a mechanic inspect the connectors for corrosion every six months. This unsung hero, though inconspicuous, is crucial for the safe operation of the entire vehicle.

[Cynthia]

In safety tests, I've seen many failures stem from wiring harness issues. Its core function is to integrate wires to prevent clutter, acting like the main artery of a circuit: connecting the ECU to control engine actions, sensor feedback data, and distributing power to critical systems. Designed with flame-retardant materials, it prevents sparks from causing fires. After prolonged driving, the wiring harness is prone to vibration-induced wear, leading to poor contact and triggering warning lights. During maintenance, not only should the exterior be inspected, but the insulation layer must also be tested for integrity. A good wiring harness makes the vehicle more reliable, especially avoiding electrical failures at high speeds. Don't overlook this when choosing a car, as it directly impacts driving safety and overall lifespan.

[DeColin]

I have researched automotive electronics for many years, and the function of wiring harnesses is to simplify wiring, with a wide range of applications. It integrates engine wires and in-vehicle equipment into bundles, responsible for transmitting power and data signals, such as connecting spark plugs for ignition or dashboard displays. Modern vehicles use CAN bus systems, where wiring harnesses can reduce electromagnetic interference. For maintenance, regular dust cleaning prevents corrosion. Its efficient design makes vehicles more energy-saving.