What are the causes of a complete vehicle power failure?
2 Answers
The causes of a complete vehicle power failure are: 1. The battery itself has been depleted of power; 2. The battery terminal has come off; 3. The wiring from the battery to the fuse box is damaged or burnt out; 4. The main circuit, main fuse, or main relay is burnt out or damaged; 5. The ignition switch is damaged. The impacts of a complete vehicle power failure are: 1. The electrical circuit cannot form a loop, causing the battery to stop supplying power and in-vehicle electrical devices to cease operation; 2. The vehicle's computer resets, resulting in data loss and the appearance of fault codes; 3. Certain vehicle functions such as anti-theft systems and driving recorders may fail, possibly reverting to factory settings and requiring reset.
Having driven for so many years, I've encountered quite a few cases of total vehicle power failure. The most common is a dead battery, such as when the battery ages and self-discharges quickly, or when lights are left on and drain the battery. Another common issue is a faulty alternator, which fails to charge the battery while driving, leading to the engine stalling once the battery is depleted. Blown fuses are also a frequent cause, especially if the main fuse or fuses for major circuits burn out, cutting off power to the entire vehicle. Electrical shorts, such as from worn wiring harnesses or improper wiring after modifications, can also cause power failure. Additionally, loose or corroded battery terminals leading to poor contact can result in a dead car. If this happens, don’t panic—first check and tighten the terminals, then try restarting. Regular vehicle maintenance should focus on these areas to minimize trouble and prioritize safety.
