What causes a short circuit in the Audi A6 secondary air pump relay?
1 Answers
A short circuit in the Audi A6 secondary air pump relay may occur due to damaged insulation on the corresponding wires, causing the wires to come into contact with each other and resulting in a short circuit. Function of the secondary air pump: The secondary air pump's role is to supply air to the catalytic converter when the engine is cold, allowing the exhaust gases to undergo secondary combustion upon encountering oxygen in the air. This raises the temperature of the catalytic converter, enabling it to reach its optimal operating temperature sooner, thereby reducing harmful emissions and serving an environmental purpose. If the pump fails, cold-start emissions will exceed standards. Working principle of the secondary air pump: When the engine is running, the air pump is driven by the crankshaft belt, delivering a high-volume, low-pressure airflow through a hose to the diverter valve. Under normal conditions, the diverter valve opens, allowing the airflow to pass through the valve and a one-way check valve into the air injection manifold. Below is an introduction to the secondary air pump's functions: it draws fresh air into the pump and directs it into the exhaust system. The fresh air accelerates the catalytic reaction in the catalytic converter, converting carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons in the exhaust into carbon dioxide and water, serving an environmental purpose. It operates for a maximum of five minutes. Additionally, it helps the catalytic converter reach its operating temperature sooner, reducing harmful emissions and fulfilling an environmental role.
