How To Test Relays- EricTheCarGuy
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- čas přidán 30. 08. 2012
- How To Test Relays- EricTheCarGuy
How to test relays is a video about just what it says. Every once in a while you need to test a relay and when you do it's important to check it thoroughly, if not you may think it's good and it's not, just because it 'clicks' doesn't mean it's good because that's only part of the equation. Yes you can swap it out with a known good relay and that will save you time but if you don't have a known good then this test should do the trick for you. This video is also a good way to get to know what's inside a relay and how it works so if you're curious about that this would be a good video to watch.
If you want to see a video on basic electrical diagnosis click here.
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Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy. - Auta a dopravní prostředky
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Im 21, I have 5 ASE's and work in a independent repair shop. I watch your videos in my free time trying to learn all i can. You really have helped me in the real world diagnosing problems and understanding systems. thanks for the videos you make!! it has made me a better technician!
I would also recommend you to check south main auto repair channel. Lots of good stuff there, good luck in the automotive world.
eric please do not ever retire .you make the best vids you explain everything in detail
Eric you are an excellent car repair instructor. I have learned so much watching your videos. God Bless..!!!
Eric, thank you so much for a simple, yet comprehensive instruction on how to test one of these stupid things. I gotta say, your videos are some of the best. Unlike so many of the other instructional videos on youtube, you do not ramble about this, that or the other thing. You don't offer superfluous information about the job. you are direct and to the point.
EricTheCarGuy, I want to say thanks to this videos I was able to fix my car. My car was having a no spark because of bad ASD relay. Your process of testing relay is simple and effective. This video help me identify a bad relay that prevent my car from starting. Once again thanks:)
Great video Eric! Thanks for sharing! This is great for individuals learning how to check/test relays.
You're awesome man! I have used the info you have provided to fix electrical problems. I also sincerely respect your "fixing it forward". Keep up the good work and God bless!
Thanx Eric TheCarGuy and Aaron Houk (couple comments below) Fixed the ole ladies car in less than 4 hours. That includes watching this and a few different vids, WALKING to the Hardware store, grabbing a Gerry can of fuel, changing the batteries in my flash light, a quick jaunt to the beer store, a conference with the neighbourhood guys (who saw a hood up and were drawn like flies to shit.... they didn't help, but drank my beer), and lastly actually doing the repairs. I'm a hero for less than an hour actual work. Keep up the great work.
Thanks! You saved me $20 and a trip to NAPA. Still don't have taillights on my POS 2002 Dodge 1500, but the relay checked out fine.
Thanks Eric, you, as always, explain things in a simplifed, "dumbed down" (Thank God) manner that I find very helpful and informative. Please keep it up!
Great explanation on relay testing.
I needed this
Yo Eric the car guy,
Thank you for your channel and the education I and others received on relays!!!! Means a
lot to people like me who need to repair their vehicles. God bless you for that!!!
Eric, U da man. Incredible channel...thanksa lot for sharing knowledge !
Big hug from Norway / Erik
thanks eric, your instructions were clear and concise and helped me diag a relay quickly.
Awesome Eric! Unfortunately I cannot do much of the sophisticated complicated heavy duty auto work anymore because I'm disabled with (MS). Your tips on at least me doing surface issues are definitely fulfilling! For the other issues at least good knowledge, when and if I need to take my car to a shop at least gives me money savings heads up on making sure I'm not going to get scammed, thank you so much!
This is the best video I have ever seen to clearly and effectively explain how a relay works and how to test it.
Well done! Detailed, easy to understand. Much appreciated!
Nice vid Eric...interesting stuff.
Hey Eric, back at your channel looking for answers. Thanks for the video.
just like to ask if there is a relay connected on the idle up of the aircon? same car toyota gli
Thanks for posting Eric. Another highly informative video, it been helping me in my school .. you are the dude! 👍
All your videos are so helpful and informative. Thank you!
Great explanation! Have you considered taking on another set of hands as a trainee? Like an apprentice or intern?
i have been asking Peggy Noonan the same question since March.
Thanks for all your videos Eric !! you are the real deal !!
I had no tail lights on my 2009 Chevy Van 40,000 miles.
I had brake lights.
I could not find the problem. The fuse box for tail lights is under the drivers seat.
I am a good mechanic but this had me stumped. It was low milage and all stock factory wiring.
I took it to the dealer and the mechanic there was young. I was skeptical but he found the problem in about 1 hour. I was impressed.
He found the problem in a very creative way. He could hear the relay clicking but no power. He then noticed that the OTHER RELAY in that box under the drivers seat, had the same part number so he switched them and bingo problem solved!
Victory Cheverolet in Petaluma, Ca.
lol, it took an hour to swap a relay?
salazam The mechanic had to find the problem first.
Hey Lucky Dog, I have the same problem with my van. No Tail lights and reverse lights but brakes and turn signals work fine. How did you or did you get the problem fixed? Thanks if you could steer me in the right direction.
Ernest Makainai Relay under the front seat, There are two relays, and on my 2009 they are both the same part no.
Lucky Dog That relay malfunctioned at 40,000 miles! Not very good.
I have no extra lights and was not using a trailer.
Thanks Eric. I just changed a bad relay for a buddies cooling fan and tested by swapping with another relay. I get home and you have this new video up. Perfect timing I did wonder how they work. Thanks again for you information. You really do help
This helped me to test my Air Conditioner's relay. Thanks!
I'm really impressed with the way you teach cause it gave us different alternatives to deal every step. And that's the best way. Keep the good work. Thank you.
Thanks Eric, good explanation of what a relay does, how a relay works and simple testing techniques.
You have saved people countless dollars with your well-done videos. Thank you Sir!
thanks for this video, i dont work on cars for a living but unlike most i do diagnose my own issues and sometimes i just forget how to test something or just to make sure i do a test right i hope on YT just to be sure. this video helped me diagnose a bad cooling fan relay or so i think. no clicky click, got continutity as soon as i touch ohmmeter to the relay so i presume its bad....of course i doubt it has anything to do with my car wanting to buck/lurch in lower rpm ranges...
i had a car do that for a while. it was a loose vacuum line in mine. good luck.
Thanks for the thorough explanation! I appreciate that you give an explanation on how the relays work. It's nice to have background info on the component rather than just how to test it. Thanks so much!! 😁😁
Good point about the diode across the coil. One thing to keep in mind is that OE relay coils driven from the PCM usually have the diode across the coil to protect the driver. Cheap universal relays sometimes doesn't have this diode and could take out your driver because of the high voltage spike. Just something to keep in mind.
thanks for the video, i'm glad to see that our voices are being heard and responded to. keep up the good work, i can't wait to see what i can learn next.
Thanks for all your helpful videos, Eirc. I was wondering... do relays ever stick "closed" on the high amp side such as causing secondary air pump not to shut off resulting in motor burn out? Thanks.
Helped me diagnose my ac relay today. I appreciate your videos. Thank you
This was very helpful in understanding hvac relays
I appreciate the useful information of your videos, thanks
I followed you directions on how to check if there is a draw on a car battery. I purchased a digital multimeter and hooked it up like you said. I found there is a 1.42 amp draw on the system. Now I am going to go through the fuses like you said. I never even knew about relays before. Very interesting.
Dude! First video I saw of yours. Incredibly helpful! Thanks a million!
Thanks Eric, i looked at a few other relay test vid but none was as good and clear as yours, THANKS CHAMP, once again you have helped me out.
Great video. Thanks Eric. One other issue you might cover regarding relays in older automobiles is the solder points. For example: older Acuras and and Hondas can have an intermittent relay problem (probably other makes as well), where the car wont start when raining or in the morning when its cold, or if there is dew because the relay solder points are "micro" cracked. The relay may pass the bench test in a heated garage, but wont pass if damp. Google: "How to solder and fix the Main Relay."
I have had switches relays and even fuses that close and show continuity but wont handle the amp load. There is a volt drop test for that. I do like this guys videos. I've watched a bunch of them. I really like finding top dead center with my vacuum/pressure gauge. Thanks Eric
Thanks for help , 2 relays were replaced and solved the not starting problem
As an electrical engineer who happens to really like car stuff...I approve! Great video! As long as you know some basics like this, electricity isn't all that bad. Like you said in your last video, it works a lot like water.
This was a great guide for me. I didn't have a probe and wanted to do it inside so to activate the first circuit I used 3 D batteries end to end with an alligator clip sellotaped to either end. Then just used the continuity setting on the multimeter to get a reading. Was re-assuring given my weird car problem. On a VW 109 relay it wasn't so straight forward which pins did what so there was a bit of trial and error till I worked it out. The diagram on the side wasn't helpful either(to an electronics like me anyway!). But I know I got the right ones in the end cos I tested the bejesus out of it. And I could see the metal switch go on and off and hear the continuity go on and off accordingly.
Christ this is turning into a confession...
Anyway thank you for the guide Sir. You're a gent.
very detailed thanks Eric I appreciate your time
great video eric,very infomative,good teacher too
Thanks for the video Eric!
Thank you for the demonstration of how to test your relays. Very helpful.
Wow that was explained very well. You should give car lessons in schools lol.
youtube university dawg.
I like it
Yes, making/breaking higher amperage circuits with the probe tip will greatly increase switch life! Doing so is a good habit to get into!
Most of (but not all) Power Probe 3's have an easily replaceable snap in switch. It's a good idea to keep a few spares on hand. The switch assembly is Power Probe's "Achilles' heel"
Older Power Probes, and early PP 3's have soldered in switches that are a PITA to replace.
I'm stumped. 03 Rsx. My relays are buzzing. Condenser, radiator, and I believe is another relay that controls both condenser & radiator fans. Both fans work and fan switch works. I bypass the fan switch and the relays buzz crazy(fans not working). I also tried to turn on AC and does the same thing (with the fan switch connected). I heard the ac pressure switch might be connected to the fans somehow. Idk:( Big fan of your channel. Keep up the great work Eric!!!
Great explanation of how a relay works & what it does.
Thanks man. I always learn alot from your videos
Thanks! Could I use any relay in my fuse box that is exactly the same but different color? Does it matter??
Very well illustrated. I am a retired electrical engineer & that is exactly how you should test a relay. Well done....
Thank you Eric for making a great and educational video.
Awesome..Clear and concise explanation. Thanks :)
Hey Eric thanks for videos ⚽🤘😁 I was wondering what kind of info/videos you got on lighting control module for 96 Continental??? And also on 2000 Audi a6 quatro 2.7t
Hey Eric,
Another great informative video! Relays have been one of the more confusing parts for me. One question though, what model DVOM is that? Thanks!
Very clear description and visual demonstration on how they work. Cheers!
Thank you, you are a great teacher.
Thanks for another great video, Eric! Is it possible for a relay to only fail when hot and return to normal when it cools off?
great video on relay...plain straight and simple to understand...keep 'em comin', eric...kudos!!!!!
Awesome Eric !!! Knowledgeable and Wonderful you are !!! Keep it up Friend !!!
How do you test hazard relays with more than 4 leads?
Great video as always. Just a note that the diagram at the top of the relay is when it is at rest (off). I might add that I've seen relays be intermittent, so it may be useful to click the power on the low-power control-side about 10-15 times to see if it ever fails once. If it does, replace it. Also, ESI makes a relay tester (model # ESI-190) for those who need to test relays often.
great video, its good to get a proper explanation of how automotive relays work thanks
Eric, thanks again....made test leads and tested the glow plug relay, which is working. Still no glow plugs though. Checked fuses, but have read about a thermistor or timer relay on glow plugs? Possibly a hidden fuse somewhere as tachometer not working also. Your videos are the best..greetings from Spain
brilliant and imformative videos eric , keep them comming , you the man dude
Dude, your videos are awesome! Thank you for doing this.. Currently doing a project 2002 Toyota Celica GT that's got some electrical issues.
This was perfect for DIYer. I have relays on an e-fan that had corroded prongs, cleaned those and it worked but now occasionally intermittent and I was wondering how to test the relays.
Love your stuff Eric the Car Guy!
Very helpful video, currently have starter issues with my car, despite it working fine while running errands, it just stopped starting. Thought it was the starter, had it tested, the starter engaged but even when connected to car - starter wouldn't engage. Battery tested, said it needed to be replaced, but no dice. Remembered when my battery had low charge, it would make a clicking sound from the relay but now when the ignition is turned, there's no clicking sound, just a faint buzzing sound.
Yes, and even the more complex topics such as voltage drop testing and dynamic resistance are easily visualized using a flowing water analogy. EE seems so far away now, but the fun stuff is still rich with color.
One of the faults of the power probe is the switch, which tends to corrode when power is turned on and off at the switch. Basically you get arcing of the contacts inside the probe switch. The makers have suggested pressing the switch button when the probe is not touching anything, and then move the probe tip to the terminal you are interested in. The arcing occurs at the tip, which is easy to repair.
That's a nice simple video, Eric. It seems the numbering of those terminals is universal.
it was an excellent video, explanation was spot-on and clear, also very realistic because your test leads didn't just appear in the positions to do the test.
Great video. Very helpful. Keep up the good work.
ive looked for a powerprobe on the tool trucks...no one has them......think il go online and order one from them directly
Thank you!!! Your videos are awesome as ever!
Thanks for the visual on how it works too!
Great Job Eric thanx for sharing most people do not understand the resistance is in the high powered contact from multiple uses they get a carbon build up from being and burnt from normal use.
Hello ERIC! Just a quick thing that came to mind while watching this video that might help others! Using double ended alligator clips and attach them to the DVOM leads and the other end of the clips to the relay !
Have a good one
That's so much for your help Im having trouble with cooling fan relays, I will try your suggestion on test my relays .
Very good video. Years later it is still teaching people. Thanks!
Good point about the diagram shows the device at rest without any power applied. Also, the best test in my opinion for a relay is to check it under actual load conditions where current is flowing through the contacts. A voltage drop across the contact would be more meaningful than measuring resistance. I would bet the relay tester you mention would be putting a load on the contacts which is better.
Really ought check the secondary circuit under load. Sometimes dirty contacts will not show unless they're loaded.
very instructive and well appreciated
thanks a lot for showing the closeup of the relay, really hammers home the concept
Thanks Eric that was very helpful
I like to listen people they know their trade really well. I learned something good today. Thanks!
Thank you Eric!
I LOVE YOU ERIC!! YOU SERIOUSLY SAVED ME TONS OF MONEY AND TIME!!!
Can you test a two prong blinker switch? I had continuity but it was bad.
I now understand! Thanks for this very clear and helpful video.
Thanks for the great tutorial. I have saved so many $$$$ because of this video. May God bless you and God bless you tube.
Yay! Thanks for another helpful video :D
Eric... I love your videos, but the whole time im watching you struggle with the 4 terminals of the relay... Im thinking, theres aligator clips right there!
I just replaced my starter solenoid just to find out the relay was bad. I’m in Brasil and autoparts stores here are almost worthless. So I opened the relay and the contacts were totally black (the burning from many years of use soots up the contacts.)
I cleaned the contacts with scotchbrite and put a dab of dielectric grease to prevent the arcing that jumps the gap causing the burn marks.
It’s working great. I’ll be ordering another one soon just in case. When you’re in a pinch, you might try what I did.
I got 2 questions:
1. Will you damage the relay if you put the 12 volt wrong? IF you do what you do, but you take the power source on the other ones and the voltometer on the others? (I guess It wont click, but will I damage it by doing wrong?
2. How do you know the correct way to put it back in?