Relays — General information and performance testing (Chevrolet Orlando 1)

Relays are used to connect electrical circuits of consumers with power sources and to protect switch contacts from high current. The relays are installed in the fuse and relay mounting blocks located in the engine compartment and the vehicle interior under the instrument panel. Some are integrated directly into mounting blocks and electrical consumers.

The principle of operation of the electromagnetic relay axis is based on the closing of contacts under the action of electromagnetic force arising in the coil when electric current passes through it.



The vehicle is equipped with standard four-pin relays of several types, differing in shape, color and maximum current value, but identical in operating principle, so these relays are tested in the same way.

Nowadays, contactless relays have come into use, where a semiconductor device is used as a switching element.

To test the relay, it is necessary to apply voltage to the control contacts and measure the resistance between the power contacts.





If the relay is working properly, the resistance will be close to zero (infinitely small). Otherwise, the relay is faulty and needs to be replaced.