Why should you repair damaged cables in a specialized workshop?
Damaged cables can be repaired relatively quickly and easily with a little skill and the right tools. Often, however, the actual fault must first be localized, requiring a multimeter to measure the electrical system. If a complete replacement of the wiring harness is required to repair the damage, it is advisable to have the damage repaired immediately by a specialist workshop, as this usually involves a larger amount of work. It should be noted that repairs to high-voltage cables, such as those from the ignition system, cannot be carried out by conventional means. Knowledge in the field of vehicle electrical engineering is necessary to avoid cost-intensive consequential damages, especially since several and often expensive control units are usually installed in this area.
What should you pay attention to when repairing damaged cables?
Cable breaks caused by mechanical wear can only be repaired by cutting the affected area and then reconnecting the ends. It should be noted that network cables should be completely replaced immediately, not repaired.
Why should a broken cable be professionally repaired immediately?
Depending on the degree of damage to the cables, consequential damage may occur if not repaired. Damaged insulation should also be repaired immediately. It is true that insulating tape can be quickly stuck on as a cheap makeshift solution, but it must not be permanent. For example, it easily separates from the damaged area if it gets dirty or is exposed to strong heat fluctuations.
What should be done first if a cable break is suspected?
Damaged cables First of all, the faulty cable must be localized. A loose contact can usually be located by moving the appropriate cable. It is helpful and often necessary for troubleshooting to first measure the electrical system with a multimeter. It is important to ensure that the cable being repaired is de-energized before starting the repair. Turning off the engine and starting the ignition helps only to a limited extent, because the cables carrying permanent plus are always live. It is therefore advisable to disconnect the battery beforehand. This ensures that the entire electrical system in the car is de-energized.
What tools are needed to repair damaged cables?
As a general rule, to repair damaged cables, you need a multimeter, wire stripper, crimp or solder connector, shrink tube, insulating tape and, for soldered connections, a soldering iron.
What are the repair options in the event of a cable break?
Unless it”s a damaged ignition cable or other ignition system cables that always have to be completely replaced, a broken cable can usually be repaired by cutting the faulty part of the cable and reconnecting the undamaged ends of the cable. Plugs and connectors or end connectors using soldering technology can be used for connection. Insulation can be permanently repaired with shrink tubing.
How long does it take to repair a damaged cable?
A simple cable break can usually be repaired within minutes with the right tools. However, if it is necessary to replace the complete cable harness, it will take from two to six hours, in exceptional cases and depending on the type of vehicle, and 1-2 days.
