

Note the switch symbol displays an open or closed circuit path, which is what an actual switch performs. For example, a few basic symbols common to electrical schematics are shown as: (1) Switch, (2) Battery, (3) Resistor and (4) Ground. Automotive Wiring Basic Symbols Common Symbols for Automotive DiagramsĪutomotive electrical diagrams provide symbols that represent circuit component functions. However, the abbreviated text labels or codes placed next to the symbols and lines help you out further by providing descriptions or location information. These lines actually represent current flow in and out of components connection points. It’s important to recognize when you see the solid and dotted lines on the diagram that there’s a major difference between the two. In fact, an electrical symbol may have a slight resemblance to the actual component or its main function. In the electrical schematics to follow you’ll see symbols arranged in a circuit to better reflect the function, power state, and relative location of various components. Understanding this visual language leads to faster detection of malfunctions and the capability to solve difficult car problems. Therefore, on this page you’ll find in depth definitions for some of the most common symbols used in the industry standard line drawings. These diagrams provide the quickest path to success when dealing with complex electrical problems on any vehicle. Diodes are used to convert an alternating current into a direct current. Current will not flow in the other direction. Semiconductor diodeĪ semiconductor diode allows current to flow in one direction only.

A LDR can be used as a sensor in cameras or automatic lights that come on when it gets dark. As the light intensity increases, the resistance decreases. At low light levels, the LDR has a high resistance. The resistance of a LDR depends on light intensity. A thermistor can be used in thermostats or heat activated fire alarms. As the temperature increases, the resistance decreases. At low temperatures, the thermistor has a high resistance.

The resistance of a thermistor depends on its temperature. A variable resistor is used in some dimmer switches and volume controls. Moving the position of the slider on this resistor, changes the resistance. A fixed resistor has a resistance that does not change. Fixed resistorĪ resistor restricts or limits the flow of electrical current.

LampĪn electrical current heats the filament in a bulb so that it gives out light. Some of the more common components are: SwitchĪ switch used to turn a circuit on (closed) and off (open). The following symbols show the different components that can be found in an electrical circuit.
