How to Rewire Your Car’s Electrical System For Less Than $50

Introduction

Rewiring a car's electrical system may sound daunting, but with some basic tools and components, it can be done on a budget under $50. A rewired electrical system can provide more reliable power to your lights, stereo, phone chargers and other accessories.

In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk through all the steps needed to fully rewire a car's electrical system for less than $50. I'll cover:

• Assessing your car's electrical needs
• Creating a wiring diagram
• Gathering required tools
• Buying electrical components
• Step-by-step installation guide
• Testing the new system
• Troubleshooting tips

So if you want to upgrade your ride's electrical system without breaking the bank, let's get started!

Assessing Your Car's Electrical Needs

The first step is figuring out what electrical circuits and features your car needs. Bold some key questions to consider:

• What are your power requirements? Determine what voltage and amperage is required for each electrical component.

• Which circuits need rewiring? Check fuse boxes and wiring harnesses to see which circuits need repairs or replacement.

• What new features do you want? Consider new additions like a backup camera, LED lights, or a sound system.

• How will wires be routed? Plan where wires will run under dashboards, through firewalls, and inside trim panels.

Thoroughly assessing your car's electrical needs will ensure your new system is designed to power all the essentials.

Creating a Wiring Diagram

Next, you'll want to map out the new system with a wiring diagram. This visual layout shows:

• Connection points for all components (lights, battery, fuses, etc.)

• Circuit paths running from power sources to endpoints

• Fuse boxes, relays, and switch locations

• Wire gauges and colors

• Electrical grounding locations

Having an accurate diagram makes installation much simpler. You can draw it yourself or find a diagram online for your specific car make and model.

Gathering Required Tools

Rewiring a car requires some specific tools for cutting, stripping, and connecting wires:

• Wire strippers - Removes rubber insulation from wire ends

• Crimping pliers - Attaches wire terminals to bare wire ends

• Voltmeter - Measures voltage in circuits

• Soldering iron - Bonds wiring connections

• Electrical tape - Insulates wire connections

• Zip ties - Secures and organizes wires

• Wire cutters - Cuts wires to required lengths

• Safety gloves and goggles - Protects from sparks and sharp edges

Having these basic tools on hand will enable you to complete all required wiring tasks.

Buying Electrical Components

Here are the key electrical supplies you'll need to rewire a car's system for under $50:

• Wiring harnesses - Pre-bundled wires for a specific circuit

• Fuses and fuse blocks - Protects circuits from power spikes

• Relays - Controls high-power circuits

• Battery terminals - Connects wires to battery

• Wire connectors - Joins wire ends together

• Grounding straps - Provides ground connections

• Heat shrink tubing - Insulates wire joints

• Light bulbs/LEDs - For lighting circuits

The total cost can be kept low by getting universal wiring harnesses, bulk packages of connectors, and sticking with standard fuses. Check wrecking yards for very cheap used components.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Now let's get to the hands-on part - installing your new automotive wiring system. Follow these key steps:

Disconnect the Battery

Before touching any wires, always disconnect the negative battery terminal. This cuts all power and avoids getting shocked.

Remove Old Wiring

Start stripping out the old wiring harnesses and components. Remove dash panels and trim to access hard-to-reach wires.

Mount New Fuse Box

Install a new fuse box or relay center in a spot that's protected from moisture. Attach it securely to a metal surface.

Run and Connect New Wires

Route your new replacement wiring through the car following your diagram. Cut each wire to length and connect to lighting fixtures, switches, and components.

Insulate and Protect Connections

Once wires are attached, thoroughly insulate each connection point with heat shrink tubing or electrical tape. This prevents shorts.

Reinstall Panels and Covers

With all new wiring installed, reattach removable panels and engine bay covers. This protects wires and gives a tidy appearance.

Reconnect Battery and Test Circuits

Reconnect the battery and test all electrical circuits one by one. Check for full functionality before buttoning everything up.

Taking it slow and methodically will result in a professionally rewired car electrical system.

Testing the New System

Once installation is complete, it's crucial to fully test your rewired system. Here are the steps:

• Turn the ignition key to activate power but don't start the engine.

• Switch on headlights, hazard lights, stereo, charging ports, and other components.

• Check the voltmeter to confirm proper voltage to each circuit.

• Start the vehicle and rev engine to test alternator amperage.

• Test all electrical devices while driving to check for faults.

• Inspect wiring connections for heat buildup or melting.

• Ensure no warning lights related to electrical faults activate on the dash.

Only after passing all tests should you consider the new system good to go. Taking the time to test thoroughly avoids overlooking issues.

Troubleshooting Tips

Despite best efforts, you may encounter some problems with a DIY rewiring job. Here are some quick troubleshooting tips:

• No power at all? Check fuses, wiring connections, and battery cable contacts.

• Dimming lights? Tighten loose wire connections which can cause voltage drops.

• Electrical shorts? Isolate shorts, then inspect wires for damage or exposed copper.

• Warning lights on? Diagnose codes with OBD scanner, then follow repair guide.

• Burned out bulbs? Confirm correct bulb wattage and no current overload.

In most cases, wiring issues can be fixed with close inspection of connections and wire routing. Having patience pays off.

Summary

Rewiring your car provides reliability and options for new accessories. By following the steps here and working safely, it can be done for less than $50 in parts. The key is having an accurate diagram, quality tools, patience, and attention to detail. Take it slow and double check your work. Then enjoy your revitalized vehicle electrical system!