Difficulty Level

Tools/Supplies Needed:

• multimeter

Procedure:

• a digital or analog multimeter can be used for this procedure
• using a multimeter, set the multimeter to the lowest ohms increment or to the continuity setting if equipped
• put the test probes together to determine the lowest value the multimeter will show
• if the reading is not 0, this can be caused from a low battery or dirty test probes
• disconnect any electrical components or connectors in order to test the wire
• determining where the wire runs, check the continuity/resistance between point A to B by placing the testing probes on the wire contacts
• read the given value
• if there is an excessive amount of resistance or no continuity within that particular wire you are testing, there could possible be a break in the wire or a loss connection
• inspect the wiring for any corrosion in the contacts
• inspect the wiring for any breaks in the casing
• inspect the wiring for any corrosion leaking out of the casing
• pull along the wire to see if it "stretches" (a broken wire within the casing, which is still held together by the exterior casing/insulation)
• using a needle, penetrate the casing and test for continuity/resistance in the plugs or between points A and B
• once the problem is found, take the correct actions to resolve the issue

Causes:

• corroded wiring
• corroded connectors
• break in the wire
• break in the casing which caused the wire to corrode
• break in the casing to cause the circuit to short out
• constant bending or strain on the wire which caused the wire to crack

Possible Repairs:

• if contacts are corroded, clean contacts using a solution or an abrasive pad
• if casing is broken, repair using silicon, shrink tube, or electrical tape
• if wire is broken, a section can be cut out and replaced by soldering or using solderless crimp connectors to attach the new wire
• the entire harness can also be replaced if chosen