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Automotive Relay

Your professional automotive relay supplier
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We are a company that manufactures high-quality automotive relays. We have over 20 years of experience in the foreign trade industry, with unique manufacturing processes and professional staff. And we work closely with customers to customize their exact needs

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Our products have reached international quality standards. And obtained CE certification

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We provide free pre-sales consultation, and in terms of after-sales service, we offer technical services such as product debugging and maintenance.

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Definition of Automotive Relay

An Automotive Relay is a digital or electromechanical managed switch and it is designed for DC voltages in passenger consolation and retainment systems. It also controls power levels in harsh environments. Generally, relays are an electric-powered switch that works with electromagnetism to transform small electric stimuli into large currents. This conversion takes place while an electrical current turns on electromagnets to shape or change the current circuits. Leveraging vulnerable inputs to power more potent current, relays can efficiently act as a switch or an amplifier for the electrical current.

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How Do Automotive Relays Work

 

Automotive relay works on the principle of electromagnetism. When the current draw is directed towards the relay, it produces an electromagnetic field to attract the movable rod to make the connections. The relay is securely mounted in its designated location to ensure its proper functioning in the electrical system. Now here I am explaining the science behind how an electromagnetic field is produced in the relay. Consider a relay as two circuits. One circuit is called the Coil circuit (also called a low voltage circuit, a low amperage circuit, controlling circuit. The second half circuit is called a load circuit or high amperage circuit. Remember that the load circuit is controlled by the coil circuit. When a current is applied to the relay's coil circuit, a magnetic field is produced which attracts the movable rod and makes a physical connection to the high-amperage circuit. In this easy way, the relay is commonly used to switch various types of electrical parts in the vehicle. On the other hand, when the current is removed from the coil circuit, the movable rod moves back to its original resting position, causing it to disconnect the contact to reduce the current of the high amperage circuits.

Features of Automotive Relays

In general, car relays serve the purpose of controlling and directing electricity. Here's a detailed overview of the functions of automotive relays: 

 

Protecting Switches
Automotive relays extend the lifespan of switches by preventing them from overheating. This protection ensures that combination switches in the car don't heat up quickly. The consequence of this relay protection is that car light switches won't melt due to excessive heat. Car relays typically require a substantial electrical current to function optimally. The electrical current after relay installation flows through the switch. The relay switch serves as a means of generating electrical current. This current is then directed to the AC compressor, car lights, and other electromagnetic components. In this regard, the relay functions to ensure that the switch remains durable and functional for an extended period.

 

Brightening Car Lights
Adding automotive relays to cars enhances electrical current strength, reducing resistance. This results in brighter car lights as the electrical current can flow optimally, providing maximum brightness.

 

Minimizing Resistance
Electrical resistance in cars affects the performance of electromagnetic components. Hindered electrical current can lead to dim car lights. Additionally, electrical resistance can cause the car horn to sound weak. Additional components, like relays, can be used to minimize electrical resistance. Relay installation shortens the circuit, ensuring a minimal reduction in electrical current. This optimized electrical current is then directed efficiently to components like the horn and car lights.

 

Car Locking Mechanism
Another function of relays is to serve as a locking mechanism in cars. This locking mechanism aims to secure the electrical current in the vehicle. Relays play a role in automatically connecting and disconnecting electrical current.

 

Electromagnetic Switch
The purpose of the electromagnetic switch, or so-called relay switch, is to control the electrical magnet. Car relays can generate magnetic force through the coil, which is passed by an electrical current. The magnetic force generated by the relay coil will connect terminals 30 and 87. This happens because the magnetic force on the relay coil pulls at the contact point. This pull makes both terminals connect automatically.

Types of Automotive Relays
 

There are many types of automotive relays on vehicles to meet the requirements of various applications. Below are the various types of automotive relay and their functions: 

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Normally Open Relays
Normally open relays only have four pins and can be wired only one way – normally open. This is unlike the changeover types of relays that can be wired into different forms including N.O.

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Change Over Relays
These are common types of relays in vehicles, they have five standard pins. They can be wired to be Normally Open (N.O.) using pins 30 & 87 and Normally Closed (N.C.) using pins 30 & 87a. These relays can also be wired as a changeover (both N.O. & N.C.) using 30 & both pins 87 & 87a. Whenever the relay is used as a changeover, it switches current from one circuit to another and back again. This depends on the state of its coil (ON or OFF).

3

Dual Open Contact Relays
A dual open contact relay has five pins like a change-over relay but has a dual set of contacts instead of a single contact. Because of this, pins 87 & 87a are Normally Open (N.O.) inside the relay as opposed to 87a which is Normally Closed (N.C.).

4

Potted Relays
A potted relay is a special relay that functions like other types of relays. Its difference from others is that its bottom part is sealed with epoxy to ensure water cannot penetrate inside. The limitation of the potted relay is that it cannot be repaired.

5

Time Delay Relays
Time relays are popular types of relays that are adjustable to maintain and control current flow through their contacts. Duration of current flow can also be adjected from as little as 2sec to as long as 3min after power is switched off to the coil. These types of relays contain a solid-state timing circuit with a variable resistor that controls the time delay effect. A time delay relay is commonly used for powering vehicles' parking lights for an extended time after the vehicle is exited so that you are around the vehicle.

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Flasher Relay
A Flasher relay has two or three pins, unlike the standard relays that have four to five pins. In a two-pin flasher, one pin is connected to power and the other to the light circuit. A three-pin flasher with an additional pin would be connected to an indicator light that lets the user know the flasher is on. Not all flasher's relays operate as a relay, some act more like circuit breakers. But they are still grouped as relays. Most flasher relays are thermally controlled like a circuit breaker. Current flows through the coil of the flasher relay to create enough heat. This heat causes the contacts inside the relay to deflect causing the contacts to open and stop the current flow. Once enough heat has been dispelled, the contacts will return to their original position and a current will flow again. Because these contacts constantly "Make and break", it produces a flash pattern of the turn signals. Well, the number of lights connected to a thermal flasher will determine its output performance.

7

Skirted Relays
Skirted types of relays have an extended skirt around their bottom to seal around a socket. This prevents water and contaminants from entering the relay contacts. These relays are often used in exposed areas of automotive.

Applications of Automotive Relays

Automotive relays are used in various applications within a vehicle, including:

Headlights
Relays control the high and low beams of headlights, ensuring proper lighting functionality.

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Horns
Relays provide the electrical power necessary for the horn to produce a loud sound.

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Fuel Pumps
Relays activate the fuel pump, ensuring the delivery of fuel to the engine.

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Fans
Relays control the operation of radiator fans, helping to cool the engine.

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Power Windows
Relays enable the movement of power windows, allowing for smooth operation.

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Wipers
Relays control the windshield wipers, ensuring efficient and timely wiping.

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Components of Automotive Relays

Automotive relays are composed of several components, including:

Electro-Magnet
This is the core part of a relay and is responsible for creating the electromagnetic force that moves the contacts. It is typically made up of a coil of wire wrapped around a ferromagnetic core.

Contacts
These are the electrical connections that open and close to control the flow of current depending on the input. They are typically made of a conductive metal such as silver or gold and can be either normally open relay contacts or normally closed relay contacts.

Armature
This is the moving part of the relay that is attracted by the electromagnetic force of the electromagnet. It is typically a metal rod or plate that is connected to the contacts, and when the relay is energized, it moves to close or open the contacts.

Common Terminal
This is the terminal on the relay that is connected to the electro-magnet and receives the low current signal that controls the relay.

Normally Open (NO) Terminal
This is the terminal on the relay that is connected to the normally open contact and carries the high current circuit when the relay is energized.

Normally Closed (NC) Terminal
This is the terminal on the relay that is connected to the normally closed contact and carries the high-current circuit when the relay is not energized.

Diode
A diode is an optional component that can be included in a relay to protect the relay and circuit from high voltage transients that may occur when the relay de-energizes.

Capacitor
A capacitor is an optional requirement that can be included in a relay to suppress electromagnetic interference (EMI) that may be generated by the relay.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Automotive Relays

 

 

When searching for an automotive relay, it is important to follow the steps below to ensure you make the correct choice. 

12V40A Automotive Relay 5-Pin

01.Determine the Voltage

Begin by identifying the voltage requirement for your automotive relay. Common voltages for automotive relays are 12V, 24V, or higher. Check the requirements of the electrical system to determine the correct voltage.

02.Determine the Relay Layout

Automotive relays come in various layouts, with the two most common being Single Pole Single Throw (SPST) and Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT). An SPST relay has four pins, while an SPDT has five pins.

03.Determine the Footprint

Automotive relays have different footprints or socket types for installation. The commonly used footprints include ISO Ultra Micro, ISO Micro 280, ISO Micro, ISO Mini, or ISO Maxi. Additionally, some automotive applications use PCB layouts.

04.Determine the Continuous Rating

Consider the continuous rating of the relay, which refers to the maximum current that can flow through the contacts without causing damage. Automotive relays typically have continuous ratings ranging from 20A to 75A.

05.Specify Mounting Options

Determine whether your relay requires a bracket for mounting or if it can be installed without one. Some relays come with integrated mounting brackets, while others may require separate brackets for secure installation. Ensure compatibility with your vehicle's mounting requirements.

06.Determine the Suppression

Automotive relays often require suppression to protect against voltage spikes and other electrical disturbances. Suppression options include resistors, diodes, or no suppression.
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202309141316541

Top relay supplier in China

The company specializes in producing over 50 series of small relays, high-power relays, automotive relays, automatic relays, timers, solid-state relays, counters, temperature controllers, relay sockets, switches, and more. The company insists on attracting numerous high-tech talents and strong technical strength, advanced production technology, testing equipment, scientific management, and effective services to provide customers with a reliable production line. The company has obtained the international quality system certification of 1S09001, and the product has passed the non-toxic and environmental protection test; Some products have passed CE certification and CQC certification.

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Certifications

Certificate obtained by QIANJI Relay Co., Ltd. in Zhejiang, China

High power relay CE-EMC M2021206C6675900

Certificate name

JQC-3FT73 CE-EMC M2021206C66760001

Certificate name

JQX-15FT90 CE-EMC M2021206C66761001

Certificate name

JQX-60F 60A CE-EMC M2021206C66765001

Certificate name

JQX-62F 1Z CE-EMC M2021206C6676600

Certificate name

JQX-80FJQX-59F CE-EMC M2021206C6676700

Certificate name

 

 

Common Problems of Automotive Relays
 

Q: What is an automotive relay?

A: An automotive relay is an electronic or electromechanical controlled switch that is designed for DC voltages in passenger comfort and retainment systems. It also controls power levels in harsh environments. Just like other switches, relays are operated by electrical power, a computer, or a control module. The purpose of an automotive relay is to automate the power to switch electrical circuits on and off at specific times. However, the functions of a relay are more than just automation; it provides the ability to switch multiple circuits, including different voltage types. This will happen within the same relay at the same time.

Q: What are the applications of automotive relay?

A: The applications of automotive relays are found in various parts of vehicles to power the specific component. One or more appliances in a car can depend on a relay system so that they can work accordingly and stop when one of them develops a fault. Parts in vehicles that use relays include dashboard indicator lights, headlights, braking, and trafficator lights. The engine fan also works with a relay. Windscreen, wiper, etc. in fact, along with a fuse almost all vehicle electrical system has a relay for their safety. Automotive relays are used to provide switching functions that support modern electrical conveniences and safety features in vehicles. These relays provide support to all types of vehicles – cars, trucks, vans, trailers, boats, etc. 12V DC relay switches are suitable for full voltage application, as a low current flow circuit can control a high current flow circuit such as a vehicle's horn, headlights, auxiliary lamps, fan motors, blower motors, etc.

Q: What are the components of automotive relays?

A: All relays have the same primary components but some types may contain additional parts depending on their features on applications. Below are the major components that will be found on all types of relays:
Frame – a container or heavy-duty frame that contains and supports the various parts of the relay.
Coil – is a wire wound around a metal core. It's the part that causes an electromagnetic field
Armature – is a moving part that opens and closes the contacts. There is an attached spring that returns the armature to its original position.
Contacts – it's the conducting part that causes the relay to make (close) or break (open) a circuit.
Relays have two circuits; an energizing circuit and a contact circuit. The energizing side has the coil while the relay contacts have the contact side. A relay coil is energized when the current flows through the coil and creates a magnetic field. In an AC unit, the polarity changes 120 times per second, polarity is also fixed in a DC system.

Q: What are the uses of a relay in the car?

A: Relays are frequently utilized in circuits to lessen the current that flows via the number one control switch. An enormously low amperage switch, timer, or sensor may be used to show a miles better potential relay on and stale. Another number one use for relays is while upgrading to halogen headlights on an older car.
The current draw for halogens is an awful lot more than the OEM headlight switches have been designed to carry, thereby setting extra pressure on the headlight switch. This can cause the untimely failure of the switch. Another required use for relays is while you're putting in an electric-powered cooling fan. If you twine directly, without a relay, all the extra strain from the fan can be positioned at the switch, mainly once more to early failure.

Q: What is the switching level of current in automotive relays?

A: The most common conditions that require using a relay happen while software desires to interchange from excessive to low current (or vice versa) in a similar circuit. For example, the temperature sensors that power HVAC devices require a level of amperage that massively exceeds the potential in their wiring. Relays offer the important amplification to transform a small current into a bigger one.

Q: How does the wiring of a relay work?

A: Relays range of their size, potential, and corresponding makes use of. However, even though they'll range in those respects, all relays feature in basically the identical way: one circuit is used to power any other.
The unique way wherein this happens relies upon whether or not the relay is normally open (NO) or normally closed (NC).
Normally Open Relays
Most relays are normally open; this is, the second one, the large circuit is in the off role by the means of default. In a normally open relay, power flows via an enter circuit, activating an electromagnet. This generates a magnetic subject that draws a touch to enroll in the second one. A large circuit permits the current to go with the drift. When the supply of power is removed, a spring attracts. The touch is far from the second circuit, preventing the go with the drift of energy and turning off the give-up device.
Normally Closed Relays
The basics of an NC relay are similar to an NO relay: there are circuits, with the second one being large, and an electromagnet moves a bodily touch among positions. But in the case of an NC relay, the default states are reversed. When the primary circuit is activated, the electromagnet attracts the touch far from the second circuit. As such, NC relays hold the bigger circuit via means of default.

Q: What are the types of car relays?

A: As of now, there are several types of car relays, and the type to be installed should be tailored to the car's specifications to avoid unnecessary strain. Here are the types of car relays:
3-Pin Relay
The 3-pin relay has three terminal components—30, 86, and 87. Terminal 30 has two terminals: 85 and 86. These three terminals interconnect to facilitate the flow of electrical current.
4-Pin Relay
The 4-pin relay is the basis of a single-load electrical circuit for fog lamps and horns. Power from the 4-pin relay can function to control the switch from terminal 85. The 4-pin relay is more comprehensive and can conduct electrical current more efficiently to the horn and lights.
5-Pin Relay
The next type of car relay is the 5-pin relay. In this 5-pin relay, there is an additional terminal, namely 87a. The function of the additional terminal 87a is to provide an output to run a circuit with a double load on a single relay.
A 5-pin relay can be useful for controlling the electrical current to the headlamp or stop lamp. Additionally, a 5-pin relay can better prevent obstacles in the electrical current. The additional terminal also makes the relay's performance more efficient.
8-Pin Relay
The last type of car relay to be aware of is the 8-pin relay. The 8-pin relay can provide two instructions at once to one switch to execute electrical commands. However, the 8-pin relay is rarely used due to varying vehicle needs.

Q: What are the causes of car relay damage?

A: Car relays can experience damage due to specific causes. Generally, there are two common reasons for car relay damage:
  • Coil Damage
This damage can occur due to a broken coil or a short circuit, which may arise because the insulation layer of the relay peels off, causing current to escape from the coil. If this issue occurs, the solution is to replace the relay coil with a new one. However, since replacing the coil alone can be quite complicated, people often prefer to replace the entire relay at once.
  • Platinum Damage
This damage is caused by the contacts that frequently experience intermittent electrical flow. However, it can also occur due to poor product quality, making it susceptible to damage.

Q: What are the common signs of a faulty automotive relay?

A: Signs of a faulty relay can include non-functional electrical components, such as headlights or fuel pumps, even when power is supplied. You might also notice clicking sounds from the relay or intermittent operation of the controlled component. If you experience these issues, it's worth checking the relay as a potential cause.

Q: Can I replace a faulty relay myself?

A: Yes, replacing a faulty relay can be a DIY task in many cases. Start by identifying the faulty relay based on the vehicle's service manual or the relay's identification markings. Then, carefully disconnect the wiring harness and remove the old relay from its socket. Finally, install the new relay and reconnect the wiring harness. However, if you're unsure or uncomfortable with electrical work, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.

Q: How do I test an automotive relay?

A: To test an automotive relay, you can use a multimeter to check the coil resistance and continuity of the contacts. First, measure the coil resistance by connecting the multimeter probes to the appropriate relay pins. Then, check for continuity across the relay contacts when the coil is energized. If the readings are outside the specified range or there's no continuity, the relay may be faulty.

Q: Can automotive relays fail due to other electrical problems in the vehicle?

A: Yes, electrical problems such as a faulty wiring connection or a short circuit in the controlled circuit can cause relays to fail. Excessive current or voltage spikes can also impact relay performance. If you suspect electrical issues in your vehicle, it's advisable to have a professional mechanic diagnose and repair the underlying problem to prevent further relay failures.

Q: Are there different sizes or types of automotive relays?

A: Yes, automotive relays come in various sizes and types. They can differ in the number of pins, contact configurations (such as SPST, SPDT, or DPDT), and current ratings. It's crucial to choose the appropriate relay for your specific application, considering factors like the controlled component's power requirements and the relay's voltage and current ratings.

Q: What are two 2 advantages of using a relay in an automotive circuit?

A: Firstly using a relay means the switching circuit does not require a high current rated switch or cable which reduces cost and weight. Secondly, relays can be positioned anywhere in the vehicle to provide efficient power transfer to the electrical accessory you are controlling.

Q: How to troubleshoot automotive relay issues?

A: If you suspect an issue with an automotive relay, you can perform some basic troubleshooting steps:
Check the relay's coil resistance using a multimeter.
Ensure the relay is receiving proper voltage supply.
Verify the continuity of the contacts when the relay is energized.
Inspect the relay socket for loose connections or corrosion.
If a relay is found to be faulty, it can usually be replaced easily by disconnecting the wiring harness and removing the old relay from its socket. Ensure you choose a replacement relay with the correct specifications for your vehicle.

Q: What is the difference between a relay and a contactor?

A: In general, both terms designate an electromechanical switching device, working on the same physical principle, where a coil is used to generate a magnetic force that mechanically operates an electric contact. While the term relays is widely used in various industries for low and medium power devices, the term contactor is more common in the high power area. The magnetic "motor" is typically realized with a plunger in the center of the coil body for contactors, as opposed to a hinged armature design, which is normally used for relays.

Q: What is car relay case labeling?

A: Some relays are marked on the case for identification purposes.
1. Voltage
A relay is marked up with 6, 12, and 24 volts.
2. Current
A relay is labeled with a current rating of 30/40 amp. Remember this current rating is for a high amperage circuit.
3. Relay Terminals
The numbers 85, 86, 30, 87, and 87a are marked on the plastic case of the relay along with circuit schematics.

Q: Do automotive relays wear out?

A: Although relays do eventually wear out after repeated use, the potential for failure can be reduced if they are replaced periodically, or you could wire two relays in parallel. If wired in parallel, one relay can fail and the other can continue to operate.

As one of the leading automotive relay manufacturers and suppliers in China, we warmly welcome you to buy high-grade automotive relay in stock here from our factory. All our products are with high quality and low price.

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