Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) A6 Electrical/Electronic SystemsGeneral Electrical/Electronic System DiagnosisEasy

A technician is using service information to troubleshoot an intermittent issue with a vehicle's horn. The wiring diagram shows a 'C103' designation next to a connector. What does 'C103' most likely represent?

  1. AA component reference for the horn relay.
  2. BThe wire gauge of the horn circuit.
  3. CThe specific color code of the wire.
  4. DA connector identification number.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D. A connector identification number.

In automotive wiring diagrams, 'C' typically denotes a connector, and the following numbers ('103' in this case) are unique identifiers for that specific connector. This helps technicians locate the physical connector in the vehicle.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Component references often use abbreviations like 'RLY' for relay or specific component names.
  • B. Wire gauge is usually indicated by a number (e.g., 18 ga) or size, not a 'C' prefix.
  • C. Color codes are typically abbreviations (e.g., 'RD' for red, 'BK' for black).

Wiring Diagram Connector ID

Wiring diagrams use specific alphanumeric designations to identify connectors, helping technicians locate and test them in the vehicle.

  • Commonly starts with 'C' for connector.
  • Followed by a unique number.
  • Often includes pin numbers for individual wires.

Memory trick: C marks the spot where wires connect, a number makes it perfect to detect.

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