What is a high-resistance connection and why is it a problem?

A high-resistance connection occurs when there is an unintended increase in the resistance at a connection point in an electrical circuit, such as a terminal, connector, or solder joint. This increased resistance acts as a barrier to the flow of electricity, which can significantly inhibit current flow. When current is restricted, it can create a situation where the electrical components do not receive the necessary voltage and current to operate effectively.

Moreover, as current flows through this high-resistance connection, it generates heat due to the resistance itself, a phenomenon described by Joule's law. If the resistance is high enough, this heat can build up over time, potentially leading to overheating. Such overheating can cause damage to the components or the wiring insulation, leading to failures in the circuit and even posing safety hazards, such as electrical fires.

Maintaining low-resistance connections is crucial for ensuring efficient current flow, thus promoting optimal performance and reliability in automotive electrical systems.