Automotive electrical connectors are specifically designed for use in automobile electrical systems. Automobile systems have undergone massive transformation and today modern systems are extensively wired and controlled by a microprocessor. This has increased the demand for high-quality and reliable wiring and electrical connectors. So, if you are selecting automotive electrical connectors for your vehicle, make sure you consider its current rating, circuit density, size of wire, voltage, configuration, and engagement force.

Fundamentals

Automotive electrical connectors can be classified into the following 4 categories as defined by the ISO standard 10487:

A Group – These are power connectors that attach the automobile’s head unit to the power supply, switches, volume controls, and special components like antennas.

B Group – These automotive electrical connectors are used for connecting the speakers of the vehicle

C Group – These are surplus electrical connectors used for connecting specialty peripherals like external amplifiers, remote control, and CD decks

D Group – These optional connectors are typically used for connecting satellite navigation systems

Other automobile systems that require electrical cable connectors include power windows, sensors, radio receivers, relays, lighting, and ignition systems.

Based on the form factor, automotive electrical connectors can be classified as:

  • Multi-pin sealed connectors that prevent the entry of environmental contaminants
  • Terminal connectors that are used for making unsoldered connections
  • Wire-to-board connectors that are used for connecting different components to the circuit board of the computer
  • Board-to-board connectors that are used for linking two different circuit boards
  • Wire-to-wire electrical connectors that are employed for connecting two cables that are wire-terminated

Crimp-Style Connections  

Crimp-style connectors are available in different sizes and efficiently house even the largest gauge of wiring. The 5 commonly used crimp-style automotive electrical connectors include:

  1. Seamless Connectors

Seamless crimp connectors are typically cut from round stock which makes them look like a tube.

  1. Seam-type Connectors

The seam-type electrical connectors are cut from flat stock. They are then rolled into the shape of a tube and have a seam that runs throughout the length of the connection.

  1. Non-insulated Connectors

These connectors have no insulation and so, once they have been crimped, they must be insulated with heat shrink tubing using a staking-type tool

  1. Insulated Connectors

Available in different sizes and types, insulated connectors can be straight or flared towards the ends. So it is important to make sure that this connector fits the insulation OD of the wire and the gauge.

  1. Heat Shrinkable Insulated Electrical Connectors

This is the best type of all automotive electrical connectors and so, they are also expensive. Being waterproof, they are perfect for marine applications and under-the-hood use.

Distribution Type Automotive Electrical Connectors

These automotive electrical connectors are essentially found in amplifiers and ignition boxes and are available in different sizes and lengths.

  1. Connectors and Plugs

Connectors and plugs are used for faster assembling and disassembling when servicing a vehicle. Electrical cable connectors make removing the dash and console easy and render your wiring the same serviceability as the rest of the automobile.

  1. AWG Wire 8

The large AWG distribution-type connectors are giant-sized and can handle extremely high currents. But when you are required to work with bigger cables for charging systems, you also need surplus electrical tools like cable cutters, crimp tool, battery clamps, distribution blocks, and a propane gas torch.

Available up to 4/0 AWG, these automotive electrical connectors are reliable for all high-current applications and can be safely used for connecting battery packs on forklifts. These connectors are crimped on their ends as they are same-sex connectors and their (+) and (-) go only one way. So, you cannot go wrong with your connections.

AWG Wire 8 and larger connectors provide a fast connection between the battery and charger in race cars. All automotive electrical connectors are typically manufactured, tested, and installed according to ISO specifications for passenger cars and road vehicles.

Need durable and reliable wire connectors and surplus electrical supplies for connecting automotive wires? Find all automotive electrical connector types at D & F Liquidator. We stock quality brands and have a fully-stocked inventory of terminal connectors and electrical cable connectors that are ready-to-ship.