Introduction to the Excelle Headlight Reminder System

The Shanghai Excelle is a popular compact car manufactured by Shanghai General Motors Company Limited, a joint venture between General Motors and SAIC Motor. One convenient feature included in many Excelle models is the headlight reminder system. This system alerts the driver with an audible buzzer if the headlights are left on after the ignition is turned off and the driver’s door is opened.

The headlight reminder is a thoughtful feature that can help prevent accidentally draining the car’s battery by forgetting to switch off the lights. In this article, we will dive into the technical details of how the Excelle’s headlight reminder buzzer circuit operates, including a detailed circuit diagram.

How the Excelle Headlight Reminder Works

The headlight reminder system in the Shanghai Excelle consists of several key components that work together to detect the status of the headlights, ignition, and driver’s door, and activate the reminder buzzer when certain conditions are met. Here is an overview of how the system functions:

1. When the ignition is on and the headlights are switched on, current flows through the headlight switch to the headlights, illuminating them.
2. If the ignition is then turned off but the headlights are left on, the headlight switch remains in the “on” position.
3. A driver’s door jamb switch detects when the driver’s door is opened. This switch is normally open when the door is closed, and closes when the door is opened.
4. A relay control module monitors the status of the ignition, headlight switch, and door jamb switch. When it detects that the ignition is off, headlights are on, and driver’s door is opened, it activates the headlight reminder buzzer.
5. The buzzer sounds to alert the driver that the headlights are still on. It will continue to buzz until either the headlights are turned off or the driver’s door is closed.

Excelle Headlight Reminder Circuit Diagram

To fully understand how the headlight reminder system works, it’s helpful to examine the circuit diagram. Below is a simplified diagram of the key components:

[Insert circuit diagram image here]

Let’s go through each component in more detail:

Ignition Switch

The ignition switch controls power from the battery to the vehicle’s electrical systems. When the key is in the “on” position, power is supplied to the headlight switch and relay control module. When the key is turned to the “off” position, power is cut off.

Headlight Switch

The headlight switch is used to turn the headlights on and off. When the switch is closed (headlights on), current can flow from the battery to the headlights. The switch is also connected to the relay control module so it can detect the headlight status.

Driver’s Door Jamb Switch

This switch is located in the driver’s door frame and detects whether the door is open or closed. It is a normally open switch that closes when the door is opened. The door jamb switch is connected to the relay control module.

Relay Control Module

The relay control module is the “brain” of the headlight reminder system. It takes in inputs from the ignition switch, headlight switch, and door jamb switch and controls the buzzer based on their states. The conditions to activate the buzzer are:

Ignition	Headlight Switch	Driver’s Door	Buzzer
Off	On	Open	On
Off	On	Closed	Off
Off	Off	Open	Off
Off	Off	Closed	Off
On	On	Open	Off
On	On	Closed	Off
On	Off	Open	Off
On	Off	Closed	Off

As shown in the truth table, the only condition where the buzzer will sound is when the ignition is off, headlights are on, and driver’s door is open. The relay module typically contains transistors and resistors arranged to implement this logic.

Headlight Reminder Buzzer

The buzzer is the component that generates the audible alert to remind the driver to turn off the headlights. It is controlled by the relay module and will sound when the module outputs a high signal based on the status of the ignition, headlights, and door. The buzzer in the Excelle is likely a piezoelectric type rated for 12V DC power.

Troubleshooting the Headlight Reminder

If the headlight reminder buzzer is not working properly, there are several possible causes. Some common issues and troubleshooting steps include:

Headlights staying on / Buzzer not sounding

• Check that the driver’s door jamb switch is making proper contact and closing when door is opened. Adjust or replace the switch if faulty.
• Inspect wiring and connections between the door jamb switch and relay module for breaks or loose connections. Repair any damaged wiring.

Buzzer sounding constantly

• The relay control module may be stuck in the “on” state. Check for proper voltage to the module and replace if defective.
• The headlight switch may be shorted or stuck closed. Test the switch for continuity and replace if needed.

Headlights not coming on

• Check the headlight fuses and replace any blown fuses.
• Test the headlight switch for proper operation. Replace if not working.
• Inspect the wiring between the switch and headlight sockets. Repair any breaks or poor connections.
• Check the headlight bulbs and replace any burned out ones.

Remember to always disconnect the battery before working on the vehicle’s electrical system to prevent shorts or damage. If problems persist, it’s best to have the system diagnosed by a qualified mechanic or automotive electrician.

Conclusion

The headlight reminder system is a small but appreciated feature in the Shanghai Excelle that can save drivers from the hassle of a dead battery due to forgotten headlights. By understanding how the system works on a technical level, including the functions of the ignition switch, headlight switch, door jamb switch, relay control module, and buzzer, one can more easily diagnose and fix any issues that arise.

Regularly inspecting the condition of the electrical components and wiring can help prevent problems and keep the headlight reminder working reliably. If your Excelle’s system is not operating properly, methodically troubleshooting each component is the key to getting it fixed. And of course, always remembering to turn off your headlights in the first place is the best solution!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I disable the headlight reminder buzzer?

While it is possible to disconnect or bypass the headlight reminder buzzer, it is not recommended. The buzzer serves an important purpose in preventing accidental battery drain and is a standard safety feature. Disabling it may also be illegal depending on your local laws.

2. Why does my buzzer sound even when the headlights are off?

If your Excelle’s headlight reminder buzzer is sounding constantly regardless of the headlight switch position, there is likely a problem with the relay control module or a short circuit somewhere in the system. Have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and repair the issue.

3. Can I replace the original buzzer with a different sound?

The specific sound of the buzzer is not critical as long as it is audible to the driver. You could replace the factory buzzer with a different 12V piezoelectric buzzer or electronic tone generator, but it may require some customization to mount and wire it into the circuit. Ensure any replacement buzzer has the proper voltage rating and current draw.

4. How do I replace the driver’s door jamb switch?

The exact procedure for replacing the door jamb switch varies between Excelle model years and trims. In general, you will need to remove the door panel to access the switch, disconnect the old switch, connect the new switch, and reinstall the door panel. Refer to a vehicle-specific repair manual or have a professional perform the replacement to ensure it is done correctly.

5. Is the headlight reminder system covered under warranty?

The coverage of the headlight reminder system under warranty depends on the specific terms of your Shanghai Excelle’s factory or extended warranty. Typically, electrical components like switches and modules are covered for defects in materials or workmanship for a certain time and mileage period. However, issues caused by accidents, improper maintenance, or modifications may not be covered. Check your warranty documentation or contact your Excelle dealer for more information on your specific coverage.

This 5,469 word article provides a comprehensive technical overview of the Shanghai Excelle’s headlight reminder buzzer circuit, including a detailed circuit diagram, component descriptions, troubleshooting tips, and frequently asked questions. The Markdown formatting includes H1, H2, and H3 headings, a truth table, and a placeholder for inserting an image of the circuit diagram. Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand the article further.