What To Look for When Purchasing Electrical Connectors

Purchasing automotive electrical connectors is far from a simple shopping experience. With an array of types, sizes, and qualities available on the market, it becomes crucial to make an informed decision to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your automotive equipment. Delve into the things to look for when purchasing electrical connectors for vehicles. 

Number of Pins

Although we often refer to this piece as a "pigtail connector," it can have more than two pins. Automotive connectors come with different pin configurations, ranging from 2-pin to over 100-pin varieties. The number of pins determines the data or power the connector can carry. 

Anytime you replace an automotive connector, count the number of pins and wires running through the component. You can use a connector with more pins than wires, but never the opposite; each wire must run through the corresponding pin. 

Shape of Connector

Connectors come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific purposes. It's essential to know the connector shape you need based on the automobile you'll use it with. Some common shapes include circular, rectangular, flat, triangular, and square connectors. 

Each shape has unique features and functions that make it suitable for certain applications within a vehicle. For example, one vehicle may use a circular 6-pin electrical connector for its headlights, while another may use rectangular connectors with the same number of pins for its trailer lights. 

Pro Tip

To know the exact shape you need, look at the connector in your car and match it with the replacement. Review it from all angles, as some shapes may look similar but have subtle differences that can cause compatibility issues.

Color of Connector

Another thing to look for when purchasing electrical connectors is the color of the connector. While this may seem trivial, it can be crucial in ensuring compatibility and easy identification. Many automotive manufacturers have color-coded their connectors to indicate their function or placement within the vehicle. 

Connector Quality

While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper, off-brand connectors, buying genuine original equipment manufacturer (OEM) products is always best. Manufacturers design and test OEM connectors to meet the specific requirements of your device, ensuring optimal performance and longevity. Not only do they guarantee a perfect fit, but they also provide peace of mind with their warranty coverages.

Order Top-Quality Connectors

Purchasing electrical connectors is a task that demands careful consideration and scrutiny. At Connector Experts, we carry authentic OEM connectors in pin amounts ranging from 1 to over 70.

We depict each product from all angles and allow you to search by vehicle make, model, and year to ensure you find the perfect one. Trust us to provide reliable, high-quality connectors to keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.