Electrical Query

[Beagler]

Just had my new Audi Q5 factory towbar plug wired for the fridge as it came without the pins present and the dealer has paid for the additional work. When I connect the car to caravan without the engine running I can check the voltage in the caravan using its Meter, all the internal lights work and the external road lights. Obviously the fridge doesnt work.
When I run the engine the road lights and the fridge works but the meter in the caravan does not register nor do the internal 12v lights work. Switch the car off and 12v system is back.

Is this normal?

 

[Jaydug]

Yes - it is normal. Once the engine starts and the relay switches for the fridge power, the habitation relay in the caravan also switches the 12volt power off.

 

[Beagler]

Yes - it is normal. Once the engine starts and the relay switches for the fridge power, the habitation relay in the caravan also switches the 12volt power off.

Thank You Jaydug for your prompt answer. I was worried my electrical system had a fault. I've never noticed this before and I've had the van since 2009. I was going to ring the towbar company that carried out the work on Monday but you've put my mind at rest and I am very grateful.