An electrical component, e.g., a press-in diode, is provided, which is suited for high currents and which ensures reverse-polarity protection. The electrical component includes at least one chip which is connected via soldering layers to a lead wire and a base. In the event of a rising temperature caused by polarity reversal, the clamp-type connection between the individual parts of the electrical component, e.g., the lead wire and the base, is released since the connecting plastic sheath softens, resulting in the release of the clamp-type connection, thereby interrupting the electrical connection and thus a current flow. At normal operating temperature, the clamp-type connection between the individual parts of the diode is ensured via a plastic sheath and a plastic sleeve, with bulges of the lead wire and the base protruding into the plastic sheath, thereby making the connection particularly stable.