How To Detect And Replace A Blown Fuse In Car

Detecting a blown fuse in car is the first step towards diagnosing a fault in your car’s system. When you replace a blown fuse in the car, not only develop your mechanic skill, you can also save yourself from the trouble of other expensive repairs.

Though every car has a different system, all modern cars have fuses. In this article, we will show you the way to find and change a blown fuse in car.

What Is A Blown Fuse In Car?

The Definition

Just like many other appliances, the purpose of fuses in cars is to protect the electrical system within. The basic components of a fuse are one fuse element and two terminals. 

And the fuse itself works as a bridge between the vehicle and the particular system. If the system is overheated, the fuse element will heat up and melt, and, eventually, the circuit will stop working.

The Consequences Of Blown Fuse In Car

A blown fuse doesn’t always indicate a severe problem; a fuse may go down for simple defects. For example, often drivers unintentionally make the system unworkable using multiple accessories at the same time.

Moreover, fuses usually don’t last that long and are subject to blowing after a certain period. Replace your car’s old one, defective fuse with another of the same rating and size.

And if you see fuses going down now and then, then it may be a sign of a more severe problem, like a short-circuit in your car’s system.

Detect A Blown Fuse In Car

In order to change these fuses, you need to locate the exact position of the fuse that malfunctioned. Just follow the fuse diagram on the fuse box cover. If there is nothing like that, go over the user’s manual.

Older cars, generally, have two fuse boxes. The first one is located under the hood. It is associated with the larger system in the car, mostly the transmission and the engine.

The second one’s position is in the passenger cabin, and it protects the remaining systems like entertainment, lights or any other accessories.

You can just use your car’s owner’s manual to locate the fuse box. The manual will also tell you about the electrical systems dependent on the fuses.

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• Car Dashboard Warning Lights Meanings All Drivers Must Know!

How To Fix A Blown Fuse In Car

Locate The Fuse Panel

There are two ways to find the fuse panel, depending on different cars. You need to check under the steering wheel where they are usually placed. If the panel is not there, drivers can check the owner’s manual.

When you see the fuse panel, take the cover out carefully to not affect the interior of the panel.

Find The Broken Fuse

After taking out the cover, a wide range of numbers, wires and buttons with different colors will be displayed. Don’t panic, keep calm and locate the fuses.

A blown fuse will usually be dark and or has a broken metal inside. Remember to carry a flashlight, you don’t want to waste your time searching the little fuse in the dark.

Replace With A New Fuse

As soon as you detect the faulty fuse, pull the receiving terminals firmly to remove it. Usually, you can dismantle a fuse using bare hands; in some cases, however, you may have to use a fuse puller tool inside the fuse box. 

You should remove any fuse with signs of clouding or residue. Now, push back the new fuse into the receiving terminals correctly.

The new fuse should have the same amperage as the last one. Never use a fuse with higher amperage than recommended.

You will end up damaging more expensive accessories, only to save a little fuse! Cars commonly use fuses with the following capacity: 30 amp, 20 amp, and 15 amp.

FAQs

1. How do I access the fuse box in my car?

To access the fuse box in your car, consult your owner’s manual for its exact location. Usually, you can open the fuse box cover by hand or using a screwdriver.

2. How do I safely remove a blown fuse?

To safely remove a blown fuse, use a pair of fuse pullers or needle-nose pliers to grip the fuse and gently pull it out. Be sure to turn off the car’s ignition before attempting to remove or replace a fuse.

3. What type of fuse should I use to replace a blown one?

It’s essential to replace a blown fuse with one of the same amperage rating. You can find this information on the fuse itself or in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

4. Can I replace a car fuse with a higher amperage fuse if I don’t have the right one?

No, you should never replace a fuse with a higher amperage rating than the original. Doing so can cause electrical damage, fires, or other serious problems. Always use the correct amperage fuse.

5. How do I install a new fuse?

To install a new fuse, simply push it into the empty fuse slot until it clicks into place. Make sure it’s seated securely.

6. What should I do if I keep blowing fuses in my car?

If you consistently blow fuses in your car, it may be a sign of an underlying electrical problem. Consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and fix the issue.

7. Can I prevent blown fuses in my car?

While you can’t prevent all blown fuses, you can minimize the risk by not overloading your vehicle’s electrical system, avoiding DIY modifications, and regularly checking and maintaining your vehicle’s electrical components.

Here is how to check if your car fuses are brown!

Remember that working with your car’s electrical system can be dangerous. So if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process of replacing a blown fuse in car, it’s best to seek professional help from a mechanic or an automotive technician.