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Where are the fuses on my car?

The fuses on your car are typically located in one or more fuse boxes, which are designed to protect the vehicle's electrical system from overloads and short circuits. These fuse boxes are usually found in easily accessible locations, such as under the dashboard, in the engine compartment, or in the trunk.


Identifying the Fuse Box Locations


The exact location of the fuse boxes in your car can vary depending on the make, model, and year of your vehicle. However, here are some common places where you can find the fuse boxes:



  • Under the dashboard, on the driver's side or passenger's side

  • In the engine compartment, often near the battery or on the firewall

  • In the trunk, sometimes located in the side panel or behind a cover


Consult your car's owner's manual or look for a diagram or label inside the fuse box cover to identify the specific location of the fuse boxes in your vehicle.


Accessing the Fuse Boxes


Once you've located the fuse boxes, you'll need to access them to inspect or replace the fuses. This typically involves removing a cover or panel, which may be secured with screws or clips. Be careful when handling the fuse box, as the electrical components can be delicate.


Identifying and Replacing Fuses


The fuses in your car are usually labeled with the electrical component they protect, such as the headlights, radio, or windshield wipers. If a fuse has blown, it will need to be replaced with a new fuse of the same amperage rating. Consult your owner's manual or the fuse box diagram to ensure you're using the correct replacement fuse.


Remember, it's important to diagnose and address the underlying issue that caused the fuse to blow, rather than just replacing the fuse. Repeated fuse failures may indicate a more serious electrical problem that should be addressed by a qualified mechanic.

Where are fuses located in a car?


Fuses in a car are typically found in two main locations: under the hood in a compartment near the battery for engine-related systems, and inside the cabin under the dashboard or in the glove box for interior electronics like the radio and power windows. The exact locations can vary by vehicle, so the owner's manual is the best place to find the precise locations for your car.
 
This video explains the location of fuse boxes in a car: 59sCars SimplifiedYouTube · Sep 5, 2020
Inside the cabin

  • Location: Most commonly found on the driver's side, either under the dashboard, near the steering column, or sometimes in the glove box. 
  • Function: Protects circuits for interior systems like lights, radio, power windows, and power locks. 
  • Access: You may need to remove a panel or a cover to access the fuse box. 

Under the hood
  • Location: Usually a black or gray plastic box located near the battery or the firewall. 
  • Function: Protects engine-related components such as the fuel pump, cooling fan, and engine control unit (ECU). 
  • Access: The cover may have tabs that need to be pressed to release it. 

Other possible locations
  • Some vehicles may have a smaller fuse box in the trunk, especially older models.
  • Certain luxury or classic cars may have fuse boxes in different locations, such as under the rear seat. 

How to find the exact location
  • Consult your car's owner's manual for the most accurate information on your vehicle's specific fuse box locations and diagrams. 



How can I tell if a fuse is blown in my car?


You can tell a fuse is blown by first seeing what electrical components aren't working, like lights or wipers, and then visually inspecting the fuse for a broken or melted wire inside. You can also use a tool like a multimeter or a test light to check for a lack of power or continuity.
 
This video demonstrates how to check for a blown fuse using a multimeter: 1mRevive My RideYouTube · Jan 3, 2022
Common signs of a blown fuse

  • Malfunctioning components: A non-working part is a primary indicator. This could be anything from power windows, door locks, or the radio to headlights, taillights, or windshield wipers.
  • Dashboard warning: Some modern cars will display a "CHECK FUSES" message on the dashboard.
  • Burning smell: A faint burning smell, especially of plastic, can indicate a blown fuse.
  • Flickering lights: Lights that are flickering or working intermittently can be a sign of a failing fuse. 

How to physically check a fuse
  1. Locate the fuse box: Consult your owner's manual to find the fuse box, which is often under the dashboard on the driver's side, but can also be under the hood or in the trunk. 
  2. Remove the fuse: Once you've identified the fuse, use a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers to remove it. Be sure to turn the vehicle off first. 
  3. Visually inspect the fuse: Look at the metal wire inside the clear plastic. 
    • Blown: If the wire is broken or has a visible gap, the fuse is blown. 
    • Blown: If there is a dark or metallic smear inside the glass, it is also blown. 
  4. Test with a tool (optional): If the fuse looks good or you can't see a break, use a multimeter or test light to check it without removing it. 
    • Multimeter: Set it to continuity mode. Touch the probes to each metal terminal on the fuse. A good fuse will beep, while a blown one will not. 
    • Test light: With the car on, touch the test light to each terminal on the fuse. A good fuse will have power on both sides, while a blown fuse will only have power on one side. 

You can watch this video to see how to test fuses with a test light: 56sBaldwin's Bowtie GarageYouTube · Jan 3, 2023



How to access interior fuse box?


But if you look on the back of the cover it'll show you what every fuse is and what it. Does what the amperage. Is. And what it controls.



Will AutoZone help with fuses?


Yes, AutoZone sells fuses and can help you find the correct replacement, but they do not perform the labor of replacing them. They can help you find the right fuse by rating, size, and style, and a staff member can offer guidance. While some associates may assist with simple tasks like changing a bulb if it's easy to access, replacing a fuse is a job for the customer to do themselves. 

  • Finding the right fuse: AutoZone sells a wide variety of fuses, and associates can help you identify the correct one for your vehicle. You can also bring the old fuse with you to match it to a new one. 
  • Replacing the fuse: AutoZone is a retail parts store, not a repair shop, so they do not perform the service of installing the fuse for you. You will need to replace the fuse yourself. 
  • Other related services: AutoZone does offer free diagnostic services, such as testing your battery, alternator, and starter, but replacing a fuse is not a service they provide. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.