Where can I find the fuse box in a Ford?
Most Ford vehicles have two main fuse boxes: one in the engine bay under the hood and one inside the cabin on the driver's side. Some models also include a rear fuse box in the trunk for certain circuits. The exact locations depend on the year and model, so check the owner's manual or the diagrams on the fuse box lids for precise wiring maps.
This guide explains where to look in common Ford layouts, how to access each box safely, and how to identify and replace blown fuses. It also notes model-specific quirks you should know before you start working with fuses.
Engine bay fuse box (under the hood)
Overview
The engine bay fuse box is typically a black plastic box mounted somewhere in the engine compartment. Its lid usually carries a diagram showing which fuses protect which circuits. Depending on the model, the box may be tucked near the battery, inner fender, or firewall area. If you have an engine cover, you may need to remove or lift it to access the fuse box.
The following list covers the steps to locate, inspect, and replace fuses in the engine bay fuse box.
- Park on a level surface and turn off the engine. Engage the parking brake.
- Open the hood and visually locate the engine bay fuse/relay box—usually a black rectangular unit with a labeled lid.
- Release the lid latch and lift the cover to reveal the fuse diagram and the fuses inside.
- Identify the fuse corresponding to the affected system using the diagram (for example, headlights, fuel pump, or a relay).
- Remove the suspected fuse with the fuse puller or a small pair of pliers and inspect it for a broken or burnt element.
- If the fuse is blown, replace it with a fuse of the same amperage rating. Do not exceed the rating.
- Reinstall the fuse and the cover, then test the system to confirm the fix.
- If fuses keep blowing, there may be an underlying electrical fault; seek professional diagnosis.
Concluding for this section: In most Ford models, the engine bay fuse box handles high-current circuits and should be your first stop when a power-related issue affects under-hood components. For exact location, refer to the owner’s manual or the lid diagram.
Interior cabin fuse box
Overview
The interior cabin fuse box is usually found on the driver's side, under the dashboard or knee area, or behind a small panel near the steering column. The lid or panel includes a fuse map showing which fuses protect interior systems like lights, power windows, radio, and instrumentation. Some models place the panel behind a glove-box area or under a trim panel.
The following list covers the steps to locate, inspect, and replace fuses in the interior cabin fuse box.
- With the vehicle off, locate the interior fuse box on the driver's side under the dash or behind a panel near the left of the steering column.
- Open the panel to access the fuse cover and the fuse layout diagram.
- Use the fuse puller or a small tool to lift the fuse you need to inspect.
- Check for a blown fuse by looking for a broken metal strip or testing with a multimeter.
- Replace with a fuse of the same amperage rating as indicated on the diagram.
- Reinstall the fuse panel cover and test the affected system.
Concluding for this section: The interior cabin fuse box handles many daily-use circuits. If a fuse repeatedly blows, there may be a short or an overloaded circuit that requires professional inspection.
Rear/trunk fuse box (model-specific)
Overview
Some Ford models include a fuse box in the trunk or cargo area to serve rear components or trailer wiring. The exact location varies by model and year, often tucked behind a panel on the side of the trunk or beneath a floor panel. The owner’s manual or the lid diagram will identify which fuses are housed here.
The following list covers the steps to locate, inspect, and replace fuses in the trunk/rear fuse box when present.
- Open the trunk or cargo area and locate the rear fuse box panel, usually along the sidewall or under a floor mat panel.
- Remove the panel or cover to reveal the fuse diagram and the fuses.
- Locate the fuse corresponding to the affected rear circuit (lights, power outlets, trailer wiring, etc.).
- Extract the fuse and inspect for a break or discoloration. Replace with a fuse of the same amperage rating.
- Reinstall the panel and test the rear system to confirm operation.
Concluding for this section: A trunk fuse box is not found on every Ford model. Always verify with your specific vehicle’s manual or fuse lid diagram to avoid misidentification.
Summary
For most Ford vehicles, fuse boxes are located in two primary places: the engine bay under the hood and the interior cabin on the driver's side. Some models also feature a trunk/rear fuse box for specific circuits. Always consult the owner’s manual or the fuse diagrams on the box lids to identify the exact layout for your year and model, and replace fuses with the correct amperage. If fuses repeatedly blow, seek professional assistance to diagnose electrical faults.
