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Where is the fuse box on a 2016 Lexus RX350?

The fuse boxes on a 2016 Lexus RX 350 are located in two places: one in the engine compartment and another inside the cabin.


In practice, the engine bay box covers most power circuits and is accessed from the front of the vehicle, while the interior box handles many cabin and dash-related circuits and is reached from inside the car, typically near the driver's side under-dash area. Both lids carry diagrams to identify each fuse’s function and rating.


Engine compartment fuse box


Location and access


The primary engine compartment fuse box is located in the engine bay, usually toward the passenger side near the firewall. Look for a rectangular black lid labeled FUSE BOX; it is held in place by clips and can be opened by lifting the tab or removing the cover.


Before opening, ensure the engine is off and the key is out of the ignition. Wear eye protection if you’ll be handling fuses close to hot components. The inside of the lid has a diagram showing fuse numbers, amperage, and the circuits they protect.



  • Pop the hood and locate the fuse box: it is a rectangular plastic box with a removable lid.

  • Release the clips and lift the lid to reveal the fuse map and the fuses themselves.

  • Identify which fuse you need by referencing the diagram on the lid or the inside of the cover.

  • Use the correct rated fuse for replacement; common automotive fuses are 7.5A, 10A, 15A, 20A, etc., depending on the circuit.

  • Gently pull out the blown fuse with a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers, then insert a new fuse of the same rating and reseat the cap.


Concluding: Replacing a blown engine-fuse is usually quick, but if the new fuse blows again, there may be a short or other electrical issue that requires professional inspection.


Interior fuse box


Location and access


The interior fuse box is located inside the cabin, typically on the driver's side under the dashboard or behind a small access panel near the knee area. Access is gained by removing the lid or panel to reveal the fuse layout.


As with the engine box, the inside lid bears a diagram showing fuse numbers, amperage, and the circuits they protect. Ensure the vehicle is off before opening the panel and removing any fuses.



  • Open the interior panel on the driver’s side under-dash area or remove the lower dash cover as needed.

  • Inspect the fuse diagram on the inside of the lid to locate the circuit you’re checking.

  • Carefully pull the suspect fuse straight out with a fuse puller or pliers.

  • Replace with a fuse of the same amperage rating and reinsert fully.

  • Test the affected systems to confirm restoration of function.


Concluding: If interior fuses continue to blow after replacement, or if multiple circuits fail, a professional electrical diagnostic is recommended to identify wiring faults or short circuits.


Safety and best practices


Always consult the owner’s manual or the diagram on the fuse box cover for exact fuse ratings and circuit mapping, as amperage and layout can vary by trim and production year. Replacing fuses with incorrect ratings can cause damage or fire hazards. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with handling fuses, seek assistance from a qualified technician.


Summary


For a 2016 Lexus RX 350, expect two fuse boxes: one in the engine compartment and one inside the cabin. Access the engine bay box with the hood open and use the diagram on the lid to identify fuses, then replace with the same amperage. Access the interior box from the driver's side under-dash area, follow the diagram, and replace fuses accordingly. If fuses repeatedly blow, or if you’re uncertain about the process, contact a professional mechanic to diagnose potential wiring faults or short circuits.

Where is the fuse box for a Lexus?


To access it you'll have to remove. This plastic cover underneath for this I'll have to press these small tabs and pull down at the same time and this cover will come off.



Where is the inside fuse box located?


The interior fuse box is typically located under the steering column on the driver's side of the vehicle's dashboard. It may be behind a panel that needs to be pulled down or have a cover that you need to remove. Some vehicles may also place it under the glove box or in the luggage compartment. 
This video shows where to find the fuse box in a car: 56sCars FuseYouTube · Sep 8, 2023

  • Most common location: Under the steering column, on the driver's side of the dashboard. 
  • How to access: You may need to remove a small panel or coin holder to find it. 
  • Other possibilities: Some models place it under the glove box or in the luggage compartment. 
  • For specific models: Always consult your owner's manual for the exact location of the fuse box in your vehicle. 

You can also watch this video to learn how to open and access the fuse box: 1mExpertVillage Leaf GroupYouTube · Nov 19, 2007



Where is the fuse box in a Lexus RX 350?


The Lexus RX 350 has two fuse boxes: one is located under the hood on the driver's side, and the other is in the cabin under the steering column on the driver's side. The under-hood box contains engine-related fuses, while the interior box holds fuses for accessories like the radio and power outlets.
 
This video shows the location of the interior fuse box on a Lexus RX 350: 55sD BarkmanYouTube · May 8, 2021
Under the hood fuse box

  • Location: In the engine compartment on the driver's side, near the battery. 
  • Access: It is a black box with clips. You will need to release four clips to open it. 
  • Contents: Contains fuses for engine-related components. For example, the ETCS (Electronic Throttle Control System) fuse is located here, as shown in this YouTube video. 

Interior fuse box
  • Location: On the driver's side, under the dashboard, below the steering column. 
  • Access: The cover can be removed by pulling on a front tab or by using a flathead screwdriver to carefully pop it open, as demonstrated in this YouTube video. 
  • Contents: Contains fuses for various accessories, such as the radio, power outlets, and other interior systems. 

You can watch this video to see how to remove the fuse panel cover on the interior fuse box: 55sRams to the RescueYouTube · May 8, 2023



What is the most common problem with Lexus RX 350?


The most common problem with the Lexus RX 350 is a massive oil leak, specifically from the VVT-i oil line, which can lead to rapid oil loss and potential engine failure, especially in older models like the 2010. Other frequent issues include faulty rain sensors, especially in newer models, resulting in wipers that malfunction randomly. Older model years (2007 and 2010) also show a tendency for airbag warning lights and transmission problems, while some 2016 models experienced rough shifting and transmission issues.
 
This video discusses the 2013 Lexus RX 350's common problems, including oil leaks and other issues: 55scar PROblemsYouTube · Jun 26, 2022
Engine and oil leaks 

  • VVT-i oil line leak: This is a recurring issue, particularly in older models like the 2010, where the oil line can burst, causing significant oil loss and potential engine damage if not addressed immediately. 
  • Check Engine light: This can be triggered by various engine issues, including problems with the variable valve timing system. 

Electrical and sensor problems 
  • Rain sensor malfunction: Both older and newer models have reported issues with the rain-sensing wipers not functioning correctly or stopping randomly. 
  • Airbag warning light: This has been reported across several model years, often linked to codes B0111 and B0116 due to issues like faulty sensors or a depleted airbag backup battery. 
  • Infotainment system issues: Problems like malfunctioning touchscreens, unresponsive climate controls, and other glitches have been reported, particularly in recent years. 

Transmission and drivetrain issues
  • Rough shifting: Some models, such as the 2016, have been reported to have delayed gear shifts and a lack of smoothness.
  • Transmission failure: In the 2016 model year, transmission problems were significant enough to cause concerns about long-term reliability. 

Other potential problems
  • Spontaneously shattering sunroofs: Though rare, this has been reported in some model years and is a significant safety concern. 
  • Body integrity issues: Some older models, such as the 2010, have experienced body-related issues like rattling doors. 
  • Steering mechanism leaks: These can be costly to repair. 


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.