Automotive Tips

How Car Fuses Work

Usually, something will quit working to indicate that a fuse has blown. For example, it could be the turn signals, the backup lights or some other electrically-powered component.  The solution is to replace the blown-out fuse.

fuses

During the time of owning a car, there is a chance that a fuse will blow out.  You’ll know when this occurs because a device or component in your vehicle will not work, like in your apartment when you suddenly cannot turn on a light and figure out the plug is the problem.  According to this Chevrolet Dealership of Exton, PA, engineers make vehicles like this to prevent possible engine fires. 

 

Two Types of Fuses

 

In general, many cars have two types of fuses. Old cars have glass, tube-like fuses with glass in the center stainless steel caps on the ends.  These kinds of fuses were what drivers had in new vehicles 20 or so years ago, but they are rare now.  Modern-day vehicles have a fuse style that uses a colored plastic housing with a fusible link encased in the housing.  Conduct an internet search for these two different types of fuses to see photos of them!

 

Which Fuse Has Gone Out?

 

If you think a fuse may be the issue when something stops functioning, the first step is to locate the fuse and see if it’s blown. Now, we realize that this could be tricky. However, your owner’s manual can help you find the fuse box and once you have found it, you must determine the fuse that needs to be removed for inspection.

 

Say, for example, the interior lights do not work. The owner’s manual will typically have a chart to show you the fuse that protects your interior lights.  Once you’ve identified this fuse, you must see if it’s failed, and this is usually easy.  If the metal link inside the fuse is separated, the fuse is “blown”.  If not, then it’s still good and can be reinstalled.  

 

Is a Replacement Required?

 

If you have a blown fuse, find a replacement. A few cars come with a spare supply, but otherwise you will need to make a quick trip to the auto parts store to purchase some. One important element to fuse replacement is using the same amperage rating as your blown fuse.  See, if you examine the fuse’s top, you will see a number, which is the fuse’s Amperage Rating.  You need to always keeping extra fuses in your glove box!

 

Installing a New Fuse

 

So, once you found out the fuse blew and you have provided yourself with a replacement, it’s time to put in the new one. Do not worry, as it is quite an easy process. We recommend checking online for a video to go with these short instructions:

 

Once you have taken the fuse out, putting the new fuse in is the easy part although perhaps a fuse puller (which usually comes in the fuse box) will help you. Put in your new fuse, start up your car and see if the new device works.  If it does not, you likely have other problems to solve as well and it may be best to have a mechanic look at it. But, you can head to him or her to begin with if that is what you feel more comfortable doing.

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