7.5 Electrical System Maintenance: Fuses
The electrical system of a vehicle is a crucial component that ensures the proper functioning of various systems, such as lighting, ignition, among others. An essential part of this system is the fuse assembly, which serves as a line of defense against electrical overloads. This chapter will cover servicing your vehicle's electrical system fuses.
Knowing the Fuses
Fuses are safety devices that protect your vehicle's electrical circuit against current overloads. They are designed to fail or "burn out" when the current flowing through them exceeds their rated capacity. When blown, the fuse stops the flow of current, protecting the circuit and preventing damage to other components or a possible fire.
Location of Fuses
Your vehicle's fuses are usually located in two fuse boxes: one in the engine compartment and one inside the vehicle. Your vehicle's owner's manual should have a diagram showing the location of each fuse box and the function of each fuse.
Fuse Maintenance
Maintaining your vehicle's fuses is a simple process that involves regularly checking and replacing blown fuses. Here are the basic steps you can follow:
Fuse Check
The first step in fuse maintenance is checking. To do this, you will need a fuse tester, which you can buy at any auto parts store. Remove the fuse from the fuse box and place the fuse tester on the fuse terminals. If the tester lights up, the fuse is good. If it doesn't light, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
Fuse Replacement
If you find that a fuse is blown, you will need to replace it. First, make sure the new fuse has the same rating as the blown fuse. Fuse capacity is indicated by the number printed on top of the fuse. Once you have the correct replacement fuse, simply insert it in place of the blown fuse.
Preventing Fuse Problems
In addition to regular maintenance, there are a few things you can do to prevent problems with your vehicle's fuses. First, always turn the vehicle off before replacing a fuse to avoid electrical shock. Second, never replace a fuse with one of greater capacity. This can allow excessive current to flow through the circuit, which can cause damage. Third, if a fuse blows repeatedly, it could indicate a more serious problem with your vehicle's electrical circuit. In that case, you should take your vehicle to a professional for a more detailed inspection.
In summary, properly maintaining your vehicle's electrical system fuses is an essential part of vehicle maintenance. By regularly checking fuses and replacing blown ones, you can help protect your vehicle's electrical system from damage and ensure it continues to function properly.
