Signs Your Car Has a Blown Fuse

If you own your car long enough, you can assume that at some point, one or more of your automotive fuses will blow.

Usually, a blown fuse just causes a minor car electrical problem, like backup lights or interior lights not working, not being able to use your radio, losing a turn signal, or some of your climate control features not functioning properly. In rare cases, though, a blown fuse can mean that your car won’t start.

Problems that cause fuses to blow

If you have multiple problems, something could be seriously wrong in your wiring harness or computer system. These are serious issues, and you won’t be able to diagnose the car problem on your own – you will have to see a mechanic. But if it’s just one thing, odds are that it’s a fuse.

All cars use fuses, and if your car has an electrical problem, it could very well be because a fuse has heated up, melted, and interrupted the flow of electricity. Sometimes, a blown fuse indicates a larger problem, but they also blow for simple reasons, like the driver overloading the system by using every available accessory at the same time. They can also blow because they’re past their “best before” date.

Fuses can also blow if someone has replaced a bad fuse with one that is of a higher amperage. The most common amperages are 15, 20 and 30, and replacing a 15 amp fuse with a 20 or 30 amp, or a 20 amp fuse with a 30 amp, may result in a blown fuse. Worse, it could cause a more severe car electrical problem, because it can cause wires to melt. Conversely, replacing a higher amp fuse with one of a lower amperage will probably not power the component that isn’t working.

If you suspect you are experiencing electrical problems with your car, a mechanic can diagnose the problem and determine if it’s a bad fuse, or something more serious.


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George

34 years of experience
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George
34 years of experience
Ford Mustang L4-2.3L - Electric Problems Inspection - Jacksonville, Florida
George was very instructive and professional. you guys should be very happy he is aboard. Will definitely use you again and refer. Shane
BMW X3 - Electric Problems - Atlantic Beach, Florida
MIRACLE WORKER!!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND GEORGE especially if you're not mechanically inclined lol. George came and restored our parking and brake lights and for that we will always defer to him before ever going to the dealership in the future. Thank you GEORGE 

Glenn

20 years of experience
86 reviews
Glenn
20 years of experience
Honda Accord L4-2.3L - Electric Problems - Fort Washington, Maryland
Great! Always on time or before! Explains everything he does and let's you know when you might want to take care of possible problems. Very kind and professional.

Jeremy

21 years of experience
802 reviews
Jeremy
21 years of experience
Volkswagen Jetta L4-1.4L Turbo Hybrid - Electric Problems - Lake Worth, Florida
Prompt, Professional, Skilled, Courteous & resolves the situation to your complete satisfaction. A Master Mechanic! Keep up the good work!

Ramiro

22 years of experience
103 reviews
Ramiro
22 years of experience
Suzuki Sidekick L4-1.6L - Electric Problems - Seattle, Washington
Ramiro is very thorough and went through all the systems to make sure that he came up with the best solution. He then explained all of the solutions to me in detail in a way that I could understand.

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