Fuses are used in vehicles as a circuit protection device. They contain a metal strip thick enough to allow only a certain amount of current to pass. The thicker the metal strip the more current or amperage is allowed to pass through. The thickness of this metal strip determines the fuses rating. There are different types of fuses used on vehicles including the glass cartridge, bladed, and ceramic type. Most fuses found on today's vehicles will be the bladed type. They are color coded according to the amperage rating.
When this metal strip melts the fuse must be replaced. It is important to find the reason for the blown fuse. The fuse most likely blew because of excessive current flow or circuit overload. Check the entire circuit for a short to ground.
Use the proper test light or voltage meter to check the fuses for continuity. Turn the ignition switch to the run position. Clamp the end of the test light or the negative cable of the voltage meter to a good ground close to the fuse box. Check one end of the first fuse. It should light the test light or show 12v or so on the voltage meter. Now move to the other end of the same fuse and check that tab. It should light the test light or show voltage on the meter. If it does not, remove the fuse and visually inspect. After removal, check the fuse for continuity with an ohmmeter.
When a blown fuse must be replaced always use a fuse of the same rating. Placing a fuse with a lower rating will end in a blown fuse again and replacing it with a higher rated fuse may damage the circuit and related components.
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