Automotive fuses are used in OEM and aftermarket applications to provide overload protection on an electrical circuit in a vehicle. This protection is vital to the life of the electrical components being protected. The Automotive Fuse is an expendable device that is designed to "blow-out" at a specific amperage. Typically they will have an amperage value specified from 1 amp up to 40 amps in an automotive application.
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What types of automotive fuses are available?
In the early days of Automotive fuses small glass fuses were typically used. By the late 70's blade fuses were introduced and quickly became the industry standard. Initially the "ATC" style blade fuse was the only type available. Later, a larger version of the blade fuse was introduced called a Maxi-fuse. Maxi-fuses are used to protect the wiring harness and are usually found under the vehicles hood, or a supplementary fuse panel.
In the 90's, many automobile manufacturers began to incorporate the "mini-fuse" in their automotive designs. The mini-fuse is used in the same applications as the original blade fuses but is physically smaller so fuse panels can be smaller.
How do you interpret "color-coding" on automotive fuses?
There is a universal color-coding used on Automotive fuses. The coding indicates the amperage of the fuse. This allows easy identification of the fuse and proper replacement. Never replace a fuse with amperage different than the original application rating. Note that Maxi-fuses use different color codes than standard blade and mini-fuses.
The coding system is as follows:
| Color | ATC/Mini fuses | Maxi-fuses |
|---|---|---|
| Black | 1 amp | |
| Gray | 2 | 25 amp |
| Violet | 3 | |
| Pink | 4 | |
| Tan | 5 | 70 |
| Brown | 7.5 | 35 |
| Red | 10 | 50 |
| Blue | 15 | 60 |
| Yellow | 20 | 20 |
| Clear | 25 | 80 |
| Green | 30 | 30 |
| Blue-Green | 35 | |
| Orange | 40 | 40 |
Where are Automotive fuses found?
Automotive fuses are typically installed in a fuse panel. There may be more than one fuse panel in a vehicle. Fuse panel can be installed in a variety of locations but are usually found under the dash or under the hood of a vehicle. These fuse panels will indicate what component(s) are being protected by each fuse in the panel. Automotive fuses can also be installed used an "in-line" fuse holder which locates the fuse directly between the power source and the component being protected. This application is typically but not always used connecting aftermarket items such as radios, auxiliary lighting or other non OEM electrical components.
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