Signs and Steps to Check for a Blown Fuse
Author: Toby Date Posted:28 February 2025
Fuses protect your car's electrical system. They’re designed to interrupt current flow in case of an overload, preventing damage to components and reducing the risk of fire. Without them, even a minor electrical fault could turn into a costly repair or a safety hazard.
But how can you check if a fuse is already blown, and how do you replace it? You don’t need to be a mechanic to figure it out. Here’s a simple guide on how to spot blown fuses and what to do next.
Signs of a Blown Fuse
Fuses are essentially your car’s electrical safety switch. If there’s a power surge, the fuse blows to stop the extra current from damaging important parts of your car.
Common signs include:
- Stereo, wipers, or power windows suddenly stop working
- Car system loses power completely
- Lights start flickering or dimming
Blown fuses can sometimes be mistaken for other electrical issues, so double-checking is always a good idea. But if any of this sounds familiar, it’s time to check the fuses.
Checking Your Car Fuses
Step 1: Find the Fuse Box
Most cars have two fuse boxes. One is under the dashboard on the driver’s side, and the other is under the bonnet near the battery. Your car’s manual will show you exactly where.
Once you find it, pop it open. You’ll see rows of colourful fuses in different sizes. The layout might look confusing, but don’t worry—there’s usually a diagram to help.
Step 2: Spot the Suspect Fuse
Check the diagram on the fuse box cover or in your manual. It’ll show you which fuse controls what. For example, if your radio’s out, look for the fuse labeled “RADIO” or “AUDIO.” If the diagram isn’t clear, try Googling your car’s make and model to find more detailed information.
Step 3: Take the Fuse Out
Pull the fuse out to inspect it. Your car might have a small fuse puller inside the fuse box; if not, use a pair of tweezers or needle-nose pliers. Be gentle to avoid damaging the fuse or its holder.
Step 4: Check the Fuse
Now it’s time to see how to tell if a fuse is blown. Hold it up to the light and look at the metal strip inside. If the strip is broken or melted, the fuse is blown. Some fuses have a little window that turns black when they’re blown.
If you’re still unsure, grab a multimeter. Set it to continuity mode, touch the probes to each end of the fuse, and see if it’s working. No continuity means the fuse is blown. This method is especially handy if you’re dealing with tiny or hard-to-see fuses.
Step 5: Swap It Out
If the fuse is blown, replace it with one of the same type and amperage. Using the wrong amperage can cause bigger problems down the track, so double-check before you pop it in. The amperage rating is usually printed on the fuse itself.
Step 6: Test It
With the new fuse in place, switch on the component that wasn’t working. Whether it’s your radio, lights, or windows, it should be back to normal now. If it still doesn’t work, double-check your replacement fuse to ensure it’s seated properly.
Other Handy Tips
- Carry spares: Keep a few extra fuses in your glove box. They’re cheap and can save you a headache on the road.
- Know your ratings: Check your manual to get familiar with the amperage ratings for your car’s fuses. It’ll make it easier to pick the right replacement.
- Regular checks: If you’ve been having electrical issues, inspect your fuses every now and then to spot any potential problems early.
- Don’t ignore warnings: If a fuse keeps blowing, don’t just keep replacing it—investigate the root cause.
- DIY with care: While replacing a fuse is easy, always make sure the car’s ignition is off to avoid any accidents.
- Keep tools handy: A small toolkit with a fuse puller or pliers can make the job even easier.
High-Quality Fuses from Superspres
Knowing how to check if a fuse is blown can save you time, money, and frustration. It’s a quick fix that gets your car’s systems back up and running.
So now that you know how to tell if a fuse is blown, you’ve got one less thing to worry about next time your car’s electrics play up.
If you ever need new fuses, browse our range of automotive fuses for reliable replacements. Need assistance? Our lines are open at 1300 791 058 if you’re in need of expert advice.
