Circuit Protection - Fuses

Special Tools

EL 39200Digital Multimeter (DMM)

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

The fuse is the most common method of an automotive wiring circuit protection. Whenever there is an excessive amount of current flowing through a circuit the fusible element will melt and create an open or incomplete circuit. Fuses are a one time protection device and must be replaced each time the circuit is overloaded. To determine if a fuse is open, remove the suspected fuse and examine if the element in the fuse is broken (2). If not broken (1), also check for continuity using a Digital Multimeter (DMM) or a continuity tester. If the element is broken or continuity is suspect, replace the fuse with one of equal current rating.

Fuse Types

Current Rating Amperes	Color
Auto Fuses, Mini Fuses
2	Gray
3	Violet
5	Tan
7.5	Tan
10	Red
15	Blue
20	Yellow
25	White or Natural
30	Green
Maxi Fuses
20	Yellow
30	Light Green
40	Orange or Amber
60	Blue
50	Red
J-Case Fuses
20	Blue
30	Pink
40	Green
50	Red
60	Yellow