how much is a brake light fuse

Automotive Fuse Characteristics and Circuit Protection

Automotive fuses are essential safety components designed to protect electrical circuits within a vehicle from overcurrent conditions. They are intentionally weak links in a circuit that will melt and break the circuit if the current exceeds a specified level, preventing damage to other components and potential fires.

Fuse Types and Construction

  • Blade Fuses (ATO/ATC, Mini, Maxi, Low Profile Mini): The most common type, featuring a plastic body with two exposed terminals and a visible element link.
  • Glass Tube Fuses (AGC, SFE): Older style fuses, encased in a glass tube with metal end caps.
  • Cartridge Fuses (PAL, JCASE): Used in high-current applications, often with a bolt-down design.
  • Fusible Links: Heavy-duty wires designed to melt under extreme overload conditions, typically used for main power circuits.

Fuse Ratings and Color Coding

Fuses are rated in amperes (A), indicating the maximum current they can safely carry. Color coding is used to quickly identify the amperage rating of blade fuses. Common color codes include:

  • Gray: 2 Amp
  • Violet: 3 Amp
  • Pink: 4 Amp
  • Orange: 5 Amp
  • Brown: 7.5 Amp
  • Red: 10 Amp
  • Blue: 15 Amp
  • Yellow: 20 Amp
  • Clear/White: 25 Amp
  • Green: 30 Amp

It is crucial to replace a blown fuse with one of the same amperage rating. Using a higher-rated fuse can bypass circuit protection and lead to significant damage or fire.

Fuse Location and Identification

Automotive fuses are typically located in fuse boxes, which are usually found in the following areas:

  • Under the dashboard
  • In the engine compartment
  • In the trunk or cargo area

Fuse box diagrams are usually printed on the inside of the fuse box cover or found in the vehicle's owner's manual. These diagrams identify the circuit protected by each fuse.

Brake Light Circuit Protection

The brake light circuit is typically protected by a dedicated fuse. A blown fuse in this circuit will cause the brake lights to fail, creating a significant safety hazard. Other components within the brake light circuit include the brake light switch, wiring, and bulbs.