Detecting and Fixing Blown Fuses in Your Car

Ever spent hundreds of dollars at a mechanic for some electrical mishap in your car? Ever wonder if you got ripped off? Chances are, you may have. Many people report electrical problems in their car, like their electrical devices aren't getting power. CD players won't work, lights won't work, or blinkers won't work. However, some people don't know that it probably doesn't need an electrical overhaul to the tune of $300. It could be as simple as a blown fuse. A blown fuse could be the root of several different problems, and it could only cost around $1-2 for 5-10 fuses.

First you need to understand how the fuse works. A fuse is a bridge from the power source to the object being powered. Generally, it leads to several different powered objects. For example, one fuse in your car's fuse box could channel power to your blinkers, headlights, and brake lights with one fuse. The fuse has one other job than to channel power. A fuse can only hold a certain amount of power before blowing. This is to protect the objects being powered. If a power surge flies through a circuit with no fuse, it will surge into the object itself. This works on the same principle as a surge protector. A surge protector protects objects plugged into it from lightning strikes and power surges. When a power surge runs through the fuse, it blows without allowing the excess power to fly into your CD player, which would not stand up to the power. A fuse is simply a failsafe against extra power. When this fuse blows, the circuit is incomplete, and the object will not receive power.