How to replace a fuse in a 2001 Honda Accord

Fuses are used in many different electrical systems (including in automobiles) to prevent major problems if something should go wrong.  If too much current is sent across a wire, it could destroy electrical components or start a fire.  When fuses are used, if an excessive current passes through a fuse, the fuse will blow, severing the circuit and keeping the components that rely on the fuse safe.

Every now and then a fuse in your car might blow, causing a component to not work.  Fuses often radios, windshield wipers, and other non-engine components.  To replace a bad fuse in a 2001 Honda Accord, follow the steps below.

1. Open the hood

Pull the hood release lever, located below the steering wheel and to the left.  This lever has a picture of a car with a raised hood on it -- pull it out, toward you, to release the hood.

Get out of the car and stand in front of it.  Lift up on the hood.  It should raise an inch or two.  There is a latch under the front of the hood, near the middle of the car.  Feel around for this latch and then pull on it to release the hood.  Push the hood up so you can see under it.

There is a long metal rod lying across the front frame of the car with a white plastic tip.  Pull this rod up and insert it into the hole on the underside of the hood on the right side, about halfway between the center of the hood and the right edge.  This rod will keep the hood from falling while you are working.

2. Locate and open the fuse box

The fuse box will be in the rear left corner of the engine compartment, as you're standing in front of the car.  It is a black plastic box, and on the top of the box is a diagram of the fuses contained inside.  Remove the fuse box top by pressing on the two tabs on the front of the box and then pulling the top up and out.  (You may have to slide the top forward a little before it can be pulled all the way out.)

3. Pull the old fuse

Inside the fuse box you'll see all sorts of different fuses and relays.  Locate the bad fuse and remove it from the fuse box by pulling it straight up.  (Be sure the engine is off first.)  A fuse puller can make the job easier, but a pair of needle-nose pliers can work too.

4. Install the new fuse

Set the new fuse into the hole left by the old fuse.  It should fit right into place.  If you're using pliers, be sure not to squeeze too hard so you don't crack the fuse.

5. Close everything up and test the fuse

Put the fuse box lid back on, rear side first, and then push it closed so that the two tabs in front snap into place.  Remove the stay bar from the hole in the hood and lay it back across the car's frame, popping it back into the clamp that holds it.  Then let the hood drop and make sure it's latched.

Start the car and turn on the component that wasn't working because of the bad fuse.  It should work now.  If it doesn't, turn the car off and then check the fuse to make sure you inserted it fully, and also make sure it is the correct fuse.  If the component still won't work, the problem most likely lies within the component itself (or in the wiring to that component).

Note:

• Always replace a bad fuse with an identical fuse.  Never try to install a differently-sized fuse or use one with a different amperage or voltage rating than the one being replaced.
• Never remove or insert a fuse while the car is on or running.

(Originally published on Helium.com, 2011)