How to Change Car Fuses

Changing a blown fuse in your car is a relatively simple task.

There's a fine line between tackling a DIY car repair and knowing when to hire a mechanic. Taking on more than you can handle often leads to an expensive repair.

However, some repairs fall within the realm of DIY. Changing a blown car fuse is certainly one of them.

Every car has an instrument panel fuse block containing several fuses that connect and protect the electrical current that powers everything from the air conditioning and radio to the power steering. If one of these features stops working - it's likely due to a blown fuse.

Car fuses typically cost about a $1 at any neighborhood auto parts store.

Use these tips to replace a car fuse on your own.

1. Check the owner's manual

Don't leave anything to chance. Grab your owner's manual and locate the section on the fuse panel.

It should explain everything you need to know, including how to access the panel, and which fuses correspond to different parts of the car.

Most fuses are located on the driver's side dashboard, typically under the steering wheel, or in the glove compartment.

2. Remove the fuse panel

Locate the fuse panel and remove the cover. Most panels come off easily, but you may need a screwdriver.

3. Locate the blown fuse

You'll see several different fuses. Each fuse has a specific color and number on the top indicating the amperage. Your owner's manual should include a diagram explaining which component each fuse controls.

According to DMV.org, a blown fuse will have a broken filament or appear black inside. When you locate the blown fuse, you can pull it out with your hands. Some cars come with a special tool for removing fuses.

4. Replacing a blown fuse

When replacing a blown fuse, make sure the new fuse has the same color and amperage rating.

Replacing a fuse with the wrong amperage rating can cause serious damage to your car's electrical components.

Some fuse panels come equipped with spare fuses. If not, you'll need to buy one. If you're in a pinch, you can swap in a fuse of a lesser-used device, such as the cigarette lighter, as long as it has the same amperage and color.

5. Start the engine

After installing the new fuse and closing the fuse panel, start your car and check if the corresponding electrical device now works.

If not, or if the new fuse blows right after replacement, you'll need to take your car to a mechanic to diagnose the electrical issue.

How Often Should You REALLY Change Your Oil?

Most cars can go at least 5,000 miles before an oil change.

"Change your car’s engine oil every three months, or 3,000 miles."

At one time, that was standard auto advice. That same advice now feels as outdated as car cassette players and road atlases in your glove compartment.

Many cars today can drive 5,000, 7,500 and even 10,000 miles between oil changes.

The biggest reason is due to the changes in engine design and manufacturing that has led to needing better-quality oils. Most of today's cars are designed to use either a full synthetic or a synthetic blend oil, which lasts longer before viscosity breakdown.

HOW OFTEN TO CHANGE THE OIL

According to research by Edmunds, most carmakers now recommend oil changes between 7,500 and 10,000 miles, although some specify 5,000-mile intervals.

The type of engine oil, the age and make of your vehicle and driving habits dictate when to change engine oil.

According to Ford Motor Company, drivers with typical driving habits that own 2008 and newer models should change their engine oil every 7,500 miles or six months, or whichever comes first. Meanwhile, drivers should change the oil in vehicles 2007 and older every 5,000 miles or six months, or whichever comes first.

Drivers with less typical driving habits should change engine oil every 5,000 miles or six months for vehicles 2008 and newer, and every 3,000 miles or three months for cars 2007 and older. According to Ford, less typical driving habits include frequent off-road driving or driving in dusty conditions, towing or carrying heavy loads, excessive idling or driving at low speeds for long distances.

The worst type of driving for oil life is short distances below highway speeds. In other words, five thousand miles on the highway in five months is better that 1,500 miles of in-town driving in five months.

However, some mechanics say replacing oil more frequently allows them to inspect your car for other issues or routine maintenance, such as replacing the timing belt or brakes.

Having an oil change more often means that your mechanic is checking your vehicle three or four times a year rather than twice a year.

To determine how often to change your car’s engine oil, check the owner’s manual or talk with a reputable mechanic.

It appears there’s some discrepancy between what many mechanics recommend and the manufacturer, so do your research before deciding on an oil-change interval for your vehicle.