 | Bobby Lubbers
is owner of Bobby Lubbers Auto Group, a Chevrolet, Pontiac, Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep dealership in Harper, KS. A graduate of Wichita State University, he has been in and around the automotive industry for more than 25 years, and has been nationally recognized by General Motors for exceptional sales and customer satisfaction. You may contact Bobby by phone at (316) 721-1545, or by email at bobby@bobbylubbers.com |
Cars, Trucks, Vans & Automotive
2003-03-01 11:49:00
What do I have two fuse panels?
: My car has two fuse panels, one under the instrument panel and one in the engine compartment. How come?
ANSWER: A common misconception that many people have about their automobile is that they have one computer monitoring and controlling the various tasks performed by the mechanical and electrical systems on their car. In reality, there are several computers, called modules, on new vehicles. Each of these modules has separate but overlapping tasks that they perform to ensure the peak performance of your automobile.I’m sure that you have no doubt noticed that the wiring and electronic gizmos on today’s cars could rival that of a stealth fighter, hence the need for two and sometimes three fuse panels. But don’t let this frighten you. While the presence of multiple fuse panels seems intimidating, it is actually the result of wiring simplifications that allow the numerous modules to communicate with each other. The end result is still the same as it always has been, remove the fuse and the affected parts will not work. But trying to fit all of these fuses into one location would not be feasible and no doubt result in reduced interior space for the driver and passengers.Fuses work to ensure that an electrical problem does not eliminate the entire electrical system. Many times, when an electrical component fails it can have a domino effect and take down a number of components with it. Fuses are designed to “blow” in order to interrupt the circuit and ensure that a problem does not spread to other systems and components. Given the number of modules, sensors, and relays in modern automobiles, a complete failure would be catastrophic. When your service or check engine light is on, this not only alerts you of potential problems, but indicates that the computer is recording the problem for future diagnosis and repair. Only certain computers and equipment can communicate with your vehicle to find out what is happening and ultimately repair your vehicle.This brings up an interesting point. Given the complexities of today’s modern automobiles, you might want to have a second thought or two on who you should have service your automobile. Many people have routine maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations done at a local service station simply to lower their maintenance costs. It’s always a good idea to have factory repair centers or dealership service departments maintain your vehicle for you. Only at a dealership will you find the computers and diagnostic equipment needed to properly maintain and repair your vehicle. Dealership technicians are trained to scan all of the computer and electrical systems to ensure proper operation every time that vehicle comes in. Many times problems can be detected before they occur, and where electrical problems are concerned, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
