2021 Chevrolet Equinox Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick Answer

The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox features three main fuse box locations: one under the hood, a second inside the cabin on the passenger side kick panel, and a third in the rear cargo area.

Underhood Fuse Block

The underhood fuse block is located in the engine compartment, on the passenger side, near the battery. It contains fuses and relays for critical engine and vehicle systems. Always consult the fuse box lid diagram for the exact layout for your trim level, as variations can occur.

Relay Locations (Underhood):

• RL1: Fuel Pump Relay
• RL2: Starter Relay
• RL3: PCM/ECM Relay
• RL4: Headlight Low Beam Relay
• RL5: Headlight High Beam Relay
• RL6: Blower Motor Relay
• RL7: ABS Pump Relay

Instrument Panel Fuse Block (Passenger Side Kick Panel)

The instrument panel fuse block is located on the passenger side of the vehicle, behind the kick panel. To access it, you will need to remove the kick panel trim.

Rear Cargo Area Fuse Block

The rear cargo area fuse block is typically located on the driver's side, behind a trim panel in the cargo area. This fuse box commonly houses circuits for accessories and convenience features.

How to Test a Fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process that can help diagnose electrical issues. Here's how:

1. Safety First: Ensure the vehicle's ignition is off and the battery is disconnected if you're working on major electrical components.
2. Locate the Fuse: Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual or the fuse box lid diagram to find the suspected fuse.
3. Visual Inspection: Most modern fuses have a visible wire element. If the wire is broken or melted, the fuse is blown. Tinted or opaque fuses may require further testing.
4. Use a Fuse Puller: Gently pull the fuse straight out of its socket using a plastic fuse puller (usually found in the fuse box or tool kit).
5. Test with a Multimeter: Set your multimeter to the continuity or ohms setting. Touch one probe to each metal blade of the fuse. A working fuse will show continuity (a beep or a reading close to zero ohms). A blown fuse will show no continuity or an "OL" (open loop) reading.
6. Replace if Blown: If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage rating and type. Never use a fuse with a higher amperage, as this can lead to serious electrical damage or fire.

Common Blown Fuses on This Vehicle

While any fuse can blow, some are more common than others due to the nature of the components they protect or their usage patterns. On the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox, common culprits often include:

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Power Outlets (F2 in Instrument Panel): These fuses frequently blow due to overcurrent from charging multiple devices, using high-power accessories, or inserting a faulty plug. If your phone charger or air compressor suddenly stops working, check this fuse first.
• Blower Motor (F13 in Underhood): If your HVAC fan stops working entirely, especially after prolonged use on high settings, the blower motor fuse might be the culprit. A failing blower motor can also cause this fuse to blow.
• Radio / Infotainment System (F1 in Instrument Panel): Issues with aftermarket installations, short circuits within the radio unit, or even a sudden power surge can sometimes lead to this fuse blowing. If your radio is completely dead, this is a good place to start your diagnosis.
• Headlights (F5-F8 in Underhood): While less common, a short circuit in a headlight assembly or even a dying bulb can sometimes cause a headlight fuse to blow. If one of your headlights is out, verify the bulb first, then check the corresponding fuse.

Always remember to check the simplest solutions first. Verify that the component you're trying to power is correctly plugged in and functioning. If a fuse repeatedly blows, it indicates a deeper electrical issue that should be investigated by a qualified technician.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.