2020 Chevrolet Malibu Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage Guide

Quick Answer

The 2020 Chevrolet Malibu typically has three main fuse box locations:

• Under-hood Fuse Block: Located in the engine compartment on the driver's side, near the battery.
• Instrument Panel Fuse Block: Located on the passenger side, behind the kick panel.
• Rear Compartment Fuse Block: Located in the trunk, behind a trim panel on the driver's side.

This guide will detail the most common fuse configurations. Always refer to the fuse legend printed on the inside of your fuse box lid for the most accurate information for your specific trim level.

Under-hood Fuse Block

The under-hood fuse block protects various engine and vehicle systems. This is where you'll find fuses for critical components like the Engine Control Module (ECM), fuel pump, cooling fans, and major lighting circuits.

Relay Locations (Under-hood):

• RL1: Cooling Fan Relay 1
• RL2: Cooling Fan Relay 2
• RL3: Fuel Pump Relay
• RL4: Starter Relay
• RL5: Horn Relay
• RL6: A/C Clutch Relay
• RL7: Run/Crank Relay

Instrument Panel Fuse Block

The instrument panel fuse block primarily handles interior electrical components and accessories. This includes items like the radio, infotainment system, power windows, and interior lighting.

Relay Locations (Instrument Panel):

• RL1: Accessory Power Relay

Rear Compartment Fuse Block

The rear compartment fuse block manages electrical components in the rear of the vehicle, including tail lights, rear power outlets, and sometimes features like the rear defogger.

How to Test a Fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process and requires a simple tool like a fuse puller (often found in the fuse box lid) and a multimeter or a fuse tester. Here's how:

1. Locate the Fuse Box: Identify the correct fuse box for the circuit you suspect is having an issue.
2. Turn Off the Ignition: Ensure the vehicle's ignition is off to prevent electrical shocks or damage.
3. Identify the Suspect Fuse: Refer to the fuse diagram in your owner's manual or the fuse box lid to locate the fuse for the problematic component.
4. Remove the Fuse: Use the fuse puller to carefully remove the fuse from its slot. Do not use metal pliers, as this can damage the fuse or short the circuit.
5. Visually Inspect: Many fuses (especially mini and ATO blade style) have a small wire or filament inside. If this wire is broken or melted, the fuse is blown. Some fuses, like Maxi fuses, are harder to visually inspect.
6. Test with a Multimeter: If a visual inspection isn't conclusive, set your multimeter to the continuity setting (often represented by a speaker or diode symbol). Touch one probe to each metal terminal of the fuse. A good 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.
7. Replace (if blown): If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage rating and type. Using a fuse with a higher amperage can lead to serious electrical damage or fire.

Common Blown Fuses on This Vehicle

While the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu is generally reliable, some fuses are more prone to failure due to their role in frequently used systems or high-draw components. If you're experiencing an electrical issue, start by checking these common culprits:

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Outlets (Instrument Panel F2, Rear Compartment F4): These are frequently blown due to overcurrent from charging devices or using accessories that draw too much power.
  • What to check first: Unplug any devices from the outlet before replacing the fuse. Ensure you're not using a defective charger or accessory.
• Blower Motor (Under-hood F14): A failing blower motor or a clog in the HVAC system can cause this fuse to blow.
  • What to check first: Listen for any unusual noises from the blower motor. Ensure your cabin air filter isn't excessively dirty, restricting airflow.
• Radio / Infotainment (Instrument Panel F1): Issues with aftermarket installations, wiring shorts, or internal unit faults can blow this fuse.
  • What to check first: If you have any aftermarket accessories connected to your radio, try disconnecting them. Check for any visible loose wires or signs of damage.
• Headlights (Under-hood F9, F10, F11, F12): While less common without an underlying issue, a short in the headlight circuit or a faulty bulb can trip these fuses.
  • What to check first: Inspect your headlight bulbs for any signs of damage or a blackening filament. Be aware that often only one headlight will go out if its specific fuse blows.
• Trailer Brake Control (Under-hood F21 - if equipped): Overloading the trailer wiring or a short in the trailer