2021 Chevrolet Malibu Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick Answer

The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu features three main fuse box locations: under the hood (engine compartment), inside the cabin (driver's side instrument panel), and in the trunk (cargo area).

Under-Hood Fuse Box

The under-hood fuse box is located in the engine compartment, on the driver's side, near the battery. It contains fuses and relays for critical engine functions, lights, and other high-current components. Always consult your owner's manual and the fuse box lid for the exact layout, as variations can occur based on trim level and options.

Relay Locations (Under-Hood):

• RL1: Starter Relay
• RL2: Fuel Pump Relay
• RL3: PCM/ECM Relay
• RL4: HVAC Blower Relay
• RL5: A/C Clutch Relay
• RL6: High Beam Relay

Instrument Panel (Cabin) Fuse Box

The instrument panel fuse box is located on the driver's side, typically behind a removable panel on the side of the dashboard, accessible when the driver's door is open. This fuse box generally protects interior electrical components and accessories.

Trunk/Cargo Area Fuse Box

The fuse box in the trunk or cargo area is often found on the left or right side behind a trim panel. This location typically handles power for rear-specific components, such as tail lamps, fuel door release, and rear accessory outlets if equipped.

How to Test a Fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process that can help diagnose electrical issues. You'll need a multimeter or a fuse tester.

1. Locate the fuse box: Refer to your owner's manual or the quick answer section above to find the correct fuse box.
2. Identify the suspected fuse: Use the provided diagrams and your vehicle's fuse box legend to pinpoint the fuse for the circuit you're troubleshooting.
3. Turn off the ignition: Always ensure the vehicle's ignition is off before removing or inserting fuses to prevent electrical surges.
4. Remove the fuse: Use the fuse puller (usually found in the fuse box lid) or small needle-nose pliers to carefully remove the fuse.
5. Visually inspect the fuse: For most blade-type fuses, you can visually check the small wire or filament inside. If it's broken or melted, the fuse is blown. For opaque fuses, visual inspection isn't possible.
6. Test with a multimeter:
   • Set your multimeter to the continuity setting (often indicated by a speaker icon). If it doesn't have continuity, use the ohms setting and look for a very low resistance reading (close to zero).
   • Touch the probes to the two metal terminals on top of the fuse. A good fuse will show continuity (the multimeter will beep or display a low resistance). If there's no continuity or an infinite resistance, the fuse is blown.
7. Replace if necessary: 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 rating can lead to serious electrical damage or fire.

Common Blown Fuses on This Vehicle

While any fuse can blow, some are more commonly affected due to their frequent use or high current draw. If you're experiencing an electrical issue, check these fuses first:

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Power Outlets (Cabin Fuse Box F3, F13): These fuses are often blown by over-drawing power with accessories or due to faulty charging cables. If your phone charger or other accessories aren't working, check these.
• Headlights (Under-Hood Fuse Box F6, F7, F8, F9): If one or both of your headlights stop working, but the bulbs appear good, a blown headlight fuse is a common culprit. Remember to check both low and high beam fuses.
• Blower Motor (Under-Hood Fuse Box F2): If your HVAC fan stops working on all settings, this large fuse guarding the blower motor circuitry is a good place to start your investigation.
• Radio / Infotainment (Cabin Fuse Box F1): A blank screen or no audio from your radio often points to this fuse. Before assuming a major system failure, check this first.
• Fuel Pump (Under-Hood Fuse Box F5): If your car cranks but doesn't start, and you don't hear the fuel pump prime when you turn the key to the ON position, this fuse (along with its relay) is a critical component to verify.

Always remember to check the proper corresponding circuit for the symptom you are experiencing. If a new fuse blows immediately, there is likely a short circuit or an underlying electrical problem that needs professional diagnosis.

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