2016 Ford Escape Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick answer

The 2016 Ford Escape has three main fuse box locations:

• Under-hood Fuse Box: Located in the engine compartment, on the driver's side, near the battery.
• Smart Junction Box (SJB) / Passenger Compartment Fuse Box: Found behind the glove compartment.
• Luggage Compartment Fuse Box: Located in the right rear of the cargo area.

Under-hood Fuse Box

This fuse box contains high-current fuses and relays for critical engine and vehicle systems. Always consult the fuse diagram on the lid of your actual fuse box, as fuse positions and ratings can vary slightly between trim levels and optional equipment.

Relays in Under-hood Fuse Box:

• R1: Fuel Pump Relay
• R2: Starter Relay
• R3: High Beam Headlight Relay
• R4: Cooling Fan Relay
• R5: A/C Clutch Relay

Smart Junction Box (SJB) / Passenger Compartment Fuse Box

This fuse box is located behind the glove compartment and manages power distribution for many interior electrical components. To access it, you may need to lower or remove the glove box. As always, refer to your specific vehicle's fuse diagram for precise locations.

Luggage Compartment Fuse Box

Some 2016 Ford Escape models may have an additional fuse box located in the luggage compartment, typically on the right side behind a trim panel. This box often supplies power to rear accessories or specific options.

How to test a fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process that can save you time and money. Here's how you can do it:

1. Safety First: Always turn off the ignition and remove the key before working with fuses. This prevents accidental shorts or electrical shocks.
2. Locate the Fuse Box: Refer to the "Quick answer" section above to find the relevant fuse box.
3. Identify the Suspect Fuse: Consult the fuse diagram on the fuse box lid or in your owner's manual to pinpoint the fuse for the malfunctioning component.
4. Visual Inspection: Most modern fuses have a clear plastic body. Look at the small wire or filament inside. If it's broken or melted, the fuse is blown. If it's intact, the fuse is likely good, but further testing is recommended.
5. Use a Fuse Puller: Your vehicle's fuse box usually contains a small plastic fuse puller tool. Use it to carefully remove the suspect fuse.
6. Test with a Multimeter (Recommended):
   • Set your multimeter to the "ohms" or continuity setting (usually indicated by a speaker symbol).
   • Touch one probe of the multimeter to each metal blade of the fuse.
   • If the fuse is good, the multimeter will show a reading close to zero ohms or beep (indicating continuity). If the fuse is blown, the multimeter will show an "OL" (open loop) or no reading/no beep.
7. Replace the Fuse: 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 rating, as this can lead to electrical system damage or fire.

Common blown fuses on this vehicle

While any fuse can blow, some are more commonly encountered on the 2016 Ford Escape due to their function or the loads they protect. If you're experiencing an issue, these are good places to start your investigation:

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Power Outlets (F22, F23, F37): These fuses are often blown due to overloads from charging multiple devices or using high-power accessories. Check these first if your phone charger or other plug-in devices aren't working.
• Blower Motor (F11, F33): If your HVAC fan isn't working on any speed, the blower motor fuse (F11 in the under-hood box, or potentially F33 in the SJB for the motor itself) is a common culprit. A failing blower motor can draw too much current and blow the fuse.
• Radio/Infotainment System (F21): If your radio or touchscreen is completely dead, check F21 in the SJB. Sometimes, aftermarket installations or short circuits can cause this fuse to blow.
• Brake Lights (F24): If your brake lights aren't illuminating, F24 in the SJB is a likely candidate. Always check the bulbs first, but if they're good, the fuse is next.
• Trailer Brake Controller (F15): If you're having issues with your trailer brakes, and your Escape is equipped with a trailer brake controller, check F15 in the under-hood box. Ensure the trailer wiring is properly connected and not shorting out.

When troubleshooting, always verify the printed legend in your fuse box lid, as fuse layouts can vary slightly by trim and specific options on your 2016 Ford Escape.

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