2017 Ford Explorer Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage Guide

Quick Answer

The 2017 Ford Explorer features three main fuse box locations: under the hood (engine compartment), behind the passenger side kick panel (interior), and in the rear cargo area (behind a trim panel). This guide will detail the fuses and relays within each.

Under-Hood Fuse Box (Battery Junction Box)

The under-hood fuse box, also known as the Battery Junction Box (BJB), is located in the engine compartment on the passenger side, near the battery. It is responsible for protecting many primary vehicle systems, including the powertrain, ABS, and major electrical components.

To access it, unclip the cover and remove it. Always ensure the vehicle is turned off before inspecting or replacing fuses.

Relay Locations (Under-Hood):

• R1 (PCM Power Relay): Provides power to the Powertrain Control Module.
• R2 (Fuel Pump Relay): Powers the fuel pump.
• R3 (Starter Relay): Engages the starter motor.
• R4 (Run/Accessory Relay): Controls various accessories when the ignition is on.
• R5 (Cooling Fan Relay): Activates the engine cooling fan.
• R6 (A/C Clutch Relay): Engages the A/C compressor clutch.

Passenger Side Kick Panel Fuse Box (Smart Junction Box)

This fuse box, often called the Smart Junction Box (SJB), is located inside the cabin, behind the passenger side kick panel. You'll need to remove the trim panel to access it. This box handles many interior electrical components and accessories.

Rear Cargo Area Fuse Box

The third fuse box is situated in the rear cargo area, typically behind a removable trim panel on the driver's or passenger's side. This box often supplies power to rear accessories, trailer wiring, and convenience features.

How to Test a Fuse

1. Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is off and the key is removed from the ignition. Refer to your owner's manual for specific safety precautions.
2. Locate the Fuse Box: Identify the fuse box relevant to the circuit you're troubleshooting.
3. Identify the Suspect Fuse: Consult the fuse diagram (either in this guide or on your fuse box lid) to find the specific fuse protecting the problematic component.
4. Visual Inspection: Pull the fuse out using the plastic fuse puller usually found in the under-hood fuse box. Hold it up to the light and look for a broken metal wire inside. If it's broken, the fuse is blown.
5. Multimeter Test (Recommended): For a more definitive test, set your multimeter to the ohms (Ω) setting. Touch the probes to the two metal test points on top of the fuse. A good fuse will show a reading close to zero ohms (continuity). If the multimeter reads "OL" (open circuit) or infinity, the fuse is blown.
6. Replace the Fuse: 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 cause severe 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 typical usage patterns. If you're experiencing an issue, check these fuses first:

• Cigarette Lighter / 12V Power Outlets (Under-Hood F20, Interior F2, Rear F1): These are frequently overloaded by accessories like phone chargers, air compressors, or portable vacuums. If your charging ports aren't working, these are the first culprits.
• Blower Motor (Under-Hood F11): A failing blower motor or an obstruction in the HVAC system can cause this high-amperage fuse to blow, resulting in no air from the vents.
• Headlights (Under-Hood F6-F9): While less common, a short in the headlight wiring or bulb failure can sometimes trip these fuses. Ensure bulbs are properly seated and functioning.
• Trailer Wiring (Under-Hood F13, Rear F4): If you regularly tow, issues with trailer lights or a short in the trailer's wiring harness can cause these fuses to blow.
• Radio/Infotainment System (Interior F1): Issues with aftermarket installations or an internal fault in the head unit can sometimes lead to this fuse blowing, causing your radio to go dead.

Always remember to check your owner's manual and the printed legend on the fuse box lid, as fuse configurations can sometimes vary slightly by trim level, engine, or specific optional equipment.

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