2016 Honda CR-V Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Working on your 2016 Honda CR-V's electrical system can be daunting, but understanding the fuse boxes is the first step to diagnosing many common problems. Whether it's a dead radio, non-working power outlet, or headlights that won't turn on, the fix is often a simple blown fuse. This guide, written by an ASE-certified master technician, will walk you through the locations, diagrams, and common issues related to your CR-V's fuses.

Quick Answer: Fuse Box Locations

Your 2016 Honda CR-V has two primary fuse boxes:

1. Under-Hood Fuse & Relay Box: Located in the engine bay on the driver's side, near the battery. It's a black plastic box with a removable lid.
2. Interior Fuse Box: Located inside the cabin, under the dashboard on the driver's side, to the left of the steering column. It's tucked away and may require you to get low to see it.

Note: Always verify the fuse locations and amperage with the diagram printed on the inside of your fuse box lid. Trim levels and optional equipment can cause slight variations.

Under-Hood Fuse & Relay Box

This box contains the higher-amperage main fuses and relays that protect critical engine and vehicle systems. To access it, press the tabs on the side of the black plastic cover and lift it off.

Main Fuses

Relays

Relays are larger, cube-shaped components that act as switches for high-current devices. Their locations are typically diagrammed on the fuse box lid.

• Starter Relay: Controls power to the starter motor.
• PGM-FI Main Relay: Powers the fuel injection system and fuel pump.
• A/C Clutch Relay: Engages and disengages the air conditioning compressor.
• Headlight Relays (High/Low): Switch between low and high beams.
• Blower Motor Relay: Controls the main power for the interior climate fan.

Interior Fuse Box (Driver's Side Dash)

This fuse box handles most of the interior electronics and cabin accessories. It's located under the driver's side dashboard. The diagram is usually on a sticker on the kick panel or dash itself.

How to Test a Fuse

A blown fuse is a deliberate weak link designed to protect a circuit from excessive current. If a component stops working, always check the fuse first.

1. Turn the vehicle's ignition off.
2. Locate the suspect fuse using the diagrams above and the one on your fuse box lid.
3. Remove the fuse. Often, a small plastic "fuse puller" is included in the fuse box.
4. Visual Inspection: Hold the fuse up to the light. Inside the plastic body is a small metal strip. If this strip is broken or melted, the fuse is blown.
5. Multimeter Test (More Accurate): Set a multimeter to the continuity setting (it often looks like a sound wave symbol). Touch one probe to each metal blade on the top of the fuse. If the meter beeps or reads close to zero ohms, the fuse is good. If it remains silent or reads "OL" (Open Loop), the fuse is blown.

When replacing a fuse, always use a new fuse with the exact same amperage rating. Using a higher-rated fuse can cause a fire.

Common Blown Fuses on the 2016 Honda CR-V

While any fuse can blow, some are more common than others based on the circuits they protect.

• Fuse #28 (20A Yellow - Accessory Power Socket): This is one of the most frequently blown fuses. It's usually caused by a faulty phone charger, a coin falling into the socket, or a device that draws too much power. What to check first: Before replacing the fuse, unplug any chargers or devices from the 12V outlets. Inspect the socket itself for any foreign objects. Replace the fuse, and if it blows again immediately, the socket wiring may be shorted.

• Fuse #18 (7.5A Brown - A/C Clutch): If your A/C suddenly stops blowing cold air but the fan still works, this fuse is a likely culprit. Often, the fuse blows because the A/C compressor clutch coil is wearing out and drawing too much current. What to check first: Replace the fuse. If it blows again when you turn the A/C on, it's a strong indication that the A/C clutch coil is failing and needs to be inspected by a technician. Continuing to replace the fuse without addressing the root cause will not solve the problem.

Electrical issues can be frustrating. By using this guide, you can confidently identify, test, and replace fuses in your 2016 CR-V. For more complex electrical problems or other vehicle needs, it's always best to consult a professional.

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