2016 Jeep Wrangler Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick Answer

The 2016 Jeep Wrangler features three main fuse box locations:

• Under-hood Power Distribution Center (PDC): Located in the engine bay, near the battery on the driver's side.
• Passenger Compartment Fuse Box: Located behind the glove box or sometimes behind the passenger kick panel.
• Rear Cargo Area Fuse Box (Rubicon and some other trims): Situated in the right rear quarter panel, behind a removable trim panel.

Under-hood Power Distribution Center (PDC)

The under-hood Power Distribution Center (PDC) houses a majority of the vehicle's fuses and relays, protecting critical powertrain and chassis components. Always refer to the fuse layout diagram on the underside of the PDC cover for exact fuse identification, as configurations can vary slightly due to trim levels and optional equipment.

Relays in the Under-hood PDC:

• Run/Start Relay: Powers various systems when the ignition is on.
• Fuel Pump Relay: Controls power to the fuel pump.
• Horn Relay: Activates the horn.
• Front/Rear Wiper Relays: Control the wiper motors.
• Headlamp Relays (Low/High Beam): Control power to the headlamps.
• Blower Motor Relay: Controls the HVAC blower motor.
• ABS Pump Relay: Powers the ABS pump.
• Trailer Tow Relays (if equipped): Control trailer lighting and brake functions.

Passenger Compartment Fuse Box

The passenger compartment fuse box is primarily responsible for protecting interior electrical components and accessories. In the 2016 Jeep Wrangler, it's typically located behind the glove box, which may require lowering or removing the glove box to access. Some variations may place it behind the passenger kick panel. Always consult your owner's manual or the fuse box lid for the definitive layout.

Rear Cargo Area Fuse Box (Rubicon and some other trims)

Some 2016 Jeep Wrangler trims, particularly the Rubicon and models with specific features, may include a smaller fuse box in the rear cargo area. This box typically protects components related to rear accessories, such as the rear power outlet, rear window defroster, or trailer tow provisions. This fuse box is usually located behind a removable trim panel on the right side of the cargo area. Always verify its presence and exact location with your owner's manual.

How to Test a Fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process that requires a fuse puller (often found in the fuse box lid) and a multimeter or a fuse tester.

1. Safety First: Ensure the ignition is off and the vehicle is in park with the parking brake engaged.
2. Locate the Blown Fuse: Refer to the fuse box diagram to identify the suspected fuse.
3. Remove the Fuse: Use the fuse puller to carefully extract the fuse from its slot.
4. Visual Inspection: Hold the fuse up to a light. If the metal wire (filament) inside is broken or burnt, the fuse is blown and needs replacement.
5. Multimeter Test (for less obvious breaks):
   • Set your multimeter to the continuity setting (often an audible beep).
   • Touch the probes to the metal contact points on top of the fuse. If the multimeter beeps or shows a reading close to zero ohms, the fuse is good. If there's no beep or an "OL" (open loop) reading, the fuse is blown.
6. Replace the Fuse: Always replace a blown fuse with a new one 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 any fuse can blow, some are more commonly encountered on the 2016 Jeep Wrangler due to typical wear and tear or accessory usage. If you experience an electrical issue, check these fuses first:

• Cigar Lighter/12V Power Outlets (Fuses F18, M4, M5, R1): These are frequent culprits, especially if you regularly use high-draw accessories like phone chargers, air compressors, or portable refrigerators. What to check first: Disconnect all accessories and replace the fuse. If it blows again immediately, there might be a short in the circuit or the outlet itself.
• Blower Motor (Fuse F11) / A/C Clutch (Fuse F12): Problems with the HVAC system, such as a non-working fan or no cold air, often point to these fuses. What to check first: If the blower motor fuse blows, it could indicate a failing blower motor drawing too much current. If the A/C clutch fuse blows, the clutch might be seizing up.
• Radio / Infotainment System (Fuse M1): If your radio suddenly goes dead, this is the first place to look. What to check first: Ensure no recent aftermarket installations might have caused a short. A faulty head unit can also cause this fuse to blow.
• Headlights (Fuses F5, F6, F7, F8): While less common than accessory fuses, a blown headlamp fuse can leave you in the dark. What to check first: If only one headlamp is out, typically it's the bulb and not the fuse. If both low beams or high beams are out, then check the corresponding fuses. A short in the wiring can also cause this.
• Fuel Pump (Fuse F2): If your Jeep cranks but doesn't start, and you don't hear the fuel pump prime when you turn the key, this fuse is a prime suspect. What to check first: Listen for the characteristic hum of the fuel pump when you turn the ignition to the "ON" position (before starting). A faulty fuel pump drawing excessive current could be the cause.

Remember, always consult your 2016 Jeep Wrangler owner's manual for the most accurate and specific fuse box diagrams and information for your particular trim level and options.

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