2018 Subaru Outback Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage

Quick Answer

The 2018 Subaru Outback has three main fuse box locations: under the hood, behind the driver's side kick panel, and in the cargo area on the passenger side.

Under-Hood Fuse Box

This fuse box is located in the engine compartment, typically on the passenger side. It houses fuses and relays for critical engine functions, lighting, and major electrical components. Always refer to the fuse diagram on the lid of the fuse box for the most accurate information, as configurations can vary slightly by trim level.

Relay Locations (Under-Hood)

• Fuel Pump Relay: Typically located near the fuel pump fuse (F1).
• Starter Relay: Often near fuse F10.
• A/C Compressor Relay: Usually close to the A/C clutch fuse (F12).
• Headlight Relays: Separate relays for high and low beams are generally located near their respective fuses.

Cabin Fuse Box (Driver's Side Kick Panel)

This fuse box is located inside the vehicle, behind a panel on the driver's side kick panel (left of the footrest). It protects various interior electrical components, accessories, and convenience features.

Cargo Area Fuse Box (Passenger Side)

This fuse box is located in the cargo area, often behind a trim panel on the passenger side. It typically contains fuses for rear-specific accessories, power outlets, and sometimes trailer-related circuits.

How to Test a Fuse

Testing a fuse is a straightforward process that requires a fuse puller (usually found in one of the fuse boxes) and a multimeter or a fuse tester.

1. Safety First: Ensure the vehicle's ignition is off before removing or inserting fuses.
2. Locate the Fuse: Identify the suspect fuse using the appropriate fuse box diagram.
3. Remove the Fuse: Use the fuse puller to carefully extract the fuse from its slot.
4. Visual Inspection: Hold the fuse up to the light. If the metal wire or strip 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 indicated by an audible beep or a horseshoe symbol). Touch one probe to each metal terminal on the 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: 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 serious electrical damage or a fire.

Common Blown Fuses on This Vehicle

While any fuse can blow, some are more common than others due to their circuit loads or typical accessory usage. If you experience an electrical issue, start by checking the fuses related to the affected component.

• Cigar Lighter / 12V Outlets: These fuses (typically F2 in the cabin fuse box and F1 in the cargo area) are common culprits, especially if you frequently charge multiple devices or use high-power accessories. Check for overloaded circuits or faulty devices plugged in.
• Headlights/Tail Lights: If only one light is out, it might be the bulb, but if multiple lights on a circuit are out (e.g., all tail lights), check the relevant fuses (F13, F14 under the hood).
• Radio/Infotainment: If your radio suddenly stops working, the F1 fuse in the cabin fuse box is a good place to start. Sometimes, a poorly installed aftermarket accessory can cause this.
• Blower Motor: If your fan isn't working on any speed setting, the F11 fuse under the hood protecting the blower motor is a prime suspect. This can be caused by a failing blower motor or resistor.

Always remember to check the fuses in the fuse box closest to the component that's experiencing issues first. If a fuse repeatedly blows, there's an underlying electrical problem that needs professional diagnosis.

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