Maintenance

Fuses

~3min read

Right-hand side: Blown

The vehicle's electrical system is protected from damage caused by electrical overloads by fuses.

This vehicle has 2 (or 3) fuse panels: one located on the driver's side instrument panel, and the others in the engine compartment near the battery.

If any of your vehicle's lights, accessories, or controls do not work, check the corresponding circuit fuse. If the fuse element inside the fuse is melted, the fuse has blown.

If the electrical system does not work, first check the fuse panel on the driver's side. Before replacing a blown fuse, disconnect the negative battery cable.

Always replace a blown fuse with one of the same rating.

If a replacement fuse blows again, this indicates an electrical problem. Avoid using the affected system and immediately contact a professional workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorized Kia Dealer/Service Partner.

Three types of fuses are used: blade type for lower current ratings, cartridge type, and multi-fuse for higher current ratings.

WARNING

Fuse Replacement

  • Never replace a fuse with anything other than a fuse of the same rating.
  • A fuse with a higher rating may cause damage and possibly a fire.
  • Never install wire or aluminum foil in place of a normal fuse, even as a temporary repair. This may cause extensive damage to the wiring and a possible fire.
  • Do not arbitrarily modify or add to the vehicle's wiring.

CAUTION

Do not use a screwdriver or any other metal object to remove fuses, as this may cause a short circuit and damage the system.

NOTICE

  • When replacing a fuse, turn the ignition to "OFF", switch off all electrical devices, then disconnect the battery negative (-) terminal.
  • The actual fuse/relay panel label may differ from the equipped items.

CAUTION

  • When replacing a blown fuse or relay, make sure the new fuse or relay fits firmly into the clips. An incompletely seated fuse or relay may cause damage to the vehicle wiring and electrical systems and a possible fire.
  • Do not remove fuses, relays, and terminals that are secured with bolts or nuts. Fuses, relays, and terminals may not be fully secured, which may lead to a fire. If fuses, relays, or terminals secured with bolts or nuts are loose, have them checked at a professional workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorized Kia Dealer/Service Partner.
  • Do not insert any objects other than fuses or relays into the fuse/relay terminals, such as a driver or wiring. This may cause poor contact and a system malfunction.
  • Do not connect screwdrivers or non-original wiring to terminals designed only for fuses and relays. The electrical system and vehicle interior wiring may be damaged or burned due to poor contact.
  • If you connect wiring directly to the rear lamp or replace a bulb with one exceeding the rated wattage for trailer installation, etc., the internal connection unit may burn out.

CAUTION

Inspect the battery compartment cover to make sure it is securely closed. If the battery compartment cover is not tightly closed, moisture may enter the system and damage electrical components.

NOTICE

Aftermarket wiring is prohibited when installing additional equipment

Using aftermarket wiring in the vehicle may create hazards due to malfunction and degraded vehicle performance. Using aftermarket wires, especially when installing an AVN or anti-theft system, remote engine start, car telephone, or radio, may damage the vehicle or cause a fire.

NOTICE

Vehicle modification is prohibited

Do not attempt to modify the vehicle in any way. This is illegal and may affect vehicle driveability, durability, and safety. The warranty also does not cover problems caused by modification.

Be aware of safety problems caused by installing unauthorized electrical devices (lamps, black box, electrical equipment, diagnostic device, communication device, etc.). This may cause the vehicle to malfunction, damage the wiring, discharge the battery, damage the connector, or cause a fire.

NOTICE

Precautions for window tinting

Window tinting (especially metallized film) may cause communication interference or poor radio reception, and malfunction of the automatic lighting system due to excessive change in the interior light level. The solution used may also seep into electrical and electronic devices, causing malfunction and failure.

Test yourself

A quick Kia Picanto JA quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.