1998 Buick Century

T MORSE

MEMBER
1998 BUICK CENTURY
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
95,000 MILES

The fuse protecting the circuit for the taillights and dash lights continually blows. I've checked the wiring, and can't find any worn or brokenwires. I have tried turning on the headlights prior to starting the vehice, and, sometimes this works without blowing the fuse. Other times, it blows the fuse.
The car is equipped with an automatic light switch, which illuminates the lights when it becomes dark. This also causes the fuse to blow. All other circuits work fine.
This just started about two weeks ago. The car has not been damaged in any way (no accidents, etc.).
What and where should I begin my search for the possible cause? What equipment will I need?
Please advise, as this is very annoying, as well as dangerous. I carry spare fuses, and can change them quickly, but, they don't last long (2 minutes to 2-3 days).
Thank you in advance for your help with this issue.
Regards.

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,757 POSTS

The best piece of equipment is a light bulb. Use two spade terminals and some wire to connect it in place of the fuse. A 12 volt brake light bulb will allow about 1 amp of current to flow. When that is split up among all of the tail and running lights, they won't be very bright. If you use a headlamp bulb, that will allow about 5 amps to flow. The headlamp bulb will be real dim, and the tail lights will be fairly bright. When the short occurs, all of the tail lights will go out and the headlamp will become full brightness.

When that happens, you can flex wiring harnesses, move stuff around, and unplug things until the short goes away. No more replacing fuses and waiting for them to pop.

Caradiodoc