Ford Explorer 1997 Fuse Replacement
Having an electrical issue? It could be a blown fuse — an easy fix you can do yourself.
Follow the steps below to find and replace the fuse:
Step 1: Find the Fuse Box
In your Ford Explorer 1997, the interior fuse box is typically located under the dashboard on the driver's side. Some vehicles also have an additional fuse box in the engine compartment. Check your owner's manual or the fuse box cover for the exact location.
Step 2: Identify the Corresponding Fuse
Below is the complete fuse list for your vehicle. Find the circuit that isn't working and note the fuse number and amperage.
Passenger compartment Fuse Box
| Fuse # | Function | Amperage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Power mirror, power antenna | 7.5 |
| 2 | High-mount brakelamp | 7.5 |
| 3 | Parking lamp, instrument cluster gauges | 15 |
| 4 | Left headlamp, lamp out warning | 10 |
| 5 | OBD system | 10 |
| 6 | Air bag system, blower relay, EATC | 7.5 |
| 7 | Illumination switches | 7.5 |
| 8 | Right headlamp, fog lamp system, DRL, lamp out warning | 10 |
| 9 | EATC system, seat memory, message center, cellular phone, autolamps | 10 |
| 10 | EATC system, rear blower, speed control, GEM system, brake interlock, overhead console, automatic ride control, lamp out warning | 7.5 |
| 11 | Warning lamps, autolamp | 7.5 |
| 12 | Front washer, rear washer & wiper | 10 |
| 13 | PCM system, stoplamps, AWD, anti-lock brake, speed control, trailer tow | 15 |
| 14 | Anti-lock system | 10 |
| 15 | Air hag system, instrument cluster | 7.5 |
| 16 | Wiper run relay | 30 |
| 17 | Cigar lighter | 25 |
| 18 | A/C system | 15 |
| 19 | Ignition coil, PCM system | 25 |
| 20 | Radio, power antenna, GEM system, anti-theft, cellular phone | 7.5 |
| 21 | Turn/hazard flasher | 15 |
| 22 | Turn signals | 10 |
| 23 | Rear wiper system | 10 |
| 24 | Starter relay | 10 |
| 25 | Speedometer, GEM system | 7.5 |
| 26 | 5R55E/4R70W overdrive, DRL system, backup lamps, AWD, rear defroster | 10 |
| 27 | Under hood lamp, map lamps, glove box lamp, dome lamp, visor lamps, accessory delay, dimmer switch illumination, 4x4 system | 10 |
| 28 | Memory seat, GEM system | 7.5 |
| 29 | Audio system | 10 |
| 30 | Not used | |
| 31 | Rear blower system | 7.5 |
| 32 | Heated mirror, rear defroster | 7.5 |
| 33 | High beam lamps | 15 |
| 34 | Lux audio system | 7.5 |
Power distribution box Fuse Box
| Fuse # | Function | Amperage |
|---|---|---|
| Maxifuses | Spare | |
| 1 | Rear window defrost | 30 |
| 2 | PCM power relay | 30 |
| 3 | Fuel system, anti-theft system | 20 |
| 4 | Headlamps | 20 |
| 5 | ABS system | 30 |
| 6 | ABS system | 30 |
| 7 | Trailer park LP and trailer stop LP | 20 |
| 8 | Battery saver relay and headlamp relay | 30 |
| 9 | Blower motor | 50 |
| 10 | Power locks, power windows and power seats | 30 |
| 11 | PCM memory and horn | 20 |
| 12 | Air ride control relay | 50 |
| 13 | Instrument panel fuse panel | 60 |
| 14 | Ignition | 60 |
| Minifuses | Spare | |
| 1 | JBL system | 30 |
| 2 | Rear wiper system | 15 |
| 3 | Power point | 30 |
| 4 | 4WD system | 20 |
| 5 | Air suspension system | 15 |
| 6 | Alternator system | 15 |
| 7 | Air bag system | 10 |
| 8 | DRL/Fog lamps/Off-road lamps | 15 |
| 9 | Not used | |
| Maxifuses | Spare | |
| 10 | Not used | |
| 11 | HEGO system | 20 |
Assignment of the relay in the Power distribution box Fuse Box
| Fuse # | Function | Amperage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wiper run relay | |
| 2 | Horn relay | |
| 3 | Wiper HI/LO relay | |
| 4 | WOT A/C relay | |
| 5 | PCM power relay | |
| 6 | Fuel pump relay | |
| Diodenumber | Spare | |
| 1 | ABS diode | |
| 2 | PCM diode |
Step 3: Check the Fuse
Use the plastic fuse puller, typically found in the fuse box, to remove the fuse. Hold it up to a light source. If the metal filament inside is broken or charred, the fuse is bad and needs to be replaced.
Step 4: How to Get a Replacement
You can buy a replacement fuse at any auto parts store. Make sure you match the **amperage (A)** and **physical size** of the fuse exactly. For example, if you need a 20A fuse, get a 20A fuse.
Step 5: Replace the Fuse
Gently press the new fuse into the empty slot. You should feel a slight click when it's securely in place. Test the affected circuit to confirm it's working again.
What Now?
Fuse Was Blown — What to Buy
Ask at any auto parts store (AutoZone, O'Reilly, Advance Auto) for a blade fuse with the same amperage printed on the old one (e.g., 10A, 15A, 20A). Also match the physical size — mini (most modern cars), standard, or maxi. Replacement fuses cost under $5 and most stores sell assorted packs.
Fuse Looks Fine — Other Causes
If the fuse is intact, the problem isn't a blown fuse. Common alternatives include a bad relay (a click-sized electrical switch), a faulty wiring connection, or a failed component (motor, switch, module). At this point, a mechanic's diagnostic is the most reliable next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I put in the wrong amperage fuse?
Higher amperage fuses won't protect the circuit and can cause wiring damage or fire. Lower amperage fuses will blow again immediately. Always match the exact amperage.
Why does my fuse keep blowing?
A repeatedly blown fuse indicates an underlying short circuit or overload. Replacing it again won't fix the root cause — consult a mechanic.
Do I need any tools?
Most cars come with a plastic fuse puller in the fuse box lid. If not, fine-tip needle-nose pliers work. A small flashlight helps.
How do I know what size fuse to buy?
Match the amperage printed on the old fuse (e.g., 10A, 15A, 20A) and the physical blade size (mini, standard, maxi). Auto parts stores carry assorted packs.