Blade Fuse Color Chart

What it is

Blade fuses protect vehicle circuits. Each fuse has a plastic body with two flat blades and a fusible link between them. The body color identifies the current rating, and the rating is also molded or printed on the top. Blade fuses come in several body sizes. Regular, mini and low-profile mini fuses share one color code. Maxi fuses use their own color code and are used for higher-current circuits.

How to identify

Measure or compare the body. The rating number on top is the final check; colors fade and some makers vary shades. Check the fuse box cover or the vehicle manual for which style fits each slot.

Body styles

• Regular (ATO, ATC): the original full-size blade fuse.
• Mini (ATM, APM): smaller body, common in newer vehicles.
• Low-profile mini (APS, ATT): mini rating range with a very short body.
• Micro2 and Micro3: small fuses for newer fuse boxes; Micro3 has three blades and protects two circuits.
• Maxi: large body for high-current circuits.

Color code (regular, mini and low-profile mini)

Key points

• Always replace a fuse with the same rating marked on the fuse box or in the manual. The fuse protects the wiring, not just the device.
• A fuse that blows again right away means a short or overload in the circuit. Find the cause.
• Check fuses with a test light or meter across the test points on top, or pull the fuse and look for a broken link.
• Maxi fuse colors differ from the chart above. Read the rating on the fuse.
• Blade fuses for 24 V or 32 V systems must be rated for that voltage.

Common mistakes

• Installing a higher-rated fuse to stop a fuse from blowing. This can overheat the wiring.
• Matching color only, between a maxi and a regular fuse.
• Forcing a regular fuse into a mini slot or a mini fuse into a low-profile slot.

Governing standards: No single public standard governs colors; the color code is an industry convention followed by fuse makers. ISO 8820 covers road vehicle fuse-links. Vehicle manufacturer's fuse chart governs.

Reference only. Verify against the current governing code or standard, the manufacturer's data and the project documents before use. Apps for Distributors disclaims liability arising from reliance on this reference.