Two red car fuses can both say 10A and still fit different sockets. A Mini fuse is about 11 mm wide, while a Micro2 is about 9 mm wide. A Low-Profile Mini can be about as wide as a regular Mini, so you also need to check its height and how far the terminals stick out.
Use this chart to identify the fuse family, then check the rating specified for the slot before buying a replacement.
What car fuse do you need? Match the vehicle’s specified fuse family and amperage. Check the body shape, height, and terminals against the replacement package. If the old fuse is missing or appears to be the wrong one, confirm the specification in the owner’s manual, service information, or OEM parts catalog.
Car Fuse Types and Size Chart
Measure the widest part of the housing first. Then compare the overall height and look underneath. Blade fuses have flat metal terminals. JCASE and MCASE cartridge fuses have recessed contacts, so the shape and spacing of the openings matter.
| Fuse Family | Approximate Width × Overall Height | How to Recognize It |
|---|---|---|
| Micro2 | 9.1 × 15.3 mm | Narrow housing with two closely spaced blades. |
| Micro3 | 14.4 × 18.0 mm | Three blades in a row. Two fuse elements share the center terminal. |
| Mini | 10.9 × 16.1 mm | Compact housing with two blades that extend well below the body. |
| Low-Profile Mini | 10.9 × 8.4 mm | About the same width as a Mini, with a much shorter overall profile and short terminal tabs. |
| Standard ATO/ATC style | 19.1 × 18.8 mm for the ATO example | Wider body and more widely spaced blades than a Mini. |
| Maxi | About 29.2 mm wide | Large blade fuse with two broad terminals. Check the series and rating for the slot. |
| JCASE | About 14.1 × 27.0 mm | Tall rectangular cartridge with two recessed contacts. The example is about 12 mm deep. |
| Low-Profile JCASE | About 14.5 × 16.0 mm | Shorter cartridge with recessed contacts. Compare the base as well as the height. |
| MCASE / MCASE+ | Check the specific series drawing | Compact cartridge. Compare the base, terminal openings, and any slot or keying with the specified part. |
Use these measurements to narrow the choices. Check the exact series drawing when comparing similar parts or when the package gives different dimensions. Littelfuse catalog with fuse photos and dimension drawings.
How to Tell Similar Car Fuses Apart
Micro2 vs. Mini
Both have two blades. A Micro2 is narrower, so compare the housing width and the spacing between the blades. If you take the fuse to a parts counter, show the underside as well as the amp number.
Mini vs. Low-Profile Mini
Compare them from the side with the tops level. The regular Mini extends much farther down. A replacement that sits too high can interfere with the fuse box cover, and a different terminal design may seat poorly.
Micro2 vs. Micro3
Count the blades. Micro2 has two and Micro3 has three. The third blade on a Micro3 is part of a shared-terminal design that serves two fuse elements. Order the specified three-terminal part when the fuse diagram calls for it.
JCASE vs. Low-Profile JCASE vs. MCASE
Turn the fuse over and compare the openings underneath. A regular JCASE is taller than a Low-Profile JCASE. MCASE and MCASE+ have their own contact designs, including variants with different openings. Use the specified series or OEM part number when shopping for a cartridge fuse. Littelfuse MCASE cartridge fuse specifications.
Car Fuse Color and Amperage Chart
Read the amp number on the fuse and confirm it against the vehicle’s fuse diagram. The same color can identify different ratings across fuse families.
| Color | Common Mini or Standard ATO Blade Fuse | JCASE / Low-Profile JCASE Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Tan | 5A | — |
| Brown | 7.5A | — |
| Red | 10A | 50A |
| Blue | 15A | 20A |
| Yellow | 20A | 60A |
| Clear or natural | 25A | — |
| Green | 30A | 40A |
| Pink | 4A in some blade series | 30A |
A dash means the chart gives no example for that color and family. Maxi, MCASE, and other series have their own specifications. Littelfuse series-by-series color and current ratings.
How to Find the Right Replacement Fuse
- Identify the circuit and slot. Find the fuse panel diagram for your exact model year. The front and rear 12-volt outlets, for example, may use separate slots. Some empty slots are intentionally unused.
- Confirm the required amperage. Read the fuse chart and compare it with the number on the removed fuse. If they disagree, confirm the correct rating for that slot before installing anything.
- Match the physical type. Compare the family name, body height, terminal count, terminal spacing, and base shape. For an unusual fuse, use the OEM part number or a documented equivalent.
- Check the electrical specification. Use the specified voltage rating and fuse characteristics or an approved equivalent. Similar housings can be sold with different specifications.
- Check whether the manual allows owner replacement. Have a qualified technician handle main, bolted, or high-voltage fuses when the manufacturer specifies professional service.
Example. If your outlet calls for a 15A Low-Profile Mini, shop for that exact combination. A blue 15A Micro2 has the same current rating but different dimensions and terminals.
If the correct fuse blows again, stop replacing it. A short, damaged wiring, or a failing accessory may be drawing too much current. Keep the specified amperage and have the circuit diagnosed. Mazda owner’s manual example of fuse replacement and main-fuse precautions.
For continuity testing, checking both fuse test points, and replacing an accessible fuse, see Car Fuse Blown? How to Check It, Replace It, and Know When There’s a Bigger Problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fuse does a 12-volt outlet or cigarette lighter use?
Look up the specific outlet in your vehicle’s fuse diagram. The fuse family and amperage can vary by vehicle and outlet location. If the diagram lists more than one outlet, use the slot for the one that stopped working.
How do I identify a fuse if the number is worn off?
Use the diagram to confirm the amperage for the slot. Compare the housing and terminals to identify the family. If the old fuse is missing, melted, or too damaged to identify, use the VIN and fuse location to verify the part through the manufacturer or a parts counter.
Can I use a different fuse if it fits and has the same amps?
Use the specified family and electrical characteristics or a documented equivalent. A fuse that slides into the opening can still make poor contact or prevent the cover from closing.
What should I look for in a spare fuse kit?
Check which families and ratings your vehicle actually uses. An assortment of standard and Mini blade fuses may leave out Micro2, Low-Profile Mini, or the cartridges your car requires. Keep a plastic fuse puller with the spares if the vehicle does not provide one.
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