Electrical system of a modern car Nissan Terrano 2018 release is a complex mechanism, where the reliability of each unit depends on the serviceability of the protective elements. The fuse box performs a critical function: it prevents the wiring from overheating and causing a fire if a short circuit or overload occurs in the circuit. Understanding the structure of this system allows the owner to independently fix minor faults, such as failure of power windows, lighting or audio systems, without resorting to the services of a car service.
Crossover owners are often faced with a situation where an electrical appliance suddenly stops working. In most cases, the problem lies not in the device itself, but in a burnt-out protection element. Knowing the exact location of the blocks and being able to read the color coding of fuses is a basic skill for any driver. We will analyze in detail where the main components are located, how to diagnose them correctly and what to do if the problem cannot be solved by simply replacing the part.
For model Nissan Terrano 2018 is characterized by a two-block protection system: one module is located in the engine compartment for power circuits, and the second is located in the vehicle interior to protect the comfort electronics. It is important to note that the configuration may vary slightly depending on the trim level and the market for which a particular machine was produced. Always check the official instructions if you are in doubt about the labeling.
Location and structure of the main protection units
In the car Nissan Terrano 2018 there are two main places for installing fuses. The first block, responsible for the high-voltage circuits of the engine and control system, is located in the engine compartment. It is located on the right side (passenger side) relative to the engine and is covered with a black plastic casing. This unit protects the generator, starter, electric radiator fans and other powerful energy consumers.
The second unit, responsible for the internal equipment and comfort systems, is located in the cabin. It can be found in the dashboard, on the left side of the steering column, behind a special decorative plug. Sometimes accessing it requires a little effort as the lid may be a tight fit. This block contains fuses that protect the audio system, cigarette lighter, power windows, mirrors and air conditioning system.
Each block has its own color marking and denomination. In the engine compartment there are often large fuses with high current strength (30A, 40A, 50A and higher), and in the passenger compartment there are elements with lower values (5A, 10A, 15A, 20A). It is important not to confuse them when replacing them, since installing a fuse with a lower rating can lead to its immediate blowout, while installing a fuse with a larger one can lead to failure of expensive electronics or wiring.
Fuse diagram in the cabin and decoding
To accurately determine the faulty element, you need to familiarize yourself with the diagram, which is usually applied to the inside of the cabin unit cover. If the sticker is missing or worn off, you can use the generally accepted data for the model Nissan Terrano. Below is a table with the most frequently blown fuses and their purposes.
| Fuse number | Denomination (A) | Purpose of the circuit | Case color |
|---|---|---|---|
| FR DOOR | 10 | Window lifters, door locks | Red |
| POWER | 20 | Power window relay | Yellow |
| ETC | 15 | Stabilization system (VDC) | Blue |
| AUDIO | 10 | Audio system, radio | Red |
| IG | 15 | Ignition, dashboard | Blue |
Particular attention should be paid to the cigarette lighter circuit and the power supply of chargers. IN Nissan Terrano 2018 this fuse is often marked ACC or POWER OUTLET and 15 or 20 Ampere rating. If you connect a powerful inverter or laptop charger, the load may exceed the permissible load, which will cause the element to burn out. In this case, it is recommended to use only certified adapters.
For diagnostics, use a special spatula or tongs, which often come with the block. If they are not there, you can use tweezers, but you should act extremely carefully so as not to damage the adjacent contacts. Remove the suspicious fuse and carefully inspect its plastic case for a break in the metal jumper inside. A rupture means that the element has burnt out and requires replacement.
⚠️ Attention: Before removing any fuse, be sure to turn off the ignition and unplug the electrical appliance protected by the fuse. Operating under voltage may cause short circuits and electric shock.
Protection elements in the engine compartment
Under the hood Nissan Terrano 2018, the power fuse and relay block is located. It is protected from moisture and dust by a dense plastic case, which is secured with latches. It should only be opened in dry weather or in a protected place, as water coming into contact with the contacts can cause corrosion. Inside this block there are elements responsible for the operation of the engine, cooling system and headlights.
The most critical element here is the main fuse, which is responsible for powering the entire engine control system (ECU). If it burns out, it will be impossible to start the engine. Also in this block there are relays for turning on the cooling fan, which operates in severe temperature conditions. When replacing a relay, it is important to maintain the order of the contacts, as incorrect connections can cause the motor to overheat.
In the engine compartment, not only flat fuses are often used, but also cylindrical or screw elements, as well as large relay blocks. To diagnose them, a multimeter or test lamp is required. A simple visual inspection is often not enough here, since damage may be hidden inside the case or in the places where the contacts are soldered. Never replace a blown power fuse with an element with a known higher rating, as this may lead to a fire in the wiring in the engine compartment.
- Salon (comfort)
- Engine compartment (engine)
- Both at the same time
- I don't know where to look
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the fuse
The process of replacing a blown fuse does not require special skills and can be done independently in a few minutes. The main rule is to use an element with exactly the same value as the original one. Replacing with a more powerful element is strictly prohibited, as this deprives the circuit of protection and creates a risk of fire. Use only original parts Nissan or high-quality analogues of proven brands.
☑️ Instructions for safe replacement
First, find the burnt out element. If you do not know which fuse is responsible for a non-working device, use a multimeter in continuity mode or a test lamp. Touch the probes to the metal contacts on top of the fuse. If the lamp lights up or the multimeter makes a beep, then the circuit is intact. If there is no response, the fuse has blown.
Remove the faulty element using a plastic spatula, which is usually attached to the unit cover or in a special compartment. Gently pull it up, being careful not to tilt it, so as not to damage the contacts in the socket. Insert the new fuse until it clicks. Make sure it fits snugly and doesn't wobble. After this, turn on the ignition and check the operation of the device.
⚠️ Warning: If a new fuse blows immediately after installation, this indicates a serious problem with the wiring or the device itself. In this case, further replacement of fuses is useless and dangerous. It is necessary to contact an auto electrician to diagnose the short circuit.
Keep blown fuses in a separate bag. Sometimes the cause of the malfunction can be determined by the nature of the melting: a fusible body indicates an overload, and melted edges of the case indicate a short circuit or poor contact in the socket.
Diagnosing problems with relays and contacts
Sometimes the problem is not the fuse itself, but the relay or poor contact in the socket. A relay is an electromagnetic switch that controls high-power circuits. B Nissan Terrano 2018 relays often fail due to vibration or overheating. If the fuse is intact, but the device does not work, try replacing the relay with a known good one (for example, the same power window relay, if it is in the unit).
Poor contact in the fuse socket is a common problem on used cars. Over time, the spring contacts oxidize or bend, losing pressure on the fuse terminals. This leads to heating and unstable operation. For diagnostics, use a multimeter, measuring the voltage at the contacts with the device turned on. If there is voltage, but the device does not work, the problem is within the device itself.
If you notice signs of burning, melted plastic, or darkening around the fuse socket, this is a sign of a serious problem. In such cases, replacing the fuse will not help. It is necessary to replace the fuse box itself or restore the contacts. Ignoring such signs can lead to complete failure of the vehicle's electrical system.
What to do if you don't have the correct fuse rating?
In an emergency, you can temporarily use a lower rated fuse, but only to test the circuit. Never use an item with a higher value. If you don't have the required fuse at hand, you can temporarily use a wire, but this is extremely dangerous and is only allowed for moving the car to the nearest spare parts store.
Prevention and maintenance of the electrical system
Regular inspection of the fuse box helps prevent sudden breakdowns. Once every six months, open the unit cover and check the condition of the contacts for oxidation or corrosion. If you notice a white or greenish coating, carefully clean the contacts with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or a special contact cleaner. Do not use water or harsh chemicals.
It is also recommended to check the condition of the wiring going to the unit. The insulation should not have cracks, signs of overheating or signs of rodents. In winter, when roads are sprinkled with reagents, moisture and salt can penetrate into the engine compartment and cause corrosion. Regular washing of the engine and engine compartment followed by drying will help avoid these problems.
Use a good quality spare set of fuses in the glove compartment. Include elements of the main ratings: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30 Amps. This will allow you to quickly fix the problem on the road, without depending on the availability of specialized stores. Remember that prevention is always cheaper and safer than repairing the consequences of a short circuit.
Regularly checking contacts and having a set of spare fuses will ensure that you are not left on the road due to a minor electrical fault.
Frequently asked questions from Nissan Terrano 2018 owners
Why does the cigarette lighter fuse blow immediately after replacement?
This indicates a short circuit in the cigarette lighter circuit or connected device. Check if the charger cable is damaged or if you have shorted the contacts inside the socket. If everything is fine with the external equipment, the problem may be in the car's wiring itself.
Is it possible to replace the fuse with a more powerful one if it blows frequently?
Absolutely not. Installing a fuse with a higher rating will deprive the circuit of protection. If there is an overload, it will not be the fuse that will burn out, but the wiring, which can lead to a fire in the car.
Where can I find the fuse diagram if the sticker on the cover has worn off?
The diagram can be found in the vehicle's owner's manual in the "Electrical Equipment" section. Also, current diagrams are available on specialized owner forums Nissan Terrano or on official spare parts websites.
What to do if the block does not have the required fuse?
You can temporarily use a fuse with a lower rating, but only to check the operation of the circuit. If it burns out immediately, it means the load is too great. A wire can be used to temporarily move a vehicle, but this is extremely dangerous.
How to determine that a relay has burned out and not a fuse?
If the fuse is intact, but the device does not work, and when you turn it on you do not hear the characteristic click of the relay, most likely the problem is in it. Try replacing the relay with a similar one from another unit (if it matches the contacts).