I have a 2000 Dodge Caravan Minivan that is blowing a 20Amp fuse when I plug my GPS or mobile phone into power outlet. If I plug either of these in before I crank the van then it will usually work. If I plug in after the engine is running the fuse will blow. What could be the problem
Answers from the Automotive Experts
Judy,
By your description, you may have a parasitic voltage draw or a short from your wiring harness which includes your auxiliary power outlets. You also may be pulling more amps than allowed from your power outlet, which causes this fuse to blow. When the car is off and you plug the device in, it may not blow due to the fact that there is little current flowing through your harness until start-up. Again, you may need to have a mechanic search for a short in that wire harness.
Hi Judy!
A blown fuse indicates that there is a short somewhere in the wiring to the power outlet. Sometimes the outlets themselves are shorted. Why it does it only if you plug in after the engine is running is a little curious, but either way there is a short in the circuit somewhere.
Have a certified technician that is good with electrical work check it out. She will trace the circuit and test it to find the short.
Good luck!
Bogi Lateiner
180 Degrees Automotive
http://www.180auto.com/