Fuse Color Code Chart
Identify any automotive blade fuse by color or amperage — a fast reference for every fuse in your fuse box.
Fuse Color Guide
Color or amps → circuit type
How It Works
Blade fuses (ATO/ATC, mini, and maxi) follow a standardised color-to-amperage code. The color uniquely identifies the amperage rating across all vehicles using the SAE/IEC standard.
How to Use This Calculator
- Locate the blown or suspect fuse in the fuse box.
- Note the fuse color or the number printed on top.
- Select the color from the dropdown, or type the amperage in the number field.
- Click Look Up — the amperage and typical circuit appear.
- Replace only with the exact same amperage — never upsize a fuse.
Worked Example
Reference Table
| Color | Amperage | Common Application | Fuse Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violet/Purple | 3A | Instrument sub-circuits | Mini |
| Pink | 4A | Sensor circuits | Mini |
| Tan/Beige | 5A | Clock, radio memory | Mini/ATO |
| Brown | 7.5A | Parking lights | Mini/ATO |
| Red | 10A | Interior lights | Mini/ATO |
| Blue | 15A | Accessories, audio | Mini/ATO |
| Yellow | 20A | Wipers, fans | Mini/ATO |
| Clear/White | 25A | ABS sub-circuit | ATO |
| Green | 30A | Fuel pump, AC | ATO |
| Orange | 40A | Cooling fan | Maxi |
| Red (Maxi) | 50A | Large motors | Maxi |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a higher-rated fuse if I don’t have the right one?
Never. The fuse protects the wiring, not the component. A higher-rated fuse allows excess current that can start a wiring fire. If you don’t have the right amperage, don’t drive until you do.
Why does my car blow the same fuse repeatedly?
A fuse blows because of excess current draw in that circuit. Replacing it is a temporary fix. Find the root cause: short circuit, failing motor (wiper, window, etc.), or overloaded circuit with aftermarket accessories.
Are mini fuses and standard ATO fuses interchangeable?
No — mini fuses are physically smaller and cannot fit ATO sockets (and vice versa). However, the color code and amperage ratings are the same, so a mini blue 15A and an ATO blue 15A have the same protection level.
What do the numbers printed on a fuse mean?
The number on top of the fuse body is the amperage rating. On mini fuses, this is often printed or molded in. The color gives the same information but the printed number is definitive if you are unsure of the color.
