The 1987–1991 Ford F-150 models are known for their bold design and long-lasting dependability. One of the best things about this generation is consistency—Ford used the exact same fuse box layout for every model year from 1987 to 1991. That means no matter which “Bricknose” F-150 you drive, the fuse setup is identical.
If your power windows stop working or a light goes out, checking the fuses should be your first move. This guide gives you the clear, easy-to-read fuse box diagram you need for your 1987–1991 F-150—no more guessing or struggling with faded labels. Quickly find a blown fuse, fix the issue, and keep your classic truck running strong for years to come.
Table of Contents
Fuse Box Location
All the Ford F-150 models from year 1987 to 1991 consist only one fuse box located in the Interior Fuse panel. The diagram and fuse layout are displayed below.
Tip: Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before checking fuses to avoid short circuits.
Interior Fuse Panel
| Type | Position | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fuse ATO 15A | 1 | Stoplights, Hazard Lights, Speed Control |
| Circuit breaker MAXI | 2 | Circuit Breaker: Windshield Wiper Motor |
| Fuse ATO– | 3 | – |
| Fuse ATO 15A | 4 | Main Light Switch, Exterior Lights, Instrument Panel Illumination |
| Fuse ATO 15A | 5 | Turn Signals, Back-Up Lights, Overdrive Transmission, Roof Map Light |
| Fuse ATO 15A | 6 | Speed Control, Accessories & 4WD, Auxiliary Battery Control, Digital Clock, Rear Window Defogger, Feedback Carburetor Control (4.9L), Windshield Wiper Switch, Electronic Shift Control Module, Rear Anti-Lock Brakes |
| Fuse ATO– | 7 | – |
| Fuse ATO 15A | 8 | Courtesy Lights, Dome Lights, Cargo Light, Glove Box Light, Warning Buzzer, Radio |
| Fuse ATO 30A | 9 | Heater or A/C-Heater |
| Fuse ATO 5A | 10 | Instrument Illumination (Radio, Instrument Cluster, Wiper and Washer Switch, Overdrive Switch, 4WD Shift Control Switch, A/C-Heater Control, Rear Window Defogger, Ashtray, Cigarette Lighter), Main Light Switch, Clock Dimming, Radio Display Dimming |
| Fuse ATO 20A | 10 | Rear Anti-Lock Brakes |
| Fuse ATO 15A | 11 | Radio & Clock Illumination, Headlight Switch Illumination |
| Fuse ATO 10A | 11 | Radio |
| Circuit breaker ATO | 12 | Circuit Breaker: Power Door Locks |
| Fuse ATO 25A | 12 | Transfer Case Control |
| Fuse ATO 25A | 12 | Tailgate Power Window, Power Mirrors |
| Fuse ATO 5A | 13 | Instrument Panel Illumination |
| Circuit breaker ATO | 14 | Circuit Breaker: Power Windows |
| Fuse ATO 25A | 14 | Tailgate Power Window |
| Fuse ATO 10A | 15 | Auxiliary Fuel Tank, Switch |
| Fuse ATO 30A | 16 | Horn Relay (with Cruise Control), Horn Relay Jumper (without Cruise Control), Cigarette Lighter, Speed Control, Ashtray Illumination |
| Fuse ATO 20A | 16 | Horn, Cigarette Lighter |
| Fuse ATO 10A | 16 | Horn |
| Fuse ATO 5A | 17 | Instrument Illumination, Clock & Radio Display Dimming |
| Fuse ATO 20A | 17 | Rear Anti-Lock Brakes |
| Fuse ATO 15A | 18 | Cluster, Safety Belt Buzzer, Warning Indicators, Tachometer, Diesel Glow Plug Control [6.9L, 7.3L], Diesel Indicators [6.9L, 7.3L], Electronic Engine Control (EEC), Carburetor Circuits, Choke Heater, Electric Fuel Pump Control [7.5L], Dual Brake Warning Diode-Resistor, Low Vacuum Warning Switch [6.9L, 7.3L] |
Tip: Some high-amperage fuses may look slightly different depending on the model year and trim. Always verify the fuse type before replacing.
Fuse Replacement Tips / Safety Precautions
- Always disconnect the negative battery terminal before removing fuses.
- Never replace a blown fuse with a higher amp rating — this can damage wiring or cause a fire.
- Use a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers for safety.
- Label replaced fuses for future reference.
Why does the brake light fuse blow in the F-150?
Common causes include:
🔌 Short circuit: Damaged or frayed wires touching metal parts.
💡 Defective brake bulbs: Burned-out or faulty bulbs drawing excess current.
⚙️ Faulty brake light switch: A bad switch causing current spikes or shorts.
🔧 Incorrect fuse: Using a lower-amp fuse than Ford recommends.
Why does the radio fuse blow in an F-150?
Common reasons include:
🔌 Short circuit: Damaged or frayed wires, or an internal radio short.
🎚️ Added accessories: Extra devices (like amplifiers) overloading the same circuit.
⚡ Incorrect fuse: Using a lower-amp fuse than Ford recommends.
📻 Faulty radio: Internal defect causing excess current draw.
🔋 Electrical issues: Voltage spikes or alternator problems affecting the system.
Why does the cigarette lighter (power socket) fuse blow in an F-150?
Common causes include:
⚡ Overload: Plugging in high-draw devices like compressors or power inverters.
🔌 Short circuit: Damaged or frayed wires touching metal parts.
🔋 Faulty adapters: Cheap or defective chargers causing excess current flow.
🔧 Incorrect fuse: Using a lower-amp fuse than Ford specifies.
Why does the horn fuse blow in an F-150?
Common causes include:
🔌 Short circuit: Damaged or exposed wiring, often around the steering wheel.
📣 Defective horn: Internal fault or shorted coil drawing too much current.
🔘 Faulty horn switch: Stuck or failed switch causing continuous current flow.
