In this article, we will explore the importance of the 2018 Ford Explorer fuse box diagram, outlining methods to access it, and troubleshooting common issues associated with the fuse box.
Ford Explorer owners, familiarizing themselves with the fuse box diagram is an indispensable task. This diagram serves as a key reference, allowing owners to effectively identify and address electrical problems that may arise.
By understanding the layout and functionality of the fuse box, owners gain the knowledge needed to troubleshoot issues and ensure the smooth operation of their SUV’s electrical system.
Note: All information contained in this Quick Reference Guide was accurate at the time of duplication. For detailed operating and safety information, please consult your Owner’s Manual.
Table of Contents
Why Fuse Box Diagram is important?
The fuse box diagram in the 2018 Ford Explorer holds significant importance for owners. Acting as a central hub, the fuse box houses fuses that protect electrical circuits. Its main purpose is to safeguard the SUV’s electrical system by preventing excessive current flow and protecting components from damage. When an overload or short circuit occurs, a fuse blows, interrupting electricity flow. This prevents further damage and ensures faults don’t affect other components.
The fuse box diagram is crucial as it helps owners understand the layout and arrangement of fuses. It visually represents fuse ratings and positions, making it easy to identify and locate the right fuses for specific components. Understanding the fuse box diagram empowers owners to maintain their vehicle’s electrical integrity and effectively address any issues.
What to do before changing the fuses?
Before proceeding to change the fuses in your Explorer, it is crucial to follow these precautions to ensure your safety and prevent any potential electrical accidents.
- When dealing with high-current fuses, the first and foremost guideline is to disconnect the battery.
- After completing the fuse replacement, it is crucial to remember to replace the cover of the power distribution box before reconnecting the battery or refilling fluid reservoirs.
- It is imperative to always replace a fuse with one that matches the exact amperage rating specified. Using a fuse with a higher amperage rating can have severe consequences, including extensive wire damage and, in extreme cases, the potential for a fire hazard.
Note: The respective vehicle owner's manual will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. It's important to go through owner's manual for the exact location and identification of the fuse box in your vehicle, as the location can vary slightly depending on the trim level or optional features.
2018 Ford Explorer Fuse Box Diagram (Power Distribution Box)
The power distribution box, located in the engine compartment, is the designated housing for high-current fuses that act as crucial protectors for the primary electrical systems of your vehicle. These fuses play a pivotal role in safeguarding the systems from overloads, ensuring their smooth operation, and preventing any potential damage from occurring.

1Micro 2 fuse / 2M-case fuse / 3J-case fuse
Fuse or Relay Number | Fuse Rating | Protected Component |
1 | 20A1 | Powertrain control module power. |
2 | 20A1 | Engine emissions (MIL). |
3 | 20A1 | A/C clutch control relay coil. Variable Air Conditioning Compressor. Active grille shutters. |
4 | 20A1 | Ignition coils. |
5 | — | Not used. |
6 | — | Not used. |
7 | — | Not used. |
8 | — | Not used. |
9 | — | Not used. |
10 | 15A1 | Heated mirrors. |
11 | — | Not used. |
12 | 40A2 | Heated rear window. |
13 | — | Not used. |
14 | — | Powertrain control module relay. |
15 | 20A1 | Horn relay power. |
16 | 10A1 | A/C clutch relay power. |
17 | — | Rear heated window and heated mirrors relay. |
18 | — | Rear blower motor relay. |
19 | — | Not used. |
20 | — | Left-hand side cooling fan relay. |
21 | — | Cooling fans series/parallel relay. |
22 | 25A2 | Electronic fan relay 2. |
23 | — | Not used. |
24 | — | Right-hand side electronic cooling fan 3 relay. |
25 | — | Not used. |
26 | 30A2 | Anti-lock brake system valves. |
27 | 30A2 | Trailer tow battery charge relay power. |
28 | — | Not used. |
29 | — | Starter relay. |
30 | — | Not used. |
31 | 10A1 | Electric power-assisted steering. |
32 | 10A1 | Anti-lock brake system module. |
33 | 10A1 | Powertrain control module (Ignition Switch Position – Run). |
34 | 10A1 | Blind spot information system. Adaptive cruise control. Front view camera. Rear camera. |
35 | — | Not used. |
36 | — | Blower motor relay. |
37 | — | Trailer tow battery charge relay. |
38 | — | A/C compressor clutch relay. |
39 | — | Horn relay. |
40 | — | Not used. |
41 | 40A2 | Rear blower motor. |
42 | — | Not used. |
43 | 40A2 | Front blower motor. |
44 | 50A3 | Voltage quality module bus. |
45 | 40A3 | Electronic fan relay 1. |
46 | 30A3 | Trailer tow brake controller. |
47 | — | Not used. |
48 | 50A3 | Body control module RP1 bus. |
49 | — | Not used. |
50 | 50A3 | Body control module RP2 bus. |
51 | 50A3 | Electronic fan relay 3. |
52 | 60A3 | Anti-lock brake system pump. |
53 | — | Not used. |
54 | — | Not used. |
55 | — | Not used. |
56 | 40A2 | Power inverter. |
57 | — | Not used. |
58 | — | Not used. |
59 | — | Not used. |
60 | 20A2 | Powerpoint (front console bin). |
61 | — | Not used. |
62 | 20A2 | Powerpoint (instrument panel). |
63 | 30A2 | Fuel pump. |
64 | — | Not used. |
65 | 20A2 | Powerpoint (2nd row) (without USB charger). |
66 | — | Not used. |
67 | 20A2 | Powerpoint (cargo area). |
68 | — | Not used. |
69 | 30A2 | Power liftgate. |
70 | 15A2 | Trailer tow left-hand and right-hand stop and direction indicator lamps. |
71 | — | Not used. |
72 | 30A2 | Heated/cooled seats. |
73 | 30A2 | Driver seat module. Driver seat power. |
74 | 30A2 | Passenger seat power. |
75 | 30A2 | Front wiper motor. |
76 | — | Not used. |
77 | — | Not used. |
78 | 30A2 | 3rd-row power folding seat module relay. |
79 | 30A2 | Starter relay. |
80 | — | Not used. |
81 | 10A1 | Trailer tow backup lamp relay. |
82 | 20A2 | Steering column lock (if equipped). |
83 | 10A1 | Brake on/off switch. |
84 | — | Not used. |
85 | 5A1 | 2nd row USB charger (if equipped). |
86 | — | Not used. |
87 | — | Not used. |
88 | — | Not used. |
89 | — | Not used. |
90 | — | Not used. |
91 | — | Not used. |
92 | 15A1 | Multi-contour seat module relay. |
93 | 10A1 | Alternator sense. |
94 | 15A1 | Rear washer relay. |
95 | 15A1 | Rear wiper relay. |
96 | 10A1 | Powertrain control module relay coil power. |
97 | 5A1 | Rain sensor. |
98 | 20A1 | 2nd-row seat motors. |
99 | 20A1 | Trailer tow parking lamp relay. |
2018 Ford Explorer Fuse Box Diagram (Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel)
The fuse panel in the Passenger Compartment is cleverly designed to be positioned beneath the dashboard, specifically on the left-hand side of the steering wheel. Being situated close to the dashboard enables swift and trouble-free examination, replacement, or troubleshooting of the fuses. Whether you come across an electrical issue or need to alter the fuses, the fuse panel’s convenient positioning guarantees that you can efficiently carry out these tasks without any unnecessary complications.

4Micro 2 fuse / 5Micro 3 fuse / 6Circuit breaker
Fuse or Relay Number | Fuse Rating | Protected Components |
1 | — | Not used. |
2 | 7.5A4 | Memory seat switch (lumbar power). |
3 | 20A4 | Driver unlock relay. |
4 | 5A4 | Aftermarket electronic brake controller. |
5 | 20A4 | Rear heated seat module. |
6 | — | Not used. |
7 | — | Not used. |
8 | — | Not used. |
9 | — | Not used. |
10 | 5A5 | Embedded modem. Hands free liftgate. |
11 | 5A5 | Rear climate control module. Securicode™ keyless entry keypad. Power liftgate module. |
12 | 7.5A5 | Front climate control module. |
13 | 7.5A5 | Instrument cluster. Smart data link. Steering column control module. |
14 | 10A5 | Extended power module. |
15 | 10A5 | Smart datalink connector power. Heads up display. |
16 | — | Not used. |
17 | 5A5 | Electronic finish panel. |
18 | 5A5 | Push button start switch. Ignition switch. Key inhibit. |
19 | 7.5A5 | Transmission control switch. |
20 | — | Not used. |
21 | 5A5 | Terrain management switch. Heads up display. Humidity sensor. |
22 | 5A5 | Occupant classification sensor. |
23 | 10A4 | Delayed accessory power. Power windows. Moonroof. Folding mirror relay. DC inverter. Window/moonroof switch illumination. |
24 | 20A4 | Central lock relay. |
25 | 30A4 | Left-hand front smart window motor. Door zone module. |
26 | 30A4 | Right-hand front smart window motor. Door zone module. |
27 | 30A4 | Moonroof. |
28 | 20A4 | Sony amplifier – 10 channel. |
29 | 30A4 | Sony amplifier – 14 channel. |
30 | — | Not used. |
31 | — | Not used. |
32 | 10A4 | SYNC module. GPS module. Display. Radio frequency receiver. |
33 | 20A4 | Radio. |
34 | 30A4 | Starter relay. |
35 | 5A4 | Restraints control module. Extended power module. |
36 | 15A4 | Lane departure warning module. Auto high beam. EC mirrors. Rear heated seats. |
37 | 20A4 | Heated steering wheel. |
38 | 30A6 | Left-hand front window motor. Rear power window motors. |
For more information on troubleshooting car electrical issues, you can refer to our "How do you check car fuses without removing them?" article to gain further insights and guidance. With in-depth information on common causes of fuse failures and offers effective solutions. Enhance your understanding of car electrical systems and address fuse-related challenges with confidence.
Conclusion
To summarize, the fuse box diagram for the 2018 Ford Explorer serves as a valuable resource, empowering owners to effectively troubleshoot electrical problems and ensure the smooth operation of their vehicle’s electrical system. Understanding the layout and rating of fuses allows for accurate identification and replacement of blown fuses, minimizing downtime and potential damage.
It is important to recognize that electrical systems can be complex, and certain issues may require professional expertise. If you encounter intricate electrical problems or feel uncertain about handling them yourself, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of a qualified mechanic or electrician. They possess the necessary knowledge and experience to diagnose and address complex electrical issues safely and efficiently.