Kia Picanto: Maintenance / Fuses

Figure 1. Blade-type fuse

Figure 2. Cartridge-type fuse

Figure 3. Multi-fuse

Figure 4. BFT fuse

In each illustration, the left-hand example is a normal fuse and the right-hand example is a blown fuse.

Fuses protect the Kia Picanto’s electrical system from damage caused by excessive current.

The vehicle has two or three fuse panels. One is located in the driver’s-side panel bolster; the others are in the engine compartment near the battery.

If a light, accessory or control stops working, check the fuse for the affected circuit. A blown fuse has a melted element inside.

If the electrical system is not working, begin by checking the driver’s-side fuse panel.

Before replacing a blown fuse, disconnect the negative battery cable.

Always fit a replacement fuse with the same rating as the original.

If the replacement fuse blows, there may be a fault in the electrical system. Stop using the affected system and have the vehicle inspected promptly by a qualified workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

The Kia Picanto uses three types of fuses: blade fuses for lower current ratings, cartridge fuses and multi-fuses for higher current ratings.

Warning

Fuse replacement

• Replace a fuse only with another fuse of the same rating.

• A fuse with a higher rating can damage the electrical system and may cause a fire.

• Never use wire or aluminium foil in place of the correct fuse, even as a temporary repair. This can cause extensive wiring damage and may start a fire.

• Do not modify the vehicle’s electrical wiring or add to it arbitrarily.

Caution

Do not remove fuses with a screwdriver or another metal object. Doing so may cause a short circuit and damage the electrical system.

Note

• Before replacing a fuse, switch the ignition off, turn off all electrical devices and disconnect the negative battery terminal.

• The fuse and relay panel label in your vehicle may not match the illustration exactly; equipment can vary.

Caution

• When fitting a replacement fuse or relay, make sure it sits securely in its clips. A loose connection can damage the wiring or electrical system and may cause a fire.

• Do not remove fuses, relays or terminals secured with bolts or nuts. They may not be refitted securely, creating a fire risk. If a bolted or nutted fuse, relay or terminal has blown, have it inspected by a qualified workshop. Kia recommends contacting an authorised Kia dealer or service partner.

• Do not insert anything other than the correct fuse or relay into a fuse or relay terminal. Tools or wiring can cause poor contact and system malfunction.

• Do not insert a screwdriver or aftermarket wiring into a terminal intended only for a fuse or relay. Poor contact can damage or burn the vehicle’s interior wiring and electrical system.

• If a wire is connected directly to the taillight, or a bulb with a rating above the specified capacity is installed for a trailer or other equipment, the interior junction block may burn out.

Caution

Visually check that the battery cover is securely closed. If it is not fully closed, moisture can enter the system and damage electrical components.

Note

Do not use improvised wiring when installing equipment

Improvised wiring in the Kia Picanto can cause faults, damage the vehicle and affect its performance.

Unapproved wiring used to install infotainment equipment, an alarm, remote engine control, a car phone or a radio can damage the vehicle or cause a fire.

Note

Vehicle modifications are prohibited

Do not attempt to modify the vehicle. Modifications may be illegal and can affect its performance, durability and safety. The warranty does not cover problems caused by modifications.

Unauthorised electrical equipment—including lamps, dashboard cameras, diagnostic tools and communication devices—can create safety risks. It may cause vehicle malfunctions, wiring or connector damage, battery discharge or fire.

Note

Precautions for window tinting

Window tint, particularly metallic film, can interfere with communications and radio reception. It may also disrupt the automatic lighting system by significantly changing the amount of light inside the vehicle. The solution used during installation can seep into electrical or electronic devices and cause faults or failure.

• Replacing an Inner Panel Fuse. Replacing an Engine-Compartment Fuse. Multi-Fuse