Jeep Compass Fuse Box Diagram: Locations and Layout
The Jeep Compass fuse box diagram helps you locate the engine compartment Power Distribution Center and the interior fuse panel. Identifying the correct fuse is essential for troubleshooting electrical failures, resetting the ECU, or addressing a check engine light by checking protected circuits before using an OBD-II scanner for deeper diagnostics.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Map out electrical circuits for lighting, ignition, and cabin accessories.
- Identify the Power Distribution Center located under the hood near the battery.
- Always disconnect the battery before replacing high-amperage fuses or relays.
- Use the diagram to isolate circuits before performing expensive mechanical repairs.
- Essential tool for resolving sudden power loss in infotainment or safety systems.
Dealing with electrical glitches in your SUV can be a source of significant frustration, but having a clear 2019 jeep compass fuse box diagram on hand simplifies the diagnostic process immensely. Whether your radio has suddenly gone silent, your headlights are flickering, or a specific sensor is triggering a check engine light, the fuse box is almost always the first place you should look. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth breakdown of the fuse locations, amperage ratings, and functional descriptions for this specific model year. By understanding the layout of your electrical protection system, you can perform quick DIY repairs, save money on professional diagnostics, and gain a better understanding of your vehicle’s internal logic.
The 2019 Jeep Compass typically features two primary fuse locations: the Power Distribution Center (PDC) located in the engine compartment and the Interior Fuse Panel located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Some trim levels may also include a smaller rear fuse unit near the battery or in the cargo area.
Decoding the 2019 Jeep Compass Fuse Box Layout
The electrical architecture of the 2019 Jeep Compass relies on a series of specialized fuses and relays designed to protect sensitive electronics, such as the ECU (Engine Control Unit), from power surges. The main diagram for this vehicle is divided into two distinct sections. The engine compartment panel handles high-current applications like the cooling fan, starter motor, and ABS pump. Conversely, the interior panel manages lower-current cabin features, including the instrument cluster, USB ports, and interior lighting.
When looking at the 2019 jeep compass fuse box diagram, you will notice three main types of fuses. Mini fuses are the most common, used for general electronics. J-Case fuses are larger, square-shaped components designed for heavy-duty circuits like the heater blower. Finally, you will see various relays—rectangular blocks that act as electronically controlled switches. The diagram is color-coded by amperage: for instance, a 10-amp fuse is almost always red, a 15-amp fuse is blue, and a 20-amp fuse is yellow. Identifying these by color and position (labeled with an ‘F’ or ‘R’ prefix followed by a number) is essential for accurate troubleshooting.
The engine compartment fuse box is situated next to the battery. It is protected by a plastic cover that contains a printed map on the underside. However, this map is often abbreviated, which is why a detailed external diagram is necessary. This panel is critical because it houses the fuse for the OBD-II port power and various powertrain sensors. If your vehicle fails to communicate with a scan tool, checking the specific fuse in this PDC is the mandatory first step.
Step-by-Step Guide to Reading and Replacing Fuses
Navigating the electrical system requires a methodical approach to ensure safety and accuracy. Follow these steps to interpret the diagram and replace a faulty component.
- ✓ Step 1: Preparation and Safety: Ensure the ignition is completely off and the key is removed. Engage the parking brake. If you are working on high-current fuses in the engine bay, it is often recommended to disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental shorts.
- ✓ Step 2: Locate the Correct Panel: Identify which system is failing. If the issue is external (lights, wipers, engine), go to the engine compartment. If it is internal (infotainment, power seats, windows), locate the panel under the driver’s side dashboard, typically near the steering column.
- ✓ Step 3: Access the Fuse Box: For the engine panel, unlatch the plastic clips on the side of the cover and lift it straight up. For the interior panel, you may need to remove a small trim piece or cover plate. Use a plastic trim tool to avoid scratching the dashboard.
- ✓ Step 4: Identify the Target Fuse: Refer to your 2019 jeep compass fuse box diagram to find the number associated with the malfunctioning circuit. For example, if the 12V power outlet is dead, look for the fuse labeled “Power Outlet” or “Cigar Lighter” in the legend.
- ✓ Step 5: Visual and Physical Inspection: Use the fuse puller tool (usually located inside the engine compartment fuse box cover) to remove the suspect fuse. Hold it up to a light source. If the internal metal wire is broken or if the plastic casing is charred, the fuse is blown.
- ✓ Step 6: Confirm with a Multimeter: Sometimes a fuse looks intact but has a microscopic hairline fracture. Set your multimeter to the continuity setting and touch the probes to the two small metal contact points on top of the fuse. A “beep” indicates a good fuse; silence indicates a bad one.
- ✓ Step 7: Install the Replacement: Always replace a blown fuse with one of the exact same amperage rating. Inserting a higher-amp fuse can lead to melted wires or even a vehicle fire, as the fuse will no longer be the “weakest link” in the circuit.
- ✓ Step 8: Re-Test the System: Turn on the ignition and test the component. If the fuse blows again immediately, you have a short circuit further down the line that requires professional diagnostic equipment.
Always keep a small kit of spare mini and J-Case fuses in your glovebox. Automotive manufacturers usually provide a few spares in the PDC, but these are often used up during the vehicle’s first few years of service. A cheap aftermarket kit can save you from being stranded at night without headlights.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
A common problem for owners is the “no communication” error when plugging in an OBD-II scanner. Often, users assume the ECU is dead, but the 2019 jeep compass fuse box diagram reveals that the OBD-II port often shares a fuse with the cigarette lighter or interior lights. If that fuse blows, your diagnostic tool won’t receive power, making it impossible to read a diagnostic code or reset a check engine light.
Another frequent issue involves the cooling fan fuse. If you notice your temperature gauge rising while idling, but it drops once you start moving, the cooling fan may not be engaging. Before assuming the fan motor is burnt out, check the high-amperage fuse in the engine compartment. This circuit is vital for maintaining proper coolant flow and preventing engine overheating. If this fuse is blown, it could be a sign that the fan motor is drawing too much current due to age or debris.
Never replace a fuse with a piece of foil, a paperclip, or a higher-rated fuse. This bypasses the safety mechanism and can lead to a catastrophic electrical fire or permanent damage to the expensive ECU.
Maintenance Tips & Best Practices
Maintaining your vehicle’s electrical health goes beyond just replacing fuses. When you have the hood open to inspect the fuse box, take a moment to perform a visual inspection of other critical components. Check the condition of the accessory belt; if you see cracks or fraying, it may snap and stop the alternator from charging the battery, which can mimic electrical fuse issues. While the timing chain is an internal component not visible during a fuse check, listen for any rattling sounds that might indicate it is stretching, which can cause timing-related diagnostic codes that might mislead you into checking electrical sensors first.
When reconnecting battery terminals after fuse work, ensure you follow the proper torque spec for the terminal nut (usually around 5-7 ft-lbs or 7-10 Nm). A loose terminal can cause intermittent power loss, leading to a “flickering” effect that makes it look like multiple fuses are failing simultaneously. Furthermore, ensure that the fuse box covers are snapped on tightly. Moisture is the enemy of electrical systems; a loose cover can allow road salt or rainwater to enter the PDC, leading to corrosion on the fuse contacts and unpredictable electrical behavior.
If you are dealing with a recurring check engine light and the fuses are all intact, use the OBD-II port to pull the specific diagnostic code. This will tell you if the problem is a blown fuse, a faulty sensor, or a mechanical issue like restricted coolant flow. By combining the information found in a 2019 jeep compass fuse box diagram with basic mechanical awareness, you can maintain your vehicle with confidence and precision.
In conclusion, mastering the 2019 jeep compass fuse box diagram is a vital skill for any owner. It transforms a complex web of wires into a manageable system of protected circuits. By following the safety protocols and step-by-step instructions outlined here, you can resolve most minor electrical issues yourself, ensuring your Compass remains reliable for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Jeep Compass fuse box diagram?
A Jeep Compass fuse box diagram is a visual map that identifies the location, amperage, and function of every fuse and relay in the vehicle. It guides owners and mechanics in locating specific circuits for the ECU or lighting, ensuring that electrical troubleshooting is both precise and time-efficient.
How do you read a Jeep Compass fuse box diagram?
To read the diagram, match the numerical or alphabetical labels found on the physical fuse box cover to the corresponding key in the manual. This layout specifies which component each fuse protects, such as the radio or OBD-II port, allowing you to quickly identify blown fuses by their location.
What are the parts of the Jeep Compass electrical system?
The system consists of the battery, alternator, wiring harnesses, and two primary fuse boxes: the engine compartment Power Distribution Center and the interior panel. These protect sensitive components like the ECU and ensure that high-voltage spikes do not damage the vehicle’s complex electronic control modules or sensors.
Why is the ECU fuse important?
The ECU fuse protects the Engine Control Unit, which is the primary computer for your vehicle. If this fuse blows, the engine may not start or may trigger a check engine light. Checking this fuse is a vital first step when a diagnostic code indicates a communication failure.
What is the difference between a fuse and a relay?
A fuse is a sacrificial link that breaks a circuit during an overcurrent event to prevent electrical fire. A relay is an electromagnetic switch that uses a small current to control a much larger one. Both are mapped on the diagram to help diagnose faults like a check engine light.
How do I use a Jeep Compass fuse box diagram?
Use the diagram to cross-reference an electrical failure with its specific fuse. For instance, if your OBD-II scanner won’t power up, find the fuse assigned to the diagnostic port. This helps you narrow down whether the issue is a simple blown fuse or a more complex wiring fault.
