What could be causing the fuse in my 1995 Buick Riviera's dash lights to blow every time I put a new one in?

Answer 1

Fuses That "Blow" Repeatedly

Without being able to "hands on" troubleshoot the circuit served by the repeatedly blowing fuse, no one can identify the specific cause/defect which is causing your problem. However, the cause will be found to be a "short circuit," or "overload" condition in the circuit for which the fuse continues to "blow."

The following generic answer applies to any electrical circuit, whether in a vehicle or in a building, or whether alternating current [AC] or direct current [DC].

Fuses [and Circuit Breakers] are safety devices designed and installed in electrical circuits TO PROTECT the conductors [wires] and other components from short circuit conditions and/or overload conditions which can cause extreme flow of electrical current [measured in Amperes], and overheating of the conductors that can result in damage to the insulation and the conductors. And in a worst case, the probability of a FIRE which could destroy the vehicle, house, or other structure in which the circuit is located.

When a fuse [and replacement fuses, or "tripping" Circuit Breakers] "blow," especially if it happens repeatedly, is an indication of an UNSAFE CONDITION in that circuit, usually a short.

The fuse or circuit breaker is doing what it was designed, intended, and installed to do, protect the components of the circuit which it serves.

The proper "fix" is for a qualified technician, who knows what he or she is doing, to troubleshoot the involved circuit, find and identify the defect, and make proper repair [s], BEFORE replacing the fuse again [with the properly sized fuse or before resetting a circuit breaker].

Some ignorant few will suggest installing a larger fuse or breaker to solve the problem, BUT that will only increase the hazard, not correct it. Do not follow "bad" advice and install a larger fuse in a misguided attempt to correct the problem. To install an over-sized fuse would almost guarantee damage to the wiring and an electrical system fire.