Every electrical circuit in your vehicle needs overcurrent protection. Eaton Bussmann is the industry standard for automotive fuses and fuse blocks - here's how to choose the right protection for every application.
Automotive Fuse Types Explained
Blade Fuses (Most Common)
The standard for modern vehicles since the 1980s. Color-coded by amperage for easy identification.
- Mini blade (ATM): Smallest size, used in compact fuse boxes on motorcycles and modern cars
- Standard blade (ATC/ATO): Most common size for vehicles 1980-present. ATC has a closed body; ATO is open - both are interchangeable
- Maxi blade (APX): High-current applications (30-100A) - main fuse box feeds, fan relays, alternator circuits
Blade Fuse Color Code
| Color | Amperage |
|---|---|
| Gray | 2A |
| Violet | 3A |
| Pink | 4A |
| Tan | 5A |
| Brown | 7.5A |
| Red | 10A |
| Blue | 15A |
| Yellow | 20A |
| Clear/White | 25A |
| Green | 30A |
| Orange | 40A (Maxi) |
| Red (Maxi) | 50A |
ANL Fuses (High-Current)
Bolt-down fuses for very high current applications - battery cables, inverter feeds, audio amplifiers, winches. Available from 80A to 500A. Must be mounted within 18 inches of the battery.
MIDI Fuses
Mid-range between blade and ANL. 30-200A range. Common in automotive audio, solar charge controller wiring, and auxiliary battery systems.
Glass Tube Fuses (AGC/AGU)
Older format still used in some marine applications, vintage vehicles, and aftermarket accessories. AGC is the standard glass fuse; AGU is a larger diameter version used in high-current inline fuse holders.
Eaton Bussmann Fuse Blocks
ATC/ATO Blade Fuse Blocks
Multi-circuit fuse distribution blocks for custom wiring. Available in 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12-circuit versions. Essential for any custom build - provide a clean, organized power distribution point for accessories.
MIDI/ANL Fuse Holders
Inline holders for high-current feeds. Waterproof options available for underhood and exterior mounting. Always use a proper holder - never run high-current cable without overcurrent protection.
Fuse Sizing Rules
- Fuse the wire, not the device - size the fuse to protect the wire gauge, not the accessory
- Wire sizing guide: 20 AWG = 5A max, 18 AWG = 10A, 16 AWG = 15A, 14 AWG = 20A, 12 AWG = 30A, 10 AWG = 40A
- Place fuses as close to the power source (battery) as practical - within 18 inches for ANL/MIDI
- Never replace a blown fuse with a higher-rated fuse - find the short first
Shop Eaton Bussmann Fuses & Fuse Blocks
We carry the complete Eaton Bussmann lineup including blade fuses, ANL fuses, MIDI fuses, fuse blocks, and inline fuse holders.
