⚠️ The BCM Hard Reset Procedure
This is a key 10th gen specific electrical consideration that is not covered in standard fuse references.
The Body Control Module (BCM) controls numerous systems — windows, locks, wipers, turn signals, and the push-button start system. The BCM may occasionally experience a communication glitch and stop responding to inputs. Before proceeding with fuse diagnosis, consider this reset procedure:
Reset procedure: Disconnect the negative battery terminal for 10-15 minutes. Reconnect it, start the vehicle, and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes without touching the accelerator pedal. This reboots the BCM and resolves a significant portion of electrical glitches on the 10th gen.
If the issue recurs — there may be a deeper underlying problem. However, this procedure can save diagnostic time.
10th Generation — Civic (2016–2021) FC1/FC2/FC3/FC4 & FK8 Type R
Your 10th gen Civic (FC1 sedan, FC2 coupe, FC3 hatchback, FC4 Si sedan/coupe, FK8 Type R) has two fuse boxes: one in the passenger compartment (under the driver’s side dashboard) and one in the engine compartment (on the passenger side Fender, behind the air filter box).
Key considerations: The 10th gen Civic is heavily reliant on the BCM (Body Control Module). If windows, locks, wipers, or turn signals are inoperative, the BCM may have experienced a communication glitch — not necessarily a fuse issue. A battery reset resolves most such issues. For hatchback or Type R models, some fuse locations differ from the sedan/coupe — refer to the notes provided.
Quick Reference — Where to Find the Fuse Boxes
| Location | Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Under-Hood (Engine Bay) | Passenger side fender, behind the air filter box | Larger than previous generations — includes additional relays for driver-assist systems. The cover clips can be fragile in cold weather — open carefully. |
| Under-Dash (Interior) | Under the steering column, left side — behind a plastic cover | Access is tight — working in this area requires positioning on the back. The cover is secured with one bolt or a release tab. Do not force it. |
Passenger Compartment Fuse Box (Under-Dash)
Location: Under the dashboard, driver’s side — behind the cover panel, left of the steering column.
Most commonly blown fuses on the 10th gen:
| № | Amps | Circuit Protected | Common Failure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | 20 A | Front Cigarette Lighter / 12V Power Outlet | 🔌 The most commonly blown fuse on this generation. Phone chargers, dashcams, and tire inflators are common causes. Honda increased the rating to 20A on the 10th gen to accommodate higher loads. |
| 27 | 20 A | Center Console Power Outlet (Armrest) | Same as #26 — if the armrest 12V socket is inoperative but the front outlet works, this is the likely fuse. |
| 6 | 15 A | Fuel Pump | ⛽ Engine cranks but does not start? Check this first. The fuel pump fuse remains a common no-start cause on the 10th gen. |
| 3 | 10 A | Daytime Running Lights (DRL) | If DRLs are inoperative but headlights function — this is the fuse. Known consideration: aftermarket LED bulbs may cause this fuse to blow. |
| 4 | 10 A | Airbag / SRS Control | ⚠️ SRS light illuminated? If this fuse blows, the airbag system is disabled. Inspection is recommended. |
| 9 | 10 A | Turn Signals / Hazard Lights | Turn signals inoperative? This is the first location to check. Often caused by a trailer wiring short or a faulty flasher relay. |
| 17 | 15 A | Radio / Display Audio | 📻 Infotainment system inoperative? Check this first. The 10th gen head units are known to draw significant current and may blow this fuse. |
| 12 | 10 A | Door Locks / Security System | If the key fob does not lock/unlock and the battery is confirmed good — check this fuse. |
Engine Compartment Fuse Box (Under-Hood)
Location: Passenger side fender, behind the air filter box.
These are the higher-amperage fuses — cooling, ABS, EPS, and the main battery fuse.
| № | Amps | Circuit Protected | Common Failure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-Fuse | 80 A / 120 A | Main Battery Fuse (bolted) | 🔧 This fuse is secured with bolts. Loosen the two screws before removal. Typically blows only when battery polarity is reversed during jump-start procedures. On the 10th gen, the main fuse is 120A on most trims. |
| 4 | 30 A | Radiator Fan | 🌡️ Engine overheating in traffic with A/C on? If this fuse blows, the fan will not operate. The 1.5T engines run hot — address this promptly. |
| 5 | 30 A | Condenser Fan | Works in conjunction with the radiator fan. If both are inoperative, check the A/C relay — a known failure point on the 10th gen. |
| 1 | 70 A | Electric Power Steering (EPS) | 🔄 Heavy steering feel? This fuse or the EPS module may be the cause. If the fuse is intact, the EPS motor may require inspection. |
| 2 | 15 A | ACG (Alternator / Generator) | 🔋 Important circuit. If this fuse blows, the battery will not charge. The vehicle may run until the battery is depleted. Check this if the battery light is illuminated but the alternator tests good. |
| 12 | 15 A | Ignition Coils | 🔥 Misfire or rough idle? This fuse protects all four coils. Check it if misfire codes are present. |
| 15 | 30 A | ABS Pump (VSA) | If the ABS light is illuminated and the pump does not prime, check this fuse. Common issue: the ABS module can fail on 10th gen Civics. |
Important Notes — 10th Gen Specific Electrical Issues
⚠️ BCM Communication Glitch — Reset Before Fuse Diagnosis
This is a key 10th gen specific electrical consideration that is not covered in standard service references.
The BCM (Body Control Module) controls numerous systems — windows, locks, wipers, turn signals, and the push-button start system. The BCM may occasionally experience a communication glitch and stop responding to inputs. Symptoms may include multiple electrical systems failing simultaneously while individual fuses remain intact.
Diagnosis: If multiple electrical systems fail AT the same time, but individual fuses are intact — the BCM should be considered.
Fix: Disconnect the negative battery terminal for 10-15 minutes. Reconnect it, start the vehicle, and allow it to idle for 2-3 minutes without touching the accelerator pedal. This reboots the BCM and resolves a significant portion of 10th gen electrical glitches. If the issue recurs, a BCM software update from the dealer may be required — a TSB exists for this.
💡 Hatchback / Type R — Fuse Box Differences
For hatchback (FC3) or Type R (FK8) models, some fuse locations differ. The rear 12V outlet in the cargo area has its own dedicated fuse — it is not shared with the front outlets.
Location: Check the under-Hood fuse box for a fuse labeled “Accessory Socket” or “Luggage Socket” (15A or 20A depending on market). If the cargo outlet is inoperative, this is the fuse to check.
🔧 The A/C Relay — A Known Issue on the 10th Gen
The A/C compressor relay can stick closed, keeping the compressor clutch engaged even with the engine off. This can drain the battery overnight.
Fix: Replace the relay with an OEM Honda relay — aftermarket relays tend to have shorter service life. If the relay continues to fail, the A/C clutch gap may be excessive — a TSB exists for this. Verify the gap before replacing the compressor.
Complete Fuse Chart — 10th Gen Civic (2016–2021)
Passenger Compartment Fuse Box (Under-Dash)
| № | Amps | Circuit Protected |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 10 A | Accessory (12V Power Outlet — some trims) |
| 2 | 10 A | Passenger Seat Heat |
| 3 | 10 A | Daytime Running Lights (DRL) |
| 4 | 10 A | SRS (Airbag) Indicator / Control |
| 5 | 10 A | SRS (Airbag) Control — Backup |
| 6 | 15 A | Fuel Pump |
| 7 | 10 A | Backup Light (Reverse) |
| 8 | 10 A | Interior Illumination / Dome Light |
| 9 | 10 A | Turn Signals / Hazard Lights |
| 10 | 7.5 A | TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) |
| 11 | 15 A | Headlight (High/Low Beam — some trims) |
| 12 | 10 A | Door Lock / Security System |
| 13 | 7.5 A | Wi-Fi / Telematics / HondaLink |
| 14 | 10 A | Instrument Panel / Gauges |
| 15 | 10 A | Heated Steering Wheel |
| 16 | 10 A | Driver Seat Heat |
| 17 | 15 A | Radio / Display Audio (Infotainment) |
| 18 | 10 A | Honda Sensing (Camera / Radar) |
| 19 | 10 A | Smart Entry / Keyless Access |
| 20 | 10 A | Electric Parking Brake (EPB) |
| 21 | 10 A | Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) / LKAS |
| 22 | 15 A | Windshield Wiper / Washer |
| 23 | 15 A | Rear Window Defroster (Coil) |
| 24 | 7.5 A | Blind Spot Information System (BSI) |
| 25 | 15 A | Accessory Socket — Rear (Hatchback / Type R) |
| 26 | 20 A | Front Cigarette Lighter / 12V Outlet |
| 27 | 20 A | Center Console 12V Outlet (Armrest) |
Engine Compartment Fuse Box (Under-Hood)
| № | Amps | Circuit Protected |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-Fuse | 80 A / 120 A | Main Battery Fuse (bolted — loosen screws before removal) |
| 1 | 70 A | EPS (Electric Power Steering) |
| 2 | 15 A | ACG (Alternator / Generator) |
| 3 | 15 A | A/C Compressor Clutch (Power) |
| 4 | 30 A | Radiator Fan |
| 5 | 30 A | Condenser Fan |
| 6 | 20 A | Headlight High Beam (Left) |
| 7 | 20 A | Headlight High Beam (Right) |
| 8 | 7.5 A | Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Module |
| 9 | 15 A | Ignition Coils |
| 10 | 15 A | Transmission Control Unit (TCU) — CVT |
| 11 | 10 A | Honda Sensing (Radar / Camera Power) |
| 12 | 15 A | Fuel Injectors (Main Power) |
| 13 | 20 A | Horn |
| 14 | 15 A | Windshield Washer Pump |
| 15 | 30 A | ABS Pump (VSA) |
| 16 | 15 A | ABS Control |
| 17 | 15 A | Starter Motor (Solenoid) |
| 18 | 30 A | Heater / Blower Motor (HVAC) |
| 19 | 15 A | O2 Sensor (Heater) — Front |
| 20 | 15 A | Headlight Low Beam (Right) |
| 21 | 15 A | O2 Sensor (Heater) — Rear |
| 22 | 7.5 A | Engine Control (ECU) — Sense Power |
| 23 | 15 A | Headlight Low Beam (Left) |
| 24 | 15 A | Backup Lights (Reverse) — Under-hood relay |
| 25 | 7.5 A | A/C Compressor Clutch (MG Clutch) |
| 26 | 15 A | Fuel Pump (Relay Power) |
| 27 | 20 A | Tail Lights / Parking Lights |
| 28 | 15 A | Rear Wiper (Hatchback / Type R only) |
❓ 10th Gen Civic Fuse Box — Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is the 10th gen Civic interior fuse box located?
Under the dashboard on the driver’s side, left of the steering column, behind a plastic cover panel. The cover is secured with one bolt or a release tab.
2. Where is the 10th gen Civic engine bay fuse box located?
On the passenger side fender (right side for LHD), behind the air filter box. The cover has clips — open carefully, as they can be fragile in cold weather.
3. Which fuse is for the cigarette lighter on a 10th gen Civic?
Fuse #26 (20A) in the interior fuse box for the front outlet, and fuse #27 (20A) for the center console outlet. If the 12V outlets are inoperative, check these first.
4. Which fuse is for the fuel pump on a 10th gen Civic?
Fuse #6 (15A) in the interior fuse box. If the engine cranks but does not start, this is the primary fuse to check.
5. Which fuse is for the radio / infotainment on a 10th gen Civic?
Fuse #17 (15A) in the interior fuse box. If the display is inoperative or the audio system will not power on, check this first.
6. Why did both cigarette lighters die on my 10th gen Civic?
If both front and center console outlets are inoperative, check fuse #26 (20A) and fuse #27 (20A) separately. They are independent circuits. If one works and the other does not, the individual fuse for that outlet is likely the cause.
7. What is the main fuse amperage on a 10th gen Civic?
The main battery fuse is rated at 80 A on base trims and 120 A on higher trims (including Type R). It is secured with bolts in the under-hood fuse box. Do not remove it without loosening the bolts.
8. Why does my 10th gen Civic keep blowing the cigarette lighter fuse?
This is often caused by accessories drawing excessive current (phone chargers, dashcams, tire inflators). Replace the fuse with the same rating (20A) and use higher-quality accessories. If it continues to blow, inspect the socket for debris or wiring damage.
9. Why did my windows, locks, and wipers all stop working at the same time?
This is a known BCM communication glitch on the 10th gen. The Body Control Module may have frozen. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for 10-15 minutes to reset it. If the issue recurs, a BCM software update from the dealer may be required.
10. Does the 10th gen Civic have a fuse for the A/C compressor?
Yes — fuse #3 (15A) and fuse #25 (7.5A) in the under-hood fuse box protect the A/C clutch circuit. However, the A/C relay is a more common failure point — it may stick closed and drain the battery. Replace it with an OEM Honda relay.
11. Where is the fuse for the rear wiper on a hatchback / Type R?
Fuse #28 (15A) in the under-hood fuse box. This fuse is only present on hatchback and Type R models — sedans and coupes do not have it.
12. Why does my 10th gen Civic have a dead battery every morning?
A common cause: the A/C relay may stick closed (similar to the 8th gen). The compressor clutch remains engaged with the engine off and can drain the battery. Replace the relay with an OEM Honda relay. Also verify the ELD (Electronic Load Detector) in the under-hood fuse box — it is a known Parasitic Drain point on the 10th gen.
13. What is the “ACG” fuse and why is it important?
The ACG fuse (#2, 15A) protects the Alternator/generator circuit. If this fuse blows, the battery will not charge while the engine is running. The vehicle may run until the battery is depleted. Check this if the battery light is illuminated but the alternator tests good.
14. Does the 10th gen Civic have a fuse for the Honda Sensing system?
Yes — fuse #18 (10A) in the interior fuse box powers the camera and radar. If lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, or collision warning systems are inoperative, check this fuse. Also check fuse #11 (10A) in the under-hood box for the Honda Sensing radar module.
15. Where is the fuse for the power seats on a 10th gen Civic?
The 10th gen Civic does not have a dedicated fuse for power seats — they are typically fused through the main accessory circuit (fuse #1 or #26 depending on trim). If power seats are inoperative, check fuse #26 (20A) in the interior fuse box.
💡 Pro Tip: Photograph the fuse box cover before removing fuses. The labeling on the plastic may wear over time — a reference photo helps avoid confusion. The fuse puller is stored inside the under-hood fuse box.
Sources: Honda factory service manual, owner’s manual, and verified against real-world owner experience from 10th Gen Civic forums. Fuse assignments may vary by trim and market. Always verify with your owner’s manual.