The Buick Century, manufactured from 1978 to 1981, exemplifies Buick’s commitment to luxury and performance in the mid-size sedan segment. Its advanced electrical system includes essential components such as the fuse box and relays.
The fuse box in the Buick Century 1978–1981 houses fuses designed to protect electrical circuits from overloads and short circuits, ensuring the safety of critical components like headlights, taillights, and power windows. Relays, serving as electrically controlled switches, manage the flow of electricity to systems such as the starter motor, fuel pump, and cooling fans, ensuring efficient and reliable operation.
Additional sophisticated electrical components in the Buick Century of this era include climate control systems, power-adjustable seats, and premium audio systems. These features rely on a robust electrical infrastructure to enhance comfort, convenience, and entertainment for occupants.
Understanding the layout and function of the fuse box and relays is crucial for maintaining and troubleshooting the Buick Century 1978–1981’s electrical systems. Regular inspection and maintenance of these components help ensure the vehicle’s reliability and performance, maintaining its reputation as a luxurious and dependable sedan in Buick’s lineup.
(1978–1981) Buick Century fuse box and relay with Diagram
WARNING
- Never replace a fuse with one that has a higher amperage rating.
- A fuse with a too-high amperage could damage the electrical part and cause a fire.
- On no account should fuses be repaired (e.g. patched up with tin foil or wire) as this may cause serious damage elsewhere in the electrical circuit or cause a fire.
- If a fuse blows repeatedly, do not keep replacing it. Instead, have the cause for the repeated short circuit or overload tracked and fixed.
- Terminal and harness assignments for individual connectors will vary depending on vehicle equipment level, model, and market.
Buick Century 1978–1981 fuse assignment
- Circuit Breaker: Headlight Circuit — A thermo circuit breaker is incorporated in the headlight switch assembly to protect headlight circuits. Windshield Wiper — Integral with windshield wiper motor.
Year of production: 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981
Fuse box diagram
| Fuse | [Amps] | Protected Component |
| 1 | 5A | Instrument illumination and headlight warning |
| 2 | 20A | Electric choke (V6), closed loop |
| 3 | — | — |
| 4 | 30A | Circuit breaker: Power windows and roof |
| 5 | — | — |
| 6 | 25A | Heater, air conditioning, pulse wipers and deck lid |
| 7 | 10A | Electronic Control Module |
| 8 | — | — |
| 9 | 25A | Windshield wiper and washer |
| 10 | 20A | Hazard and stop lights |
| 11 | 20A | Seat belt light and buzzer, heated back light relay, tailgate window release, map light and fuel economy light |
| 12 | 20A | Tail, side marker, parking and license lights, clock radio |
| 13 | 10A | Radio |
| 14 | 30A | Circuit breaker: Power seats, door locks and heated back light |
| 15 | 20A | Turn signal and back-up lights |
| 16 | 20A | Clock, cigar lighter, glove box light, key buzzer, power antenna, clock radio, radio capacitor, dome and sail panel lights, trunk light, reading light, headlight on warning and door locks |
| 17 | — | — |
| 18 | — | — |
| 19 | 10A | Gauges, cruise control, torque converter clutch and indicator light |
Conclusion
For owners and enthusiasts of classic Buick Century models from 1978–1981, understanding the fuse box and relay systems is essential for vehicle maintenance. Regular inspection and maintenance of these components helped ensure the vehicle’s longevity and reliability, preserving its status as a symbol of Buick’s craftsmanship and innovation in the automotive industry during that era.
