The Chevrolet Citation (1980-1985) is a compact car that features an electrical system that relies on fuses and relays to manage and protect various components. The fuse box in the Citation is located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. This fuse box controls essential systems like the headlights, interior lights, radio, and wipers. Each fuse protects a specific circuit by cutting off power if there is an overload or short circuit, preventing damage to the electrical system.
The relays in the Chevrolet Citation control key components such as the starter motor and cooling fans. These relays act as switches that allow low-power signals to manage high-power systems. If a relay malfunctions, it can cause issues with the respective system, such as the engine not starting due to a faulty starter relay.
Regularly checking and maintaining the fuses and relays in the Citation ensures the vehicle’s electrical systems continue to operate smoothly and prevent unexpected failures in critical components.
MUST READ: DYI – How to Check Car Fuses?
(1980-1985) Chevrolet Citation 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.
Chevrolet Citation 1980-1985 fuse assignment
Year of production: from 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985
Fuse box diagram
| Fuse | [A] | Protected Component |
| 1 | 5 | Instrument illumination and lights on reminder |
| 2 | 20 | Choke heater and cooling fan |
| 3 | — | — |
| 4 | 30 | Circuit breaker: Power windows |
| 5 | — | — |
| 6 | 25 | Air conditioning blower and compressor, and heater |
| 7 | 10 | Electronic Control Module |
| 8 | — | — |
| 9 | — | — |
| 10 | 20 | Hazard and stop lights |
| 11 | 20 | Air conditioning anti-dieseling relay, brake warning indicator, choke heater, rear window defogger, fuel gauge, gauges, idle stop solenoid, lights on reminder, seat belt warning, warning indicators, charge indicator and computer command control |
| 12 | 20 | Front and rear parking and marker lights, and license lights |
| 13 | — | — |
| 14 | 30 | Circuit breaker: Power door locks, power seats and rear window defogger |
| 15 | 20 | Fast idle control, back-up and turn signal lights |
| 16 | 20 | Air conditioning anti-dieseling relay, cigar lighter, clock, courtesy lights, horn, ignition key warning, lights on reminder, power door locks and power antenna, trunk and vanity mirror lights and computer command control |
| 17 | — | — |
| 18 | 25 | Windshield wiper/washer and wiper/washer delay |
| 19 | 10 | Radio and cruise control |
Circuit Breaker:
- Headlights — Circuit breaker is integral with headlight switch to protect headlight circuit.
- Windshield Wiper — Circuit breaker integral with windshield wiper switch to protect wiper circuit.
- Power Seats, Power Windows & Power Door Locks — Circuit breaker is located on fuse panel to protect power accessories.
- Rear Window Defogger – Circuit breaker is located on fuse panel to protect rear window circuit.
Conclusion
For owners and enthusiasts of classic Chevrolet Citation 1980-1985, 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 Chevrolet’s craftsmanship and innovation in the automotive industry during that era.
