The Chevrolet Nova (1975-1979) is a classic compact car celebrated for its straightforward design, reliability, and ease of maintenance. Despite its age, the electrical system of the Nova remains a crucial aspect of its operation, with fuse boxes and relays playing vital roles in managing the car’s various electrical components.
The fuse box in the Chevrolet Nova is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. This fuse box is responsible for protecting the car’s electrical circuits, including those for the headlights, taillights, radio, heater, and wipers. Each fuse is designed to blow if there is an electrical overload or short circuit, thereby protecting the wiring and components from damage.
Relays in the Nova are used to control high-current circuits, such as the horn, starter motor, and occasionally the cooling fan, depending on the model’s configuration. These relays function as switches that allow low-current circuits to control high-power components, ensuring the safe operation of the electrical system. Regular maintenance and checks of both fuses and relays are essential for preventing electrical issues and keeping this classic vehicle in reliable running condition.
MUST READ: DYI – How to Check Car Fuses?
(1975-1979) Chevrolet Nova 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 Nova (1975-1979) fuse assignment
Year of production: from 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
Fuse Box diagram
| No. | A | Circuit Protected |
| 1 | – | – |
| 2 | – | – |
| 3 | 20 | Dome light, courtesy light, luggage light, glove box light, clock, cigar lighter, key warning buzzer |
| 4 | 20 | Tail, parking, side markers, license and underhood lights |
| 5 | 20 | Stop and hazard lights |
| 6 | 4 | Instrument, radio, heater, windshield wiper switch lights |
| 7 | 25 | Heater and air conditioner |
| 8 | 20 | Turn signals and back-up lights |
| 9 | 10 | Gauges, cruise control, rear defogger, headlight buzzer, seat belt warning buzzer |
| 10 | 10 | Radio, idle stop solenoid |
| 11 | 25 | Windshield wiper and washer |
| 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 attached to firewall to protect electric motors Fusible Links: Fusible links are located in the engine compartment. Gauge size is marked on insulation and color matches wire being fused. Fusible links should always be four gauge sizes smaller than wire being fused The links are: Molded splice at starter solenoid “BAT” terminal, 14 gauge red wire. A 16 gauge red fusible link is located at junction block to protect all unfused wiring of 12 gauge or larger. The ammeter circuit is protected by 2 red 20 gauge wire links installed as molded splices at the junction block. | ||
Conclusion
For owners and enthusiasts of classic Chevrolet Nova (1975-1979), 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.
