The ElectroChromatic rear view mirror fuse is number 16 with a 10amp fuse. Since I have my radar detector directly wired to it; I wanted to change out the 10amp fuse with a 20amp fuse. Will this cause any problems for me in doing so electrically with other things that the fuse is responsible for such as the electrochromatic mirror,passenger/driver heated seat modules, rain sense module, headlamp leveling,ACC chime module?? Whenever I turn the ignition key on the radar detector lights up for a split second saying "LoW Volt". My battery is in good condition so I know my battery is not weak, I'm guessing its pulling not enough power at the start up for the radar to work thats why I wanted to raise the 10amp fuse to 20amps.
Much appreciated for some insight. Thx.

 

If the fuse isn't blowing, I reckon changing it will achieve nothing (other than a reduction in its protective function). What volts are actually present?

 

My radar detector is hard wired into switched power for the trunk pop switch module. The extra draw is not enough to blow the fuse for this.

I would not worrie about changing out the fuse for the mirror. I've never seen a radar detector draw 10 amps of power before, and I have installed a ton of electronics in my day. I used to run both a Best Buy and Circuit City install bays. I had to get out as my back is ruined from a car accident.

If you are poping fuses I would check for a short to ground somewhere.

 

Is it actually affecting the operation of your radar detector?

With ignition OFF, key removed and the vehicle locked, several systems go into 'sleep' mode. As the key is inserted and switch ON, systems activate and it's not surprising any equipment which monitors and reports voltage may report an initial drop.

The 10 amp fuse is fitted to protect some very sensitive and expensive systems and the last thing you want is to anything which would allow a surge in these circuits. Switching to a higher rated fuse does nothing other than remove this protection.

I'd be looking for an alternative feed.

Graham

 

Thanks guys for all your input. At present the fuse at stock 10amps is not blowing out and its not affecting the operation of the radar either. I guess I'll just leave it as is and monitor it for awhile till something comes up. I didn't have a multimeter handy to test out how much power its drawing out but overall its working solid hooked up to the electrochromatic rear view mirror.

 

A fuse does not limit how much voltage goes through a circuit, only amperes. If the device is showing low volts, a bigger fuse will change nothing.