When adding electrical accessories to a vehicle, one of the best ways to safely draw power is by using fuse taps. Whether you’re installing a dash cam, LED lights, GPS tracker, or other electronics, fuse taps provide an easy and secure way to connect them to your car’s electrical system.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about fuse taps, their benefits, installation process, and how they power essential car accessories.
What Is a Fuse Tap?
A fuse tap is a small adapter that allows you to draw power from your vehicle’s fuse tap box without splicing or cutting wires. It plugs into an existing fuse slot, giving you an extra connection point for additional electrical devices. This makes it a safe and reversible method of powering accessories like dash cams, LED strips, or radar detectors.
How Does a Fuse Tap Work?
A fuse tap works by splitting the fuse slot into two circuits:
- Original Circuit: The factory fuse still protects the original function (e.g., radio, wipers).
- New Circuit: The added fuse powers your accessory without interfering with the original function.
Each circuit has its own fuse, preventing overloads and ensuring safety.
Why Use a Fuse Tap for Car Accessories?
1. No Wire Cutting Required
With a fuse tap, there’s no need to cut or splice wires, which can void warranties or cause electrical issues.
2. Easy Installation
Even if you have no prior experience with car electronics, installing a fuse tap is simple.
3. Safe and Reliable Power
A fuse tap ensures that your added device receives the correct power while protecting both the original fuse and the new accessory.
4. Neater and More Organized Wiring
Since a fuse tap connects directly to the fuse box, there’s no need for messy wire connections throughout the vehicle.
How to Choose the Right Fuse Tap
Fuse taps come in different sizes and types. To choose the right one for your car, consider:
1. Fuse Type
Check the type of fuse used in your car’s fuse box. The most common types include:
- ATO/ATC (Standard Blade)
- Mini Blade
- Micro Blade
- Low Profile Mini Blade
Your fuse tap must match the type of fuse slot in your car.
2. Fuse Rating
Make sure the fuse tap supports the correct amperage. The added fuse should match the rating recommended for the accessory.
3. Wire Gauge and Connector Type
The fuse tap should have the correct gauge wire to handle the power needed for the device being installed.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Fuse Tap
If you’re installing a dash cam, LED bed lights, or any other accessory, follow these steps:
Step 1: Locate the Fuse Box
Most cars have a fuse box inside the cabin, usually under the dashboard or near the glove compartment. Some vehicles also have a fuse box under the hood.
Step 2: Identify a Suitable Fuse Slot
- Use a multimeter to find a fuse slot with “switched power” (turns on/off with the ignition).
- Avoid using critical circuits like airbags or engine management systems.
- Common choices include the radio fuse, accessory fuse, or cigarette lighter fuse.
Step 3: Remove the Existing Fuse
Pull out the original fuse from the slot where you’ll install the fuse tap.
Step 4: Insert the Fuse Tap
- Place the original fuse into the bottom slot of the fuse tap.
- Insert a fuse for the new accessory into the top slot.
- Plug the fuse tap back into the fuse box.
Step 5: Connect the Accessory Power Wire
Attach the power wire of your accessory (e.g., dash cam, LED strip) to the wire end of the fuse tap using a crimp connector.
Step 6: Ground the Connection
Secure the ground wire of your accessory to a metal part of the vehicle’s frame using a grounding screw or bolt.
Step 7: Test the Installation
Turn on the ignition and check if the accessory functions properly.
What Accessories Can You Power with a Fuse Tap?
1. Dash Cams
A dash cam needs a constant or switched power source to function properly. Using a fuse tap allows the camera to turn on and off with the car, preventing battery drain.
2. LED Strip Lights
Interior and exterior LED lights can be powered through a fuse tap for a clean and professional installation.
3. GPS Trackers
Many car owners install GPS trackers for security reasons. A fuse tap ensures a continuous power supply.
4. Radar Detectors
A radar detector needs power when driving. Connecting it via a fuse tap keeps the setup neat and eliminates dangling wires.
5. USB Chargers and Power Outlets
You can install additional USB ports or 12V power outlets using a fuse tap for convenience.
Final Thoughts
Using a fuse tap is one of the easiest and safest ways to power dash cams, LED lights, GPS trackers, and other car accessories. It keeps wiring organized, avoids cutting factory wires, and ensures a reliable power supply.
If you want a clean, professional, and safe installation, a fuse tap is the best solution. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced DIYer, following the steps in this guide will help you successfully add new electrical devices to your vehicle.
