electrical

Relay - Generic

for 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 L83 · RWD
Editorial review:Chris HacklemanMaster Technician · 20+ years · Jeff MooreMaster Lexus & Toyota Mechanic · 20+ years
Difficulty
Easy
Time
18 min
Tools
5
Steps
9
Expert-verified. Personally reviewed and approved by OLP's master technicians (Chris Hackleman & Jeff Moore — 20+ years each). Always follow the vehicle's factory service information and torque specs.

This procedure covers the replacement of a relay in the underhood or interior fuse/relay box on a 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 L83 engine.

Warnings

Replacing the wrong relay can cause electrical system damage or leave critical systems inoperable. Always verify relay location using the fuse box diagram.
Some relays control critical systems. Disconnecting certain relays while the ignition is on may trigger fault codes or cause component damage.
ℹ️The underhood fuse/relay box is located on the driver side of the engine compartment. The interior fuse box is located on the left side of the instrument panel behind a cover.

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential
Flathead screwdriver
Needle-nose pliers
Digital multimeter
Relay puller tool

Parts

  • Replacement relay (match relay number/type to failed unit) × 1 — Use OEM specification
  • Dielectric grease × 1 — Optional - for corrosion prevention

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
  2. Turn ignition off and remove key
  3. Identify which relay needs replacement using the vehicle's owner's manual or fuse box diagram
  4. If replacing a relay in the underhood fuse box, open the hood and locate the fuse/relay box on the driver side inner fender
  5. If replacing a relay in the interior fuse box, locate the panel cover on the left side of the dashboard

Procedure

  1. 1
    Disconnect the battery negative terminal
    Using a 10mm socket, loosen and remove the negative battery cable from the battery. Isolate the cable away from the battery terminal to prevent accidental reconnection during the repair.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
  2. 2
    Access the fuse/relay box
    For underhood box: Release the retaining clips on both sides of the fuse box cover and lift the cover off. For interior box: Pull the fuse panel cover straight out to release the retaining clips. Set the cover aside in a safe location.
  3. 3
    Locate the target relay
    Using the diagram printed on the inside of the fuse box cover or in the owner's manual, identify the exact location of the relay to be replaced. Verify the relay number and amperage rating match the diagnosis.
  4. 4
    Test the existing relay (optional)
    If you have a multimeter, you can test the relay before removal by checking for continuity across the coil terminals and switch terminals. This confirms the diagnosis before proceeding with replacement.
  5. 5
    Remove the failed relay
    Grasp the relay firmly and pull straight up to remove it from the socket. If the relay is difficult to remove, use a relay puller tool or gently rock the relay side to side while pulling upward. Avoid using excessive force that could damage the socket terminals.
  6. 6
    Inspect the relay socket
    Examine the relay socket for signs of corrosion, burned terminals, or damage. If terminals appear corroded, clean them with electrical contact cleaner. If terminals are burned or damaged, the entire fuse box may need replacement.
  7. 7
    Install the new relay
    Verify the new relay matches the part number and terminal configuration of the removed relay. Align the relay pins with the socket and press firmly straight down until the relay is fully seated. The relay should snap into place with a slight click. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the terminals if desired for corrosion protection.
  8. 8
    Reinstall the fuse box cover
    For underhood box: Position the cover over the fuse box and press down on both sides until the retaining clips engage. For interior box: Align the cover with the fuse panel opening and press firmly until all clips are engaged.
  9. 9
    Reconnect the battery
    Reconnect the negative battery cable to the battery terminal. Tighten the terminal bolt to specification using a 10mm socket. Ensure the connection is secure but do not overtighten.
    Do not overtighten battery terminal bolts as this can damage the battery post or terminal clamp.
    Torque spec
    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

  1. Ensure the fuse box cover is fully secured with all retaining clips engaged
  2. Close the hood if working in the underhood fuse box
  3. Reset any electronic settings that may have been lost when the battery was disconnected (clock, radio presets, power windows)

Verification

  • Turn the ignition to the ON position (do not start engine) and verify that the system controlled by the relay now functions properly
  • Start the engine and confirm the affected system operates normally under load
  • Check for any warning lights on the instrument cluster that may indicate a fault
  • If the relay controls an intermittent system (such as cooling fans or fuel pump), allow the vehicle to reach operating conditions where the relay should activate and verify proper operation
  • Cycle the affected system multiple times to ensure reliable relay operation
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