This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the interior fuse box assembly on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic with the 1.5L turbocharged engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Interior fuse box assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Lower dash panel clips (if damaged) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition to OFF position and remove key fob from vehicle
3. Open driver's door and lower the driver's window
4. Disconnect negative battery terminal and secure cable away from battery post
5. Wait at least 3 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
6. Gather all necessary tools and take photos of the fuse box area for reference

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower dash panel
   Locate the lower dash panel beneath the steering column on the driver's side. Remove the two Phillips screws securing the panel. Gently pull the panel away from the dash, releasing the retaining clips. Disconnect any electrical connectors if equipped (such as door switch or courtesy lights), then remove the panel completely.
2. 2

   Access the interior fuse box
   With the lower panel removed, locate the interior fuse box mounted above the hood release lever. The fuse box cover should be visible with a fuse diagram on it. Remove the fuse box cover by pressing the tabs on either side and pulling it away from the fuse box body.
3. 3

   Document fuse positions
   Before removing any fuses, take clear photos of all fuse positions. Create a diagram noting which circuits are populated and the amperage ratings. This is critical for proper reinstallation. Remove all fuses and relays from the fuse box and store them in a safe, organized manner.
4. 4

   Disconnect electrical connectors
   Locate the large multi-pin connectors on the back and sides of the fuse box. There are typically 3-4 main harness connectors. Press the locking tabs and carefully pull each connector straight back from the fuse box. Note the connector positions and routing. Some connectors have secondary locks that must be released first.
5. 5

   Remove ground connections
   Locate the ground strap bolt(s) connected to the fuse box mounting bracket. Use a 10mm socket to remove the ground strap bolts. Keep track of the bolt locations and any washers or spacers. Ensure the ground connection point is clean and free of corrosion.
   Torque spec

   Ground Strap Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove fuse box mounting bolts
   Locate the fuse box mounting bolts securing the assembly to the dash structure. There are typically three 10mm bolts: two on the top edge and one on the bottom bracket. Remove all mounting bolts and set them aside in a safe location.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
7. 7

   Remove fuse box assembly
   With all bolts and connectors removed, carefully maneuver the fuse box assembly out of the dash cavity. The box may need to be tilted or rotated to clear surrounding components. Check that all connectors and wiring are free before pulling the assembly completely out. Inspect the mounting area for any damage or corrosion.
8. 8

   Prepare new fuse box
   Unpack the new interior fuse box assembly and compare it to the old unit to verify correct part. Transfer any components that are not included with the new assembly, such as specific relays or modules if they are known to be good. Clean the mounting area in the dash with a clean cloth.
9. 9

   Install new fuse box
   Position the new fuse box assembly into the dash cavity, carefully routing it past surrounding components. Align the mounting holes with the dash structure. Start all three mounting bolts by hand before tightening any of them to ensure proper alignment.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Reconnect ground connections
    Install the ground strap(s) to the fuse box mounting bracket. Ensure the mating surfaces are clean and free of paint or corrosion for good electrical contact. Install the ground strap bolts and torque to specification.
    Torque spec

    Ground Strap Bolts12 Nm (9 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connectors
    Reconnect all main harness connectors to the fuse box in their original positions. Each connector should click firmly into place. Ensure all secondary locking tabs are engaged. Gently tug on each connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
12. 12

    Reinstall fuses and relays
    Using your photos and diagrams from disassembly, reinstall all fuses and relays into their correct positions in the new fuse box. Verify each fuse is the correct amperage rating for its circuit. Press each fuse firmly until it is fully seated in its holder.
13. 13

    Reinstall fuse box cover and lower panel
    Snap the fuse box cover back into place, ensuring the tabs engage properly. Reconnect any electrical connectors to the lower dash panel if equipped. Position the lower dash panel and secure it with the retaining clips, then install the two Phillips screws.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Torque all fasteners to specification using a calibrated torque wrench
2. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
3. Verify all fuses and relays are installed in correct positions with proper amperage ratings
4. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and torque to 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft)

Verification

• Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and verify the instrument cluster illuminates normally
• Check that all warning lights perform their normal bulb check sequence
• Test interior lights, power windows, door locks, and other interior electrical functions
• Start the engine and verify all systems operate normally without warning lights
• Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any newly stored diagnostic trouble codes
• Test all fused circuits systematically, including radio, climate control, wipers, and accessories
• Verify the horn, brake lights, and turn signals function properly

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