1998 Oldsmobile Achieva Owner's Manual - Page 281

Headlamp Wiring The headlamp wiring is protectedby a circuit breaker in the fuse block. An electrical overloadwill cause the lamps to go on and off, or in some cases remain off. to If this happens, have your headlamp wiring checked right away. Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle areprotected from short circuits a combination of fuses, circuit by breakers and fusible thermal links in the wiring itself. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Look atthe silver-colored band inside the fuse. the If band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sureyou replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating. If you ever have a problem on the road and don't have you can "borrow" one that has the same a spare fuse, amperage. Just pick a featureof your vehicle that you can get along without-- like the radio or cigarette lighter -- and use its fuse, if it is the correct amperage. Replace it assoon as you can. There are two fuse blocks your vehicle: the in instrument panel fuse block and the engine compartment fuse block. Windshield Wipers The windshield wiper motor is protected by an internal circuit breakerand a fuse. If the motor overheats dueto heavy snow, etc., the wiper will stop until the motor cools. If the overloadis caused by some electrical problem and not snow, etc., be sure to get it fixed. Power Windows and Other Power Options Circuit breakersin the fuse panel protectthe power windows and other power accessories. When the current load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting the circuituntil the problem is fixed or goes away.