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Replies: 5
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Clemson Sports Icon [59852]
TigerPulse: 100%
59
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Joined: 2002
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Carnet: Electrical diagnostics.
Jun 26, 2025, 12:49 PM
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More fun with my Boxster! I warshed it last weekend and when I went to drive it, the power windows wouldn't work. Traced the problem down to a blown fuse (C3: central locking/alarm, power windows, interior lights). Put a fresh one in and got an instant spark, which cooked it. You can hear and see the zap when the fuse makes contact.
Any idears? I've been goggling "fuse box spark" and all the hits are for the stupidass Chevy Spark.
TIA in advance.
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Rival Killer [3059]
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ChatGPT says...
1
Jun 26, 2025, 12:55 PM
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It sounds like you're dealing with a direct short circuit in the wiring or components associated with fuse C3. Here's a step-by-step approach to diagnose and fix the issue:
What's Happening:
When a fuse instantly sparks or blows, it indicates a short to ground. Something is causing direct electrical contact between the positive side of that fuse and a grounding point.
Most Common Causes:
Water Ingress:
Since you recently washed your Boxster ("warshed" it!), water intrusion into electrical connectors, switches, or modules is a prime suspect.
Damaged Wiring:
Exposed or damaged wires touching metal parts or chassis ground.
Faulty Components:
Central locking/alarm module, window motors/regulators, or door harness connectors.
How to Troubleshoot:
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Open the doors and check inside the door jambs and sill plates for obvious water or moisture.
Look under the seats, carpets, and inside the doors. Water pooling under the seat or inside door panels is common.
Step 2: Isolate the Circuit
Identify everything powered by fuse C3:
Central locking/alarm system
Power windows
Interior lighting
Disconnect each component or module one-by-one and then attempt to insert a new fuse:
Start with the easiest: interior dome/map lights (pop bulbs out), then window switches, then door connectors, then alarm module.
If the fuse stops blowing after disconnecting a component, you've found the culprit.
Step 3: Door and Window Wiring Check
A common cause on Boxsters is wiring damage within the door harness, especially where wires flex in the door jamb. Peel back the rubber accordion boot in the door jamb and inspect wires closely.
Step 4: Alarm/Central Locking Module
Located typically under the driver's seat in early Boxsters; prone to water damage from convertible top leaks or aggressive washing.
Inspect connectors for corrosion or water damage. Dry and clean thoroughly with electrical contact cleaner if wet.
Recommended Action:
Dry out any wet connectors or components.
Repair damaged wiring by splicing or replacing the harness segment.
If no visible damage, consider testing or replacing the central locking/alarm module.
Important Safety Reminder:
Always disconnect your battery when working on electrical systems.
Have spare fuses on hand and be ready to disconnect quickly if sparks occur again.
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Valley Legend [12874]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Burn it down...
1
Jun 26, 2025, 12:56 PM
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Pretty sure a spark a the fuse means you either have a loose (or frayed wire touching metal) hot wire or bad ground.
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Valley Legend [12874]
TigerPulse: 100%
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Sorry, I'll ChatGPT if for you....
4
Jun 26, 2025, 1:01 PM
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What's Happening:
The wiring is failing in your old German vehicle.
Most Common Causes:
The vehicle is older than 10 years and manufactured in Germany.
How to Troubleshoot:
Step 1: Visual Inspection
Is it a German Brand like Porsche, VW, Mercedes, Audi?
Step 2: Isolate the Vehicle from structures
Douse the car in gasoline. Soak the interior thoroughly.
Step 3: Light a match
Throw the match in the vehicles interior. Be careful to stay clear of igniting vapors.
Step 4: Watch that ############ burn.
Important Safety Reminder:
Always stand clear of burning vehicles.
Have a hose and water readily available to extinguish nearby items you didn't intend to burn.
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Ultimate Tiger [35323]
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So you're replacing the fuse with the ignition on?...
1
Jun 26, 2025, 1:50 PM
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might just want to let it dry-out/run without that fuse for a few days and then try replacing the fuse while the ignition is off.
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Clemson Sports Icon [59852]
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Joined: 2002
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Car was off but
Jun 26, 2025, 2:52 PM
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interior lights and alarm work even when the key isn't in the ignition.
Imma give the car a couple days to think about its behavior.
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Replies: 5
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