2015 Subaru Outback Fuse Box Diagram

The 2015 Subaru Outback is a popular vehicle known for its reliability and versatility. However, like any vehicle, electrical issues can arise. Understanding your Outback's fuse box diagram is crucial for troubleshooting electrical problems, performing maintenance, and even adding aftermarket accessories. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to the 2015 Subaru Outback fuse box diagram, enabling you to confidently diagnose and resolve common electrical issues.

Purpose of the Fuse Box Diagram

The fuse box diagram acts as a roadmap to your vehicle's electrical system. It shows the location of each fuse and relay, along with its corresponding circuit. Without it, you're essentially troubleshooting blindly. Here's why having and understanding it is important:

Troubleshooting Electrical Issues: Quickly identify which fuse controls a specific component (e.g., headlights, radio, power windows). If a component fails, the diagram helps you pinpoint the blown fuse responsible.
Performing Basic Maintenance: Certain maintenance procedures might require disconnecting power to specific circuits. The diagram helps you locate the appropriate fuse to pull.
Installing Aftermarket Accessories: When adding accessories like aftermarket lights or a stereo system, you'll need to tap into the vehicle's electrical system. The diagram shows you available power sources and helps you avoid overloading circuits.
Learning About Your Vehicle: Understanding the fuse box diagram can improve your overall understanding of your Outback's electrical architecture.

Key Specs and Main Parts

The 2015 Subaru Outback typically has two main fuse box locations:

Interior Fuse Box: Located under the dashboard on the driver's side. It's usually accessible by removing a small panel. This fuse box primarily houses fuses for interior components like the radio, power windows, interior lights, and various control modules.
Engine Compartment Fuse Box: Located in the engine bay, often near the battery. This fuse box contains fuses for engine-related components like the fuel pump, ignition system, headlights, and cooling fan.

Within each fuse box, you'll find the following components:

Fuses: Sacrificial devices designed to protect electrical circuits from overcurrent. When the current exceeds the fuse's rating, the fuse element melts, breaking the circuit. Fuses are typically color-coded to indicate their amperage rating (e.g., 5A, 10A, 15A, 20A, 30A).
Relays: Electrically operated switches that allow a low-current circuit to control a high-current circuit. Relays are used for components that require significant power, such as headlights, starter motor, and air conditioning compressor.
Fuse Puller: A small plastic tool, often located inside the fuse box cover, used to safely remove fuses. Using pliers or other tools can damage the fuse box or the fuse itself.
Fuse Box Cover: A protective cover that keeps dust and debris out of the fuse box. The fuse box diagram is usually printed on the inside of this cover.

Symbols, Lines, Colors, and Icons Explained

Understanding the symbols and markings on the fuse box diagram is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Here’s a breakdown of common elements:

Fuses: Typically represented by a simple rectangular shape with a number indicating the amperage rating (e.g., "10A"). The diagram might also include a brief description of the circuit the fuse protects (e.g., "Headlight RH").
Relays: Usually depicted as a square or rectangular box with lines indicating the relay's coil and contacts. The diagram will often include a letter code for the relay (e.g., "RL1") and a description of its function (e.g., "Fuel Pump Relay").
Lines: Solid lines connect fuses and relays to the components they power. The thickness of the line doesn't usually indicate wire gauge; it's simply for visual clarity.
Colors: While the diagram itself might not be in color, knowing the standard color-coding for wires in your Outback can be helpful. For example, red is often used for positive (+) power wires, and black is often used for ground (-) wires. Consult your Outback's wiring diagram (available in the service manual) for specific color codes.
Icons: Certain icons might be used to represent specific components, such as a light bulb icon for headlights or a speaker icon for the radio. These icons are generally intuitive.

Amperage Color Coding: While not always consistently followed, here's a general guideline for fuse color coding:

Gray: 2A

Violet: 3A

Pink: 4A

Orange: 5A

Brown: 7.5A

Red: 10A

Blue: 15A

Yellow: 20A

Clear: 25A

Green: 30A

Important Note: Always refer to the specific fuse box diagram for your 2015 Subaru Outback, as there might be slight variations depending on the trim level and options installed.

How It Works: From Fuse to Function

The electrical system in your Outback can be visualized as a network of circuits. Each circuit is designed to power a specific component or group of components. Here’s how a typical circuit works, incorporating the fuse box:

Power Source: The battery provides the initial power (12V DC) to the vehicle's electrical system.
Ignition Switch: When you turn the ignition switch, it closes a circuit, allowing power to flow to various systems.
Fuse Box: Power is routed through the fuse box. Each circuit passes through a fuse that is specifically sized to protect the circuit.
Component: The power then flows to the intended component (e.g., headlight, radio).
Ground: After powering the component, the electricity returns to the battery through a ground connection, completing the circuit.

If the component draws too much current (e.g., due to a short circuit), the fuse will blow, interrupting the flow of electricity and preventing damage to the wiring and the component itself. Replacing the blown fuse restores the circuit's functionality, provided the underlying problem that caused the fuse to blow has been resolved.

Real-World Use: Basic Troubleshooting Tips

Here's how to use the fuse box diagram to troubleshoot common electrical problems:

Identify the Problem: Determine which component is not working (e.g., the right headlight is out).
Consult the Diagram: Locate the fuse box diagram (usually on the inside of the fuse box cover or in your owner's manual). Find the fuse that corresponds to the non-functioning component (e.g., "Headlight RH").
Inspect the Fuse: Using a fuse puller, carefully remove the fuse. Inspect the fuse element. A blown fuse will have a broken or melted element. You can also use a multimeter to test for continuity across the fuse.
Replace the Fuse: If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage rating. Never use a fuse with a higher amperage rating, as this can overload the circuit and cause a fire.
Test the Component: After replacing the fuse, test the component to see if it's now working.
Investigate Further (if the fuse blows again): If the new fuse blows immediately or shortly after being replaced, there is likely a short circuit or other electrical problem in the circuit. In this case, it's best to consult a qualified mechanic.

Pro Tip: Keep a supply of spare fuses in your Outback, covering the most common amperage ratings. This can save you time and hassle in the event of a blown fuse.

Safety Considerations: Risky Components

Working with electrical systems can be dangerous. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:

Disconnect the Battery: Before working on any electrical components, disconnect the negative (-) terminal of the battery to prevent accidental shocks or short circuits.
Avoid Water: Never work on electrical systems in wet conditions.
Use Proper Tools: Use insulated tools designed for automotive electrical work.
Never Bypass Fuses: Never use a piece of wire or other conductive material to bypass a fuse. This can create a dangerous overload and potentially start a fire.
High-Current Circuits: Be particularly careful when working with high-current circuits, such as those for the starter motor or alternator. These circuits can deliver a significant electrical shock.
Airbag Systems: Be aware of the location of airbag control modules and wiring. Mishandling these components can trigger the airbags, causing serious injury. Consult a service manual for proper procedures when working near airbag systems.

If you are not comfortable working with electrical systems, it's always best to consult a qualified mechanic.

We have a detailed 2015 Subaru Outback fuse box diagram available for download. This diagram provides a clear and concise overview of the fuse and relay locations, along with their corresponding functions. It's a valuable resource for any Outback owner looking to troubleshoot electrical problems or perform maintenance. Contact us for information on how to access the file.