No, a car cannot run if a critical ATM fuse (a standard mini-blade fuse type) is missing or blown. The vehicle's electrical system is divided into circuits, each protected by a fuse. If the fuse for an essential system—like the fuel pump, engine control unit (ECU), or ignition—is absent, the car will not start or will stall immediately.
The role of a fuse is to protect wiring from overheating and causing a fire if a circuit draws too much current. Simply removing a fuse to "fix" an electrical problem is dangerous and will likely leave you stranded. The car's ability to operate depends entirely on which circuit the fuse protects.
| Fuse Circuit | Impact if Fuse is Missing/Blown | Can Car Start/Run? |
|---|
| Fuel Pump | No fuel delivery to engine. | No, will crank but not start. |
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) | Engine management computer has no power. | No, will not start. |
| Ignition Coil / Injectors | No spark or fuel injection. | No, will crank but not start. |
| Starter Motor | The solenoid won't engage the starter. | No, will do nothing when key is turned. |
| Radio / Infotainment | Loss of audio and navigation. | Yes, car runs normally. |
| Power Windows | Windows will not operate. | Yes, car runs normally. |
| Headlights | No headlight illumination. | Yes, car runs but unsafe at night. |
To diagnose the issue, locate your car's fuse box (usually under the dashboard or hood) and consult the diagram on the cover. Use a fuse puller to check the relevant fuse; a broken metal strip inside indicates it's blown. Replace it with a new fuse of the exact same amperage (e.g., 10A, 15A, 20A). If the new fuse blows immediately, you have a deeper electrical fault that requires a professional mechanic.
