Which Fuse to Pull to Stop the Odometer from Running?
3 Answers
Pull out the ABS fuse, and the vehicle will not display mileage. ABS is the anti-lock braking system installed in vehicles, designed to reasonably distribute braking torque, prevent wheel lock-up during emergency braking in dangerous situations, and allow the vehicle to maintain basic directional control. Once a wheel locks up, the vehicle is prone to skidding or fishtailing, which can lead to more serious traffic accidents. Removing the ABS poses significant risks, as detailed below: 1. After removing the ABS: The speed cannot be displayed, and systems such as the vehicle stability system, cruise control, automatic locking, and instantaneous fuel consumption, which rely on speed as a reference, will not function properly; 2. With the ABS removed: During emergency braking, the vehicle is highly likely to skid or fishtail, and the braking system may also malfunction. On highways or snowy roads, the brakes may fail to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents.
I've been asked similar questions by friends many times, saying they want to prevent the odometer from running. Honestly, this could lead to serious trouble. Usually, the car's fuse box is located under the steering wheel or in the engine compartment. You might stop the odometer by pulling out the fuse labeled 'instrument' or 'speed', but doing so is extremely dangerous—it can affect the speedometer, tachometer, and even the safety systems. If all the instruments fail while driving, it would be a disaster. I suggest not trying to save a bit on the resale value this way. The odometer records the actual mileage for your and others' safety. If there's really a malfunction, it's best to go directly to a 4S shop to check the circuit. Professionals will help diagnose the root of the problem. Remember, these small components in the car are all interconnected. Randomly pulling fuses can easily damage other electronic parts, and repairs won't come cheap.
From my perspective, as an experienced driver who has been behind the wheel for many years, locating that fuse isn't particularly difficult—it's usually clearly marked in the fuse box manual regarding the instrument panel's related fuse position. However, I don't want to instruct you on which specific fuse to pull because an odometer failure is often caused by signal sensor issues. Forcibly cutting off the fuse might also deactivate your headlights or other indicators, making it quite alarming to drive without clear data. Pay more attention during routine maintenance, as aging wiring can easily lead to such problems. Additionally, the real reason behind a non-functioning odometer could be a short circuit or module failure. If you can't handle it yourself, call a mechanic for an on-site inspection. Driving safety comes first—don't risk major trouble just to save time.
