I don't mind, we are just trying to get the OP wipers working so he does not have to use rainx( which was a good temp idea) but you are hijacking the thread. I was using the example so the OP would know that the device did not look anything like a fuse. I was not sure of his knowledge base. I am not an electrical( but i do know what a relay is) expert either. I did go to "how stuff works" and searched for auto relay. this is what i found
Relay Applications
In general, the point of a relay is to use a small amount of power in the electromagnet -- coming, say, from a small dashboard switch or a low-power electronic circuit -- to move an armature that is able to switch a much larger amount of power. For example, you might want the electromagnet to energize using 5 volts and 50 milliamps (250 milliwatts), while the armature can support 120V AC at 2 amps (240 watts).
Relays are quite common in home appliances where there is an electronic control turning on something like a motor or a light. They are also common in cars, where the 12V supply voltage means that just about everything needs a large amount of current. In later model cars, manufacturers have started combining relay panels into the fuse box to make maintenance easier. For example, the six gray boxes in this photo of a Ford Windstar fuse box are all relays:
I could not copy the image. it is a typical power distribution box in a car showing fuses and relays.
ps. It was my understanding that the relays in the distribution box for my 99 ford ranger ie. starter, fuelpump, blower motor were elctromagnets. someone please correct me if I am wrong
