I own a '98 Sebring Jxi 6-cyl. Conv. that is blowing the 20-amp fuse, #8 Ignition fuel starter, located in the engine compartment fuse box. The problem started after a big rain just sitting, not driving (co-incidence?) It only happens when I try to start the car. The fuse does not blow with the key in the ignition position, but when I try to crank the engine over -the fuse blows. I get no error lights and lose the display when the fuse blows. I hear nothing, no clicking, no relay engaging because the fuse blows first. I eliminated the starter by removing the cable running to the starter - but the fuse still blows. The battery is charged and even jumping the battery didn't keep the fuse from blowing, so it's not a weak battery problem. Radio on or off makes no difference. I checked the resistance on all the relays. Since they all are the same P/N I moved them around but this didn't change anything either, so I don't think it's a relay problem. Any ideas?

 

a wire or what ever the fuse powers up is shorting it out

 

the starter was arcing out on the nearest metal. We pried it alittle further away and it has not returned. I was going through about 10 or so fuses a week for about a 6 months before my buddy had it lifted up and noticed how close it was. I hope this helps.

 

Ive seen quite a few of these which can go either way...It isnt nearly out of the question for a starter motor itself to do this.