The engine starts, runs for a second, and then dies. No DTCs are present. Which fuse could be to blame?

When diagnosing an engine that starts briefly and then dies without any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) present, it’s crucial to consider which systems might be impacted by a blown fuse. In this scenario, a fuse associated with critical engine operation components is a likely suspect.

The choice identified as the correct answer likely corresponds to a fuse that powers essential elements of the engine management system, which could include components like the fuel pump relay or the ignition system. If either of these systems is receiving insufficient power due to a blown fuse, it could result in the engine starting momentarily before stalling.

Fuses that do not correspond to critical engine operation would not be relevant in this case, as they wouldn't pertain to the systems responsible for the immediate operation of the engine. Therefore, identifying a fuse related to ignition or fuel delivery is key to understanding why a lack of power could lead to the engine starting and then dying quickly.

This reasoning highlights the importance of understanding the electrical schematics of the vehicle and how specific fuses correlate to operational system functions. In troubleshooting, pinpointing the right fuse linked to necessary systems greatly aids in diagnosing issues effectively.