* Under the hood, in the fuse box: This is the most common location. The fuse box is usually located near the battery, often on the driver's side fender well. Check carefully within the fuse box itself – some relays are mounted on the inside of the cover, others might be in a separate relay panel attached to or near the fuse box. Consult your owner's manual or a wiring diagram for your specific vehicle to be sure.
* Under the dash: Less common, but possible. Some S10s had some relays located under the dash, typically near the fuse panel under the steering column.
To find it, you'll need to:
1. Consult your owner's manual: This is the best place to start. The manual should have a diagram showing the location of all relays and fuses.
2. Check your fuse box: Carefully examine both the fuses and relays inside the underhood fuse box. Look for one labeled "AC," "A/C," or something similar. You might also find a relay that is visibly connected to the AC system wiring.
3. Use a wiring diagram: If you can't find it using the above methods, obtain a wiring diagram specific to your year and model S10. This will show you exactly where the AC relay is located and what wires connect to it. You can often find these online through automotive repair websites, or at a local auto parts store.
4. Trace the wires: If all else fails, you can trace the wires from the AC compressor to find the relay. This requires some mechanical aptitude and knowledge of automotive wiring. Be extremely careful when working with automotive electrical systems to avoid short circuits.
Remember to always disconnect the negative battery terminal before working on any electrical components in your vehicle.
