I have been attempting to trace a short that blows fuse 16 in my '88 245 and have been as of yet unsuccessful. My suspicions that it was to do with the right tail light circuit was proved wrong. I then went in search of the problem in the lamp out relay, also to no avail. I then removed the instrument cluster, assuming it might hold some secrets. While my troubleshooting there bore no fruit, I am pleased to discover the cluster is an easier removal than I anticipated. Perhaps I can finally tackle that odo gear that's been put off for at least five oil changes.

Anyhow, I am at a loss for where this short might be hiding. Has anyone out there had the same trouble on fuse 16? I would love to hear from you!

Thanks.

Does the fuse blow just by starting the car or do you have to turn something on?
With the fuse out, is there a short from the low side of the fuse to ground?
Can you disconnect each wire on the low side of the fuse and measure the resistance to ground on each?

Isn't that the one with console ashtray lights on the same fuse...if so, there are I believe a total of three bulbs (left and right seat belt and ashtray) and the wiring to all are suspect because of everything from spilled sodas to pinched wires re-installing the console or adjusting the tension on the e-brake cables.

Number One reported reason for fuse 16 blowing is the rear ash tray lamp wiring in the step kids use to get to the back seat from the front (IOW the p-brake console).
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Art Benstein near Baltimore

A group of chess enthusiasts checked into a hotel and were standing in the lobby discussing their recent tournament victories. After about an hour, the manager came out of the office and asked them to disperse "But why," they asked, as they moved off. "Because", he said, "I can't stand chess-nuts boasting in an open foyer."

It turned out to be the wiring to the ashtray light, as you had suggested, Art. Thank you for directing me there.

" My suspicions that it was to do with the right tail light circuit was proved wrong."
http://www.volvowiringdiagrams.com/volvo/240%20Wiring%20Diagrams/Volvo%20240%201988.pdf figure 3

Doesn't show rear lights hooked up. Rather right front parking light.
Regardless just pull the gray wires one at a time to isolate the problem.
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1980 245 Canadian B21A with SU carb, M46 trans, 3:31 dif, in Brampton, Ont.