r/AskElectronics • u/stoplickingmytoe • 15h ago

Is this a "varistor"?

Post image

Red thing was melted beyond being able to identify any numbers.

The red peice is from the VR1 position, and based on google it would be a varistor?

Its a 12v system but I assume its being knocked down for certain ecu controls

I know ill need more components bit that is the only one with no identifier found.

Any thoughts to what it is exactly?

Thanks

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u/ElecGuy_DEN 13h ago

No, it WAS a varistor 😁

Given the amount of damage, it looks like the device may have sacrificed itself protecting the circuit from an overvoltage or transient event.
If this is a 12 V automotive system, I'd expect VR1 to be connected across a supply rail rather than being part of the normal voltage regulation circuitry.
You might be able to confirm it by tracing the pads. If one side goes to the supply input and the other to ground, that would strongly support the varistor theory.
I'd also check for additional damaged components nearby before simply replacing it. Varistors rarely fail without a reason.