Overview

For my TECM 5185 course, I participated in the iFixit Fast Fix Project, where I was tasked with creating a step-by-step repair guide for a real-world product. I chose to document the process of replacing a fuse box in a 2010 Cadillac DTS 4.6L V8, a known issue among Cadillac owners due to a defect with the fuel pump relay. This hands-on project allowed me to contribute to iFixit’s growing database of open-source repair guides while practicing technical writing, visual documentation, and audience-centered communication.

Context

• Course: TECM 5185 – Writing Technical Manuals
• Project Type: Individual-based real-world writing assignment
• Partner Organization: iFixit
• Time Frame: Fall 2023
• Camera Used: iPhone 12

Task

The main task was to identify a repairable item that lacks proper documentation and produce a clear, illustrated guide that would help users confidently complete the task. I selected a problem I personally encountered—replacing a melted fuse box in a 2010 Cadillac DTS. This is a recurring issue for this car model, and there was no existing fuse box replacement guide available online.

The guide was expected to follow iFixit’s house style and meet accessibility, clarity, and usability standards. The image below is a portion of my proposal. You can view the full proposal at the end of this page.

Approach

I approached the project with a user-first mindset. Knowing this was an automotive repair involving electrical components, I prioritized safety, clarity, and high-quality visual documentation. My process included:

• Step Planning: I broke the repair into 6–7 discrete steps, covering disassembly, removal, fuse transfer, and reinstallation.
• Photography: I used my iPhone 12 to take clear, close-up images of each step.
• Tools: Only a 10 mm torque wrench was needed, making the project highly accessible.
• Writing Style: I used simple, direct language to make the process easy to follow for beginners.
• Visual Order: I paired each step with a corresponding image, highlighting critical elements like battery disconnection and screw locations

I also submitted the work through iFixit’s internal system, following their proposal and revision process.

Results

The project was a success on multiple levels:

• Published Guide: My step-by-step instructional is now live on iFixit and helps Cadillac DTS owners avoid costly mechanic visits.
• Recognition: I earned a perfect score on the assignment and contributed a meaningful artifact to my technical writing portfolio.
• Audience Impact: The guide fills a content gap for a real automotive issue and could potentially save users hundreds to thousands of dollars.
• Skill Development:
  • Practiced structured documentation and photo-based instruction
  • Learned to write for a global, DIY-focused audience
  • Enhanced my ability to anticipate user errors and safety concerns

The hands-on nature of this project allowed me to see how effective documentation can empower people to fix their own equipment—an experience that reinforced the power of technical communication.

Explore the Full Instructional Guide

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