Nissan Repair: Alternator and fuses, body control module, power relay

Question
QUESTION: I recently had my alternator replaced after the body shop called me and told me the fuses kept blowing when they started the car. After the new alternator was installed, the radio w/CD didn't work nor did the compass/temp gauge/mirror combo. Could incorrect installation of the alternator cause these things to stop working. They replaced the fuses today and the mirror is still not working. They said something about a module not getting power.

ANSWER: Sandy,

At the positive battery post there is a set of fuses or fuse links.  These need to be checked to make sure they have not been blown.  The other one they replaced will not correct this.  When a battery is low or the alternator is defective it will cause an overload of the circuit.  The fuse or fuse link gets hot and melts.  This is how it protects the circuits.  Now, it is a matter of sorting out the problem and I would look at the wire at the positive terminal of the battery.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: So, could this cause the problem of my compass mirror not working? Could the mechanic have reconnected the alternator incorrectly? I just want to know if this is something they should have already checked. What is this module he's talking about?

Answer
Sandy,

The compass is not controlled by the body control module.  If the power relay that feeds the compass/mirror is defective you need to have them check it.  If he is certain it is the body control module have him show you objective evidence of this.  Email me back with what you find.