Circuit Breaker: Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Dodge Sprinter. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The circuit breaker contains a bi-metal strip sandwiched between two contacts forming the connection in the circuit. An overload condition causes the bi-metal strip to heat and bend to the open position, disconnecting current flow to the circuit. Then as the system overload or short circuit is removed, the bi-metal strip cools, re-establishing contact to allow current flow to the circuit.