Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you desperately need to charge your phone or use your GPS, only to find out that your car cigarette lighter is not working? Don’t worry, you don’t have to go to a mechanic and spend a lot of money to fix it. In this article, we will guide you on how to fix a broken car cigarette lighter by yourself.
Step 1: Check the Fuse
The first thing you should do is to check the fuse. The fuse is a safety device that protects the circuit from overloading and short-circuiting. You can find the fuse box in your car’s user manual or by searching online. Once you find it, locate the fuse that corresponds to the cigarette lighter and check if it’s blown out. If it is, replace it with a new one and test the lighter again.
Step 2: Check the Wiring
If the fuse is not the problem, the next step is to check the wiring. Sometimes, the wiring may get loose or disconnected, causing the cigarette lighter to stop working. To check the wiring, you need to remove the lighter socket and examine the wires behind it. If you find any loose or disconnected wires, reconnect them and test the lighter again.
Step 3: Clean the Lighter Socket
If the fuse and wiring are not the issue, the problem may be due to dirt and debris accumulated in the lighter socket. To clean it, you can use a can of compressed air or a small brush to remove any debris. Be sure to turn off the car and disconnect the battery before cleaning to avoid any accidents.
Step 4: Replace the Lighter Socket
If none of the above steps work, the problem may be due to a faulty lighter socket. In this case, you need to replace the socket with a new one. You can buy a replacement socket from an auto parts store or online. To replace it, you need to remove the old socket and install the new one. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and test the lighter again.
Step 5: Visit a Mechanic
If you have tried all of the above steps and the cigarette lighter still doesn’t work, it may be time to visit a mechanic. The problem may be due to a more serious issue with the electrical system of your car, which requires professional help.
Conclusion
Fixing a broken car cigarette lighter is not as difficult as it may seem. By following these simple steps, you can save time and money by repairing it yourself. Remember to always be careful and follow the safety precautions to avoid any accidents. If you are unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.