Having a cigarette lighter in your car is a convenient feature that allows you to charge your phone or use other electronic devices on the go. However, if your car’s cigarette lighter is not working, it can be frustrating. In this article, we will show you how to fix the cigarette lighter in your car in a few simple steps.
Step 1: Check the Fuse
The first thing you need to check when your cigarette lighter is not working is the fuse. The fuse is located in the fuse box, which is usually under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Check the owner’s manual to find the location of the fuse box.
Once you have located the fuse box, find the fuse that is responsible for the cigarette lighter. The fuse box cover will have a diagram showing which fuse is which. Remove the fuse and check if it’s blown. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one. You can buy a replacement fuse at any auto parts store.
Step 2: Check the Cigarette Lighter Element
If the fuse is not the problem, the next thing you need to check is the cigarette lighter element. The cigarette lighter element is the part that heats up and allows you to light a cigarette. Sometimes, this element can become dirty or corroded, causing it to stop working.
To check the cigarette lighter element, remove the cigarette lighter from the dashboard or console. Use a multimeter to check if there is continuity between the two terminals on the back of the cigarette lighter. If there is no continuity, the element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Step 3: Replace the Cigarette Lighter
If both the fuse and the cigarette lighter element are working correctly, the problem may be with the cigarette lighter socket itself. In this case, you will need to replace the entire cigarette lighter.
To replace the cigarette lighter, start by removing the old one from the dashboard or console. Disconnect the wiring harness and remove the mounting bracket. Install the new cigarette lighter in the reverse order and test it to see if it’s working correctly.
Step 4: Test the Cigarette Lighter
Once you have replaced the cigarette lighter, test it to make sure it’s working correctly. Insert a device that requires power into the cigarette lighter socket and see if it powers on. If it does, congratulations, you have successfully fixed your cigarette lighter.
Conclusion
Fixing your car’s cigarette lighter is a simple process that can save you money and frustration. By following these steps, you can quickly diagnose and fix the problem, allowing you to charge your phone or use other electronic devices on the go.