If your cigarette lighter has stopped working, one of the first things you should check is the fuse. A blown fuse can prevent the lighter from getting power, and it’s a relatively easy fix. In this article, we’ll show you how to replace a cigarette lighter fuse in just a few simple steps.
Before you start, it’s important to gather the tools you’ll need. You’ll need a new fuse, a pair of needle-nose pliers, and a small screwdriver. Once you have your tools, you can follow these steps to replace the fuse:
1. Locate the fuse box. The fuse box is usually located under the dashboard, but it can vary depending on the make and model of your car. Once you’ve found the fuse box,
open it up and locate the fuse for the cigarette lighter. It should be labeled “Cigarette Lighter” or “Power Outlet”.
2. Remove the old fuse. Use the needle-nose pliers to gently pull the old fuse out of the fuse box. Be careful not to touch the metal contacts on the fuse, as this can damage it.
3. Insert the new fuse. Take the new fuse and insert it into the fuse box. Make sure that the fuse is properly seated in the fuse box, and that the metal contacts are making good contact.
4. Close the fuse box. Once you’ve inserted the new fuse, close the fuse box and tighten the screws.
5. Test the cigarette lighter. Turn on the ignition and try using the cigarette lighter. If the lighter works, then you’ve successfully replaced the fuse.
Identifying the Cigarette Lighter Fuse
Pinpointing the appropriate fuse for your vehicle’s cigarette lighter can be a confusing task, especially considering the variations in fuse box locations and fuse configurations among different makes and models. To simplify this process, refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual, which will provide comprehensive information on fuse identification and replacement procedures.
Consulting the Owner’s Manual
Locate the fuse box diagram and index within the owner’s manual. Each fuse will be labeled with a specific designation, such as “CIG LIGHTER,” “ACC,” or “POWER OUTLET.” The diagram will indicate the fuse’s precise location within the fuse box.
Checking the Fuse Panel
Open the fuse box and inspect the interior. Fuses are typically arranged in rows and columns and are easily identifiable by their colored caps and the printed numerical or alphabetical codes on their sides. Match the fuse’s code to the one listed in the owner’s manual to determine if it is the cigarette lighter fuse.
Checking the Fuse
Use a fuse tester or visually inspect the fuse to verify if it has blown. A blown fuse will have a visible break in the filament that runs through its center. If the fuse appears intact, it may still be faulty and should be replaced as a precaution.
Once the cigarette lighter fuse has been identified, you can proceed to replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating. Always refer to the owner’s manual for specific fuse amperage and replacement instructions.
| Fuse Location | Fuse Designation | Amperage Rating | |||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fuse Box Under Dashboard | CIG LIGHTER | 15A | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Engine Compartment Fuse Box | ACC | 20A | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fuse Panel Behind Glove Box | POWER OUTLET | 10A | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Passenger Compartment | Under the dashboard, near the driver’s side footwell |
| Under the Hood | On the firewall, near the battery or air filter housing |
| In the Trunk | Around the wheel well areas in the rear interior of the trunk |
Removing the Old Fuse
Before working on any electrical components, it is crucial to disconnect the vehicle’s battery to prevent short circuits or electrical shocks. Once the battery is disconnected, follow these steps to remove the old fuse:
- Locate the fuse box: Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the location of the fuse box that contains the cigarette lighter fuse.
- Identify the cigarette lighter fuse: Refer to the fuse diagram inside the fuse box to identify the fuse that corresponds to the cigarette lighter. The diagram will typically indicate the location and amperage rating of the fuse.
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Remove the old fuse: Most fuse boxes use a built-in fuse puller or provide one in a small compartment within the box.
Inserting the fuse puller into the slot next to the fuse, gently pry the fuse upwards to release it. Avoid touching the metal contacts of the fuse to prevent damage or electrical shocks.
If a fuse puller is not available, you can carefully use a pair of needle-nose pliers to grip the edges of the fuse and remove it. Again, handle the fuse with caution and avoid touching the metal contacts.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Check the Cigarette Lighter Fuse
Your cigarette lighter fuse is typically located in the fuse box under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Consult your vehicle’s fuse diagram to identify the correct fuse. If the fuse is blown, you need to replace it with a fuse of the same amperage rating.
2. Inspect the Wiring
Inspect the wiring connected to the cigarette lighter for any damage or loose connections. Look for frayed or burnt wires, and tighten any loose connections you find.
3. Clean the Terminals
The terminals on the cigarette lighter and the socket it plugs into can become corroded over time. Use a soft cloth or a cotton swab to clean both terminals with rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt or corrosion.
4. Inspect the Power Outlet
The power outlet itself can fail due to a variety of reasons. Ensure the power outlet is clean and free of debris. If the outlet is damaged, you may need to replace it with a new one.
5. Reset the Electrical System
Sometimes, the electrical system may need to be reset to resolve issues with the cigarette lighter. To do this, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for a few minutes and then reconnect it. This will reset the electrical system and may resolve any electrical glitches causing problems with the cigarette lighter.
6. Check for other Electrical Issues
If you have checked all of the above and the cigarette lighter still does not work, there may be other electrical issues in your vehicle. You may need to consult a professional mechanic to diagnose and repair these issues.
Safety Precautions
1. Disconnect the Battery
Before replacing any fuse, always disconnect the battery’s negative terminal. This will prevent any electrical shocks or damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.
2. Locate the Fuse Box
The fuse box is typically located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for its exact location.
3. Identify the Cigarette Lighter Fuse
The cigarette lighter fuse is usually labeled "CIGAR" or "ACC" in the fuse box. However, it’s best to refer to your vehicle’s fuse diagram for the specific location and rating of the fuse.
4. Remove the Fuse
Use a fuse puller or needle-nose pliers to gently remove the blown fuse. Inspect the fuse for any signs of damage, such as a broken wire or burned-out element.
5. Replace the Fuse
If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage rating. Do not use a fuse with a higher amperage rating, as this could cause damage to the electrical system.
6. Inspect the Cigarette Lighter Circuit
Once the new fuse is installed, reconnect the battery and test the cigarette lighter. If it still doesn’t work, there may be an issue with the cigarette lighter circuit itself. Inspect the wiring for any loose connections or damage.
Troubleshooting Table:
| Troubleshooting Step | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Cigarette lighter fuse blows repeatedly | Short circuit in the cigarette lighter circuit | Disconnect cigarette lighter components and inspect wiring for damage |
| Cigarette lighter not working even with a new fuse | Faulty cigarette lighter | Replace cigarette lighter |
| Cigarette lighter works intermittently | Loose connections in the circuit | Tighten connections and inspect wiring for damage |
Tips for Prevention
Preventing a blown cigarette lighter fuse is crucial to maintain the functionality of your vehicle’s electrical system. Here are some preventive measures:
1. Avoid Overloading
Excessive electrical load can strain the fuse and cause it to blow. Avoid plugging too many accessories into your car’s 12-volt outlets.
2. Check Connections
Loose or damaged electrical connections can lead to short circuits and fuse failure. Regularly inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage.
3. Use Appropriate Fuse
Always replace a blown fuse with one of the correct amperage rating. Using a fuse with a higher amperage can lead to overheating and electrical damage.
4. Keep It Clean
Dust and dirt can accumulate around the fuse panel and cause corrosion. Keep the area clean to prevent electrical issues.
5. Test Regularly
If you frequently blow fuses, consider having your vehicle’s electrical system inspected by a qualified mechanic. They can identify and resolve any underlying electrical problems, such as a faulty alternator or battery.
6. Check Fuse Holder
The fuse holder may become loose or corroded over time, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Inspect the fuse holder regularly for any signs of damage.
7. Identify the Cause
If your cigarette lighter fuse blows repeatedly, it’s essential to identify the underlying cause. Consult an electrician or mechanic to determine the exact issue and prevent future fuse failures. Common causes include faulty appliances, shorted wires, and malfunctioning electrical components.
By following these tips, you can effectively reduce the risk of cigarette lighter fuse failures and ensure the smooth functioning of your vehicle’s electrical system.
Using Jumper Cables as an Alternative
In case you don’t have a spare fuse handy, you can use jumper cables to temporarily bypass the blown fuse and restore power to your cigarette lighter. Here’s how:
- Park your car next to another vehicle with a working battery.
- Connect one end of the positive jumper cable (usually red) to the positive terminal on the dead battery.
- Connect the other end of the positive jumper cable to the positive terminal on the working battery.
- Connect one end of the negative jumper cable (usually black) to the negative terminal on the working battery.
- Connect the other end of the negative jumper cable to an unpainted metal surface on the vehicle with the blown fuse.
- Start the engine of the vehicle with the working battery.
- Test the cigarette lighter to see if it’s working.
- Once the cigarette lighter is working, disconnect the jumper cables in reverse order: first the negative cable from the unpainted metal surface, then the negative cable from the working battery, then the positive cable from the working battery, and finally the positive cable from the dead battery.
Remember that using jumper cables as an alternative is only a temporary solution. It’s recommended to replace the blown fuse as soon as possible to prevent any electrical problems.
How To Replace Cigarette Lighter Fuse
1. Safety First
Before you start working on your car’s electrical system, it’s always important to take safety precautions. Make sure the car is parked in a safe place and that the engine is turned off. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical shocks.
2. Locate the Fuse Box
The fuse box is usually located under the dashboard, either on the driver’s side or the passenger’s side. Consult your car’s manual to find the exact location.
3. Identify the Cigarette Lighter Fuse
Once you’ve located the fuse box, you need to identify the fuse that powers the cigarette lighter. The fuse will be labeled either “CIG” or “Cigarette Lighter.”
4. Remove the Old Fuse
Use a fuse puller or a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently remove the old fuse from its socket.
5. Inspect the Fuse
Inspect the old fuse to see if it’s blown. A blown fuse will have a broken filament.
6. Insert the New Fuse
Insert the new fuse into the socket, making sure that it’s oriented correctly. The fuse should fit snugly into the socket.
7. Test the Cigarette Lighter
Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery and turn on the car. Test the cigarette lighter to make sure it’s working properly.
8. Troubleshooting
If the cigarette lighter still doesn’t work after replacing the fuse, there may be another problem. Check the wiring to the cigarette lighter and make sure that it’s not damaged.
9. Consult a Mechanic
If you’re not comfortable replacing the cigarette lighter fuse yourself, or if you’ve tried troubleshooting and the problem persists, you can consult a mechanic.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a cigarette lighter fuse is a relatively simple task that can be done in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily fix a broken cigarette lighter and get back to enjoying your smoke-free drive.
| Fuse Location | Fuse Type |
|---|---|
| Under the dashboard, driver’s side | Mini fuse |
| Under the dashboard, passenger’s side | Standard fuse |
How To Replace Cigarette Lighter Fuse
If your cigarette lighter is not working, one possible cause is a blown fuse. Replacing the fuse is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. Here are the steps on how to replace cigarette lighter fuse:
- Locate the fuse box. The fuse box is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. It is a small, black box with a lid that can be opened.
- Identify the cigarette lighter fuse. The fuse for the cigarette lighter is usually labeled with a picture of a cigarette lighter or the letters "CL."
- Remove the blown fuse. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove the blown fuse from the fuse box.
- Insert a new fuse. Insert a new fuse of the same amperage as the blown fuse into the fuse box.
- Close the fuse box lid. Close the lid of the fuse box and snap it into place.
- Test the cigarette lighter. Turn on the ignition and test the cigarette lighter to make sure it is working.
People Also Ask About How To Replace Cigarette Lighter Fuse
How do I know if the cigarette lighter fuse is blown?
If your cigarette lighter is not working, one way to tell if the fuse is blown is to look at the fuse. If the fuse is blown, the wire inside the fuse will be broken.
What amperage fuse do I need for my cigarette lighter?
The amperage of the fuse you need for your cigarette lighter will depend on the make and model of your vehicle. You can find the correct amperage fuse by looking in your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Where is the cigarette lighter fuse located?
The cigarette lighter fuse is usually located in the fuse box under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
