How to fix a cigarette lighter in a car?
EASIEST WAY TO FIX A CAR CIGARETTE LIGHTER
A cigarette lighter socket is a small metal receptacle found in most automobiles. It powers electrical devices by connecting them to the car’s battery. Additionally, its use is to light up Cigarettes. The socket is usually near the ashtray or center console.
The Cigarette lighter socket was first invented in the early 1900s and has been a standard feature in cars ever since. It powers devices such as cell phone chargers and GPS units.
While the socket is an effortless device, it plays an essential role in keeping us connected and powered up while on the road.
Fortunately, fixing a cigarette lighter is relatively easy and only requires a few tools. This article will teach you all the ways to fix a cigarette lighter.
What is a Cigarette lighter socket in a car?
A cigarette lighter socket in a vehicle is a small receptacle for electrical power devices using the Cigarette lighter as an electrical source. The most common use for this socket is to power portable electronic devices, such as cell phones, GPS units, and MP3 players.
How does the Cigarette lighter socket works?
The Cigarette lighter socket works by providing a 12-volt DC power source that is regulated by the car’s ignition system. The cigarette lighter socket will power any devices put into it when the ignition key is in the “On” or “Accessory” position.
Common Reasons for a cigarette lighter not working:
1: Blown fuse:
One of the most common reasons a cigarette lighter might stop working is because the fuse has blown. This is usually caused by an electrical short or surge, and it’s easy to check if this is the problem.
2: Objects stuck inside the Cigarette lighter:
Another common issue is that objects can become lodged inside the Cigarette lighter socket, preventing it from making contact with whatever you’re trying to plug in.
The best way to remove an object from a socket is to use needle-nose pliers, although a paperclip can also work in a pinch. Just be careful not to damage the socket itself in the process.
3: Wiring Problems:
If neither of those solutions fixes your problem, then there’s likely an issue with the wiring leading to the Cigarette lighter socket. This is generally more difficult to fix and will likely require professional help.
How do you clean a Cigarette lighter socket?
If your cigarette lighter is not working, cleaning the socket is one of the first things you should try. Over time, the socket can become filled with dirt and debris, preventing the connection from being made.
To clean the socket, you will need a small brush or toothpick. Put a bit of regular baking soda in the socket. Gently insert the brush into the socket and move it around to remove any dirt or debris after soaking it in vinegar. Rust and corrosion will start to dissolve due to a chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar.
If the socket is still malfunctioning after cleaning, you may need to replace the fuse.
How to fix a Cigarette lighter blown a fuse?
Instruments needed:
Most people think they need special instruments to fix their cigarette lighters, but the truth is that you might have everything you need at home to fix the cigarette lighter. For this project, you will need a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a wire cutter.
If you don’t have a wire cutter, you can use a knife or a pair of scissors. Take care not to damage any of the wires.
Step 1: Find the Cigarette lighter fuse panel.
The first step is to locate the Cigarette lighter fuse panel. This is usually located under the dash or in the glove box. Once you have found the fuse panel, look for a diagram showing which fuse controls the cigarette lighter.
Step 2: Remove the cover or lid
Once you have found the correct fuse, use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the cover or lid from the fuse panel. While doing this, be careful not to touch fuses since they can be live and shock you with electricity.
Step 3: Testing the fuse
Once the cover or lid is off, use a multimeter or test light to test the continuity of the fuse. When there is no continuity, a new fuse has to be installed because the old one has blown.
Step 4; Remove the fuse.
Carefully remove the blown a fuse from its socket in the fuse panel using a pair of needle-nose pliers. While doing this, be careful not to touch fuses since they can be live and shock you with electricity.
Step 5: Replace the fuse
Once you have removed the old fuse, insert a new one into its socket in the fuse panel and make sure that it is seated snugly and securely in place before replacing the cover or lid on top of it.
Step 6: Test the fuse again:
To test the fuse, switch on the circuit’s electricity and check the circuit’s continuity with a multimeter. If the multimeter shows continuity, then the fuse is working correctly. A new fuse has to be placed if there is no continuity.
Note: If the Cigarette lighter is not working after replacing the fuse again and again, then the problem is likely with the Cigarette lighter itself or the wiring system. You should visit an auto repair shop.
What to do if the issue is with the Cigarette lighter itself?
If your cigarette lighter isn’t working and you’ve checked the fuse, the problem may be with the Cigarette lighter socket.
To test it, first, ensure there’s nothing plugged into it. Then, use a multimeter to test for power at the socket. If there is no power, the socket has to be changed since it is broken.
Replacing a cigarette lighter socket is relatively easy.
- First, remove the old socket by unscrewing it from the dashboard.
- Then, insert the new socket into the hole and screw it.
- Finally, reconnect the wires and test the new socket to ensure it works.
