Does the BMW 5 Series trunk have a cigarette lighter?
3 Answers
The BMW 5 Series trunk does not have a cigarette lighter. The front cigarette lighter in the BMW 5 Series is located in the storage compartment in front of the gear lever, while the rear cigarette lighter is below the air conditioning vents. The usage method of the cigarette lighter is as follows: Press the button to start heating: The cigarette lighter is quite intuitive, with a circular button depicting a cigarette (or voltage value). Press the button, and after 10-60 seconds, the cigarette lighter device will pop up, accompanied by an audible click. Avoid holding it upside down to prevent burns: Note that you should hold the popped-up side and use the other side to light the cigarette by gently touching it to the heating element. Do not use while driving: Using a lighter while driving poses safety hazards, making the cigarette lighter particularly significant.
The BMW 5 Series trunk typically features a 12V power socket, which can serve as a cigarette lighter port. In many models, such as the post-2020 updated 5 Series, this interface is designed on the left sidewall or side panel of the trunk, allowing owners to conveniently plug in cigarette lighter charging devices, such as for phones, power banks, or portable refrigerators. I find this quite practical, especially during long trips, as it eliminates the need to run cables from the front seats—everything can be handled directly in the trunk. If you check your vehicle manual or lift the trunk cover, you’ll usually spot a small circular socket symbol. However, the exact location may vary depending on the configuration; higher trims more commonly include it, while base models may require it as an optional add-on. Overall, it ensures flexible use of space, saving you the hassle of running back and forth—a thoughtful design.
The presence of a cigarette lighter in the trunk varies across different model years and versions of the BMW 5 Series. Having driven this car for several years, I've noticed that facelifted models post-2018 typically feature a 12V socket in the right corner of the trunk, which can accommodate standard cigarette lighter plugs or USB adapters. Base models might lack this feature, but higher trims like the 530Li Luxury Edition come equipped with it. This design prioritizes practicality, making it easier to power devices like car refrigerators or travel gear. I recommend checking your vehicle's manual or using a phone light to inspect the trunk walls for hidden ports. If absent, you can install an aftermarket accessory, but ensure it doesn't interfere with the original wiring. Overall, most 5 Series owners confirm this socket's presence, significantly enhancing daily convenience.
