No Power in Car Cigarette Lighter?
3 Answers
No power in the car cigarette lighter could be due to a blown fuse or a loose plug. Here are some precautions regarding the use of the cigarette lighter: 1. Avoid using high-power electrical devices on the cigarette lighter. The maximum power capacity of a cigarette lighter is generally 120W. Exceeding this value can easily overload the lighter, leading to various hazards such as burning out the lighter. 2. Start the vehicle when using the cigarette lighter for an extended period. If you need to use the cigarette lighter for a long time or with high-power devices, start the car engine to enhance power supply, preventing excessive drain on the car battery. 3. Properly insert and remove the cigarette lighter plug. The cigarette lighter has a separate fuse. The correct method is to insert and remove it vertically. Avoid pulling it out while shaking, as frequent shaking can loosen the fuse and cause a short circuit, potentially burning out the fuse and external devices. 4. Unplug external devices promptly after parking. When the vehicle is turned off, quickly remove any external devices connected to the cigarette lighter. Otherwise, when the vehicle starts, the high current surge may damage the device. 5. Regularly clean the heating wire of the cigarette lighter. Since the cigarette needs to touch the heating wire when lighting, avoid pressing it too hard. If tobacco or other debris falls into the heating wire, clean it promptly to extend the lighter's lifespan. 6. Prevent foreign objects from entering the cigarette lighter socket. In vehicles with children, check if the cigarette lighter has been stuffed with foreign objects to avoid damaging it.
I often use the cigarette lighter to charge my phone while driving, and it’s definitely annoying when it suddenly stops working. The most common issue is a blown fuse, as overloading occurs when too many devices like dash cams or chargers are plugged in, especially during hot summer days when circuits are prone to overheating. You can open the engine compartment’s fuse box, usually located in the compartment near the driver’s seat, and try replacing it with a 15A fuse. If that doesn’t work, the socket might be worn out or short-circuited, or there could be poor wiring contact. Don’t attempt to fix it yourself, as it may lead to electric shock or circuit damage—it’s best to visit a trusted repair shop. To avoid such minor issues and extend the cigarette lighter’s lifespan, minimize connecting multiple devices at once. Since all vehicle electronics rely on the power supply system, regularly check the cigarette lighter and battery to prevent unexpected failures.
As someone who knows a bit about cars, I think the most likely reason for a cigarette lighter having no power is a blown fuse, located in the corresponding slot labeled 'ACC' or 'CIG' in the car's fuse box. It automatically cuts off when there's an overload to protect the circuit. First, unplug all devices, then manually check if the fuse is broken. If there's a break, replace it with a new 15A fuse. If the socket is deformed or has a burnt smell, there might be a short circuit. Tools like a multimeter can test the voltage, but non-professionals should avoid touching wires to prevent battery short circuits and overheating. The overall vehicle circuit, including the alternator and battery, affects the cigarette lighter. Older cars' wiring is prone to aging, so it's advisable to clean the socket every few months to maintain a good connection.
