They are most commonly called 12-volt auxiliary power outlets or 12V sockets. While many people still refer to them as "cigarette lighters," that name comes from the removable heating element that was originally designed for lighting cigarettes. The actual socket itself, which is now almost exclusively used for powering electronics, has the proper technical name of a 12V auxiliary outlet.
The key difference is the component. The cigarette lighter is the specific device that heats up and plugs into the socket. The 12V outlet is the socket itself, a universal port in your car that provides direct current (DC) power from the vehicle's battery. Since smoking in cars has become less common, the lighter element is rarely included as a standard feature in new vehicles, but the power socket remains incredibly useful.
Today, these outlets are essential for plugging in devices like phone chargers, portable tire inflators, dash cams, or coolers. They typically provide 120 watts (10 amps) of power, which is sufficient for most small electronics but may not be enough for high-power appliances like laptops or kettles without a special power inverter. It's important to check your device's power requirements before plugging it in.
| Common 12V Accessory | Typical Power Draw (Watts) |
|---|
| Smartphone Charger | 5 - 18W |
| Dash Cam | 5 - 10W |
| Portable Tire Inflator | 100 - 150W |
| 12V Cooler / Warmer | 40 - 60W |
| Air Compressor (for inflatables) | 70 - 100W |
For higher power needs, many modern cars now also include AC inverters or more powerful USB-C ports that can deliver faster charging. Always remember to unplug accessories when the car is off to avoid draining the battery.
