What is the general voltage of a car cigarette lighter?
2 Answers
For sedans, light passenger and cargo vehicles, and gasoline-powered vehicles, the cigarette lighter is 12V, while for large buses and heavy trucks, it is 24V. Here are some specific details about the cigarette lighter: 1. Function of the car cigarette lighter: In addition to lighting cigarettes, the car cigarette lighter can also be equipped with a car inverter for use with ordinary electrical appliances, such as charging electronic devices like mobile phones. 2. Method for measuring the voltage of the cigarette lighter: Prepare a multimeter, set the range to 50V, use the black probe of the multimeter to test the outer wall of the cigarette lighter socket, and the red probe to test the center of the socket base. After the test, the value displayed on the multimeter is the voltage of the cigarette lighter. 3. Precautions for using the cigarette lighter: The cigarette lighter is a component found in all cars, mainly used in places where open flames are prohibited.
The cigarette lighter is generally connected to the vehicle's electrical circuit, and both new and old cars operate at a standard voltage of 12 volts. After starting the engine, the alternator generates electricity, raising the voltage to around 14 volts to charge the battery. In practical use, I've measured it—when charging via the cigarette lighter with the engine running, the voltmeter fluctuates between 13.6 and 14.2 volts. However, it's worth noting that large commercial vehicles like trucks may use a 24-volt system, doubling the cigarette lighter voltage. It's best to avoid plugging in high-power appliances directly, as cigarette lighter fuses typically have a capacity of only 10 to 15 amps.
