What is the input voltage of a car cigarette lighter?
2 Answers
Car cigarette lighter voltage varies depending on the vehicle size. The voltage for small passenger cars is 12V, while large transport vehicles use 24V. The cigarette lighter is a standard component in nearly every vehicle, serving not only as a smoking accessory but also enabling the installation of car power inverters. Primarily used in fire-restricted areas like factories and workshops where open flames are prohibited, the cigarette lighter provides a safe alternative for lighting cigarettes. Additionally, beyond its smoking function, car cigarette lighters can convert 12V, 24V or 48V DC power from vehicles into 220V 50Hz AC electricity for powering common electrical devices.
I drive to and from work every day and use my car regularly. The cigarette lighter socket is one of my most frequently used charging points, typically providing 12 volts of DC power, which matches the car battery's voltage and is a standard feature. Every time I use my phone for navigation or charge my e-cigarette, I make sure the voltage is stable because if it's too high or too low, it could damage the device or blow a fuse. Once, my socket stopped working, and after testing, I found abnormal voltage—turned out the battery was old and needed replacement. That's why regular checks on the vehicle's electrical system are crucial to avoid the embarrassment of sudden power failure on the road. I always carry a portable voltmeter to take a quick reading—it’s hassle-free and keeps me safe.
