What to do if the Passat cigarette lighter doesn't pop up after being pressed?
2 Answers
The Passat cigarette lighter that doesn't pop up after being pressed may require replacing the cigarette lighter retaining spring or the cigarette lighter fuse. The cigarette lighter is located below the center console, and you can see it by opening the cover. The current of the cigarette lighter fuse is 20A, and a blown fuse will result in the cigarette lighter losing power. The cigarette lighter automatically heats up after being pressed, and it will pop out automatically after 5 to 8 seconds when the heating is complete, at which point it can be used to light a cigarette. The steps for removing and installing the cigarette lighter are as follows: 1. Unscrew the shell: Some car cigarette lighter sockets have a screwed-on shell at the back, which can be unscrewed by turning it counterclockwise and then screwed back on by turning it clockwise. 2. Remove screws: Some car cigarette lighter sockets are fixed with screws at the back, and you can remove them by using a wrench to unscrew them, then screw them back on to reinstall. 3. Remove the panel: Remove the gear shift lever panel, which is held by plastic clips. You can pry one side up by hand or with a flathead screwdriver to remove the entire panel. 4. Remove panel screws: After removing the gear shift lever panel, the cigarette lighter panel door will automatically open, revealing two black screws that can be removed using an M4 hex wrench. 5. Remove the panel box: Pull the cigarette lighter plastic panel box out by hand. When it is pulled out about 10 cm, disconnect the connecting wires first, and only then can the entire box be pulled out. 6. Operate the inner and outer rings: The cigarette lighter consists of an outer ring and an inner ring. Press the inner ring in when using it, and it will automatically pop back to its original position when it reaches a certain temperature. At this point, you can pull it out by holding the outer ring. 7. Finally, replace the cigarette lighter.
As a car enthusiast, I've played around with many cars, and when the cigarette lighter won't pop out, it's usually due to a stuck spring or dust buildup inside. Try turning off the power first, then use a small hook to gently pry it open and clean any rust or wipe the contacts with alcohol. Avoid pulling hard to prevent damaging the circuit. I once helped a friend's car with the same issue and found the lighter socket was loose—tightening it solved the problem. If it still won't pop out, the spring might be broken, and you'll need to visit a 4S shop for a replacement. During regular maintenance, avoid letting foreign objects like ash or small parts enter the lighter socket, as this can prevent 90% of malfunctions. Though it may seem minor while driving, a short circuit could potentially cause a fire, so fixing it promptly ensures peace of mind.
