Where is the cigarette lighter fuse located in a BMW 320?
3 Answers
The cigarette lighter fuse in the BMW 3 Series is located in the fuse box on the center console. Here are some related details: Precautions: The cigarette lighter can only be pressed in when the engine is running or the ignition is turned on. Once the cigarette lighter pops out, it can be removed for lighting cigarettes. When handling a hot cigarette lighter, only hold it by the head to avoid the risk of burns. Always take the remote control with you when leaving the car to prevent potential hazards, such as children using the cigarette lighter and getting burned. Power specifications: When using a car inverter via the cigarette lighter, common power ratings for the inverter are 20W, 40W, 80W, 120W, and 150W. It is advisable not to exceed a maximum power of 120W for electrical devices.
As a car enthusiast, I often tinker with my BMW 320 and have located the cigarette lighter fuse several times. It's in the fuse box on the driver's side under the dashboard. You just need to open that small plastic cover near the driver's seat, and among the rows of fuses, look for one labeled 'cigarette lighter' or 'cig lighter' – usually a 15-amp yellow or red fuse. Blown fuses are typically caused by overloading with too many phone chargers or dash cams, so I recommend avoiding high-power devices to prevent this. When replacing, always remove the key first for safety, use small pliers to pull out the old fuse, and if it's blackened or broken, swap in an identical new one. The whole process takes just minutes, but be careful not to touch other wires to avoid sparks. The car manual also has detailed diagrams of the fuse locations, which are worth checking to ensure you're looking in the right spot.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I've repaired cigarette lighter issues before. The fuse for a BMW 320 is usually quite well hidden. Specifically, it's located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. You'll need to remove or open the plastic panel at the top of the glove compartment to access the fuse box cover. Once opened, look for the fuse labeled for the cigarette lighter, which is typically positioned in a corner of the box. Common causes of a blown fuse include short circuits or using high-power devices. When replacing it, it's advisable to purchase a new fuse with the matching amperage and insert it directly—avoid arbitrarily increasing the fuse rating. Safety first: always turn off the engine and power before working to prevent electric shock. For prevention, regularly checking the fuse condition and keeping the cigarette lighter socket clean are crucial. If problems persist frequently, seeking help from a professional mechanic is the quickest way to resolve the issue.
