Why does the cigarette lighter feel warm but not turn red?
2 Answers
The cigarette lighter may feel warm but not turn red due to it being loose; simply bend the cigarette lighter clip inward to fix it. The cigarette lighter is a device in a car. Traditionally, the cigarette lighter draws power from the car's electrical system to heat a metal heating element or wire, providing a flame source for lighting cigarettes. With the evolution of automobiles and changing user needs, the cigarette lighter socket can now often be equipped with a car inverter to charge mobile electronic devices, among other uses. Regularly clean the battery: During daily use of the vehicle, it's important to monitor the battery's condition. Over time, the battery can become covered with dust, powder, oil stains, etc. To ensure the battery functions properly, promptly clean dirt from the battery's panel and the terminals to extend its service life. Avoid prolonged parking: If the vehicle is left unused for an extended period, the battery will discharge on its own. Therefore, even if the car is not in regular use, it's advisable to start it once a week and take it for a short drive to keep the battery fully charged. Regular inspections: The typical lifespan of a car battery is 3-4 years. For high-end models with numerous electronic systems, the battery's lifespan may be shorter. Regular checks on the battery's charge retention can help maintain it in optimal working condition.
The cigarette lighter is a bit hot but not glowing red, which I've encountered several times in the car. It might be due to aging or poor contact of the internal heating wire inside the cigarette lighter. Normally, it should heat up until glowing red to ignite things. First, check if the car's voltage system is stable, such as insufficient battery voltage possibly causing inadequate heating. You can use a multimeter to measure whether the output voltage is normal. Carbon buildup on the contact points of the cigarette lighter socket can also affect its performance. Sometimes dust gets stuck, so I gently pull it out to clean the contacts and try again. Another possibility is a loose or blown fuse. Look for the corresponding small label in the fuse box and try replacing it with a new one. For safety, avoid prolonged testing to prevent overheating. Regular maintenance includes periodically cleaning the cigarette lighter part to prevent issues. Similar problems can also occur with the car's charging port, which tends to malfunction after prolonged use. Developing a habit of checking electrical equipment can save a lot of trouble.