Will a Lighter Explosion in the Car Cause a Fire?

[DiBennett]

Leaving a lighter in the car can cause an explosion. Here are the details: 1. Reason: Lighters contain filled gases. Placing a lighter on the dashboard or instrument panel exposes it to direct sunlight. After prolonged exposure, the gas inside the lighter will continuously expand. Once it reaches a critical point, an explosion can occur, causing severe damage to the vehicle. 2. Precautions: During summer, avoid leaving lighters in the car as it poses significant safety risks. The main component of a standard lighter is liquid butane. High concentrations of butane can explode at room temperatures of 20 degrees Celsius. If the outdoor temperature exceeds 30 degrees Celsius, the car's interior can reach 60-70 degrees Celsius after being exposed to the sun, making lighters highly prone to causing explosions. If a lighter self-detonates due to sun exposure, it is considered human-caused damage, and insurance companies will not provide compensation.