If your cigarette lighter isn’t working, it could be due to a blown fuse. Checking the fuse is a simple and quick way to determine if this is the problem. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to check a cigarette lighter fuse, so you can get your lighter working again in no time.
First, you need to locate the fuse box. This is typically located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Once you’ve found the fuse box, open it and locate the fuse that is responsible for the cigarette lighter. The fuse will be labeled, so it should be easy to find. Once you’ve found the fuse, remove it and inspect it. If the fuse is blown, you’ll see a break in the metal wire inside the fuse. If the fuse is blown, you’ll need to replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
Finally, reinsert the new fuse into the fuse box and close the fuse box. Try the cigarette lighter again. The cigarette lighter should be working again, but if it isn’t, you should consult a qualified mechanic. Replacing a fuse is a relatively simple task, but if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to leave it to a professional.
Locate the Fuse Box
The fuse box is typically located under the dashboard, either on the driver’s or passenger’s side. To access it, you will need to open the fuse box cover. Sometimes, the fuse box cover is located inside the glove compartment or under the hood. If you are still unable to locate the fuse box, consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Once you have located the fuse box, you will need to identify the fuse that corresponds to the cigarette lighter. This information is usually printed on the fuse box cover or in the owner’s manual. If you cannot find the fuse labeled “cigarette lighter,” look for a fuse that is labeled “accessory” or “power outlet.”
| Fuse type | Amperage |
|---|---|
| Standard fuse | 10-15 amps |
| Mini fuse | 5-7.5 amps |
Remove the Fuse
To remove the fuse, you’ll need to locate the fuse box. This is typically located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Once you’ve found the fuse box, open it up and locate the cigarette lighter fuse. Usually, it is labeled as “CIG” or “12V”.
Once you’ve found the fuse, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull it straight out of the fuse box. Be careful not to bend or damage the fuse when you do this.
Here’s a more detailed step-by-step guide for removing the cigarette lighter fuse:
1. Locate the fuse box
The fuse box is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side, but it can also be in the engine compartment or the trunk. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to find the exact location of the fuse box.
2. Open the fuse box
The fuse box will have a cover that can be opened by hand or with a tool. Be careful not to damage the cover when you open it.
3. Find the cigarette lighter fuse
Once you have the fuse box open, you’ll need to find the cigarette lighter fuse. The fuse will be labeled with the word “CIG” or “12V.” If you can’t find the cigarette lighter fuse, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for help.
4. Remove the fuse
Once you’ve found the cigarette lighter fuse, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to pull it straight out of the fuse box. Be careful not to bend or damage the fuse when you do this.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for removing the cigarette lighter fuse:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the fuse box. |
| 2 | Open the fuse box. |
| 3 | Find the cigarette lighter fuse. |
| 4 | Remove the fuse. |
Check the Fuse for Blown Condition
To check the fuse for a blown condition, you will need a multimeter. A multimeter is a device that measures electrical current, voltage, and resistance. You can purchase a multimeter at most hardware stores or online. Once you have a multimeter, follow these steps to check the fuse:
Step 1: Set the multimeter to the ohms setting.
The ohms setting is typically denoted by the Greek letter omega (Ω). If you cannot find the ohms setting, consult the multimeter’s manual.
Step 2: Connect the multimeter probes to the fuse.
One probe should be connected to each end of the fuse. If the fuse is blown, the multimeter will display an infinite resistance reading (OL). If the fuse is not blown, the multimeter will display a resistance reading of less than infinity.
Step 3: Replace the fuse if it is blown.
If the fuse is blown, you will need to replace it with a new one of the same amperage. You can purchase fuses at most hardware stores or online. Once you have replaced the fuse, reassemble the cigarette lighter and test it to make sure it is working properly.
Here is a table summarizing the steps on how to check a fuse for a blown condition:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Set the multimeter to the ohms setting. |
| 2 | Connect the multimeter probes to the fuse. |
| 3 | Replace the fuse if it is blown. |
Identify the Fuse Box
The location of the fuse box can vary depending on the vehicle make and model. In most cases, it is located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the exact location.
Locate the Cigarette Lighter Fuse
Once you have identified the fuse box, look for the fuse labeled “Cigarette Lighter” or “Power Outlet.” Typically, the fuses are color-coded, with red indicating a 10-amp fuse. Consult the fuse diagram provided in the fuse box cover or your owner’s manual for confirmation.
Inspect the Fuse
Carefully examine the fuse for any signs of damage. A blown fuse will have a broken filament, which can be easily noticed when held up to a light source. If the fuse appears intact, skip to the next step.
Replace the Fuse
If the fuse is blown, it needs to be replaced with a new one of the same amperage. Locate a new fuse of the appropriate amperage in the fuse box or purchase one from an auto parts store. Use the fuse puller provided in the fuse box to remove the old fuse and insert the new one.
Test the Fuse with a Multimeter (Optional)
If you have a multimeter, you can also test the fuse for continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and place the probes on each end of the fuse. If the multimeter displays a low resistance reading (usually below 1 ohm), the fuse is good. If the reading is infinite, the fuse is blown.
Here’s a table summarizing the test results:
| Test Result | Fuse Status |
|---|---|
| Low resistance reading | Good |
| Infinite resistance reading | Blown |
Once you have tested or replaced the fuse, turn on the vehicle and check if the cigarette lighter or power outlet is working properly.
Replace the Fuse
Firstly, ensure that the vehicle is parked with the engine off and the parking brake engaged. Next, locate the fuse box. This is usually found under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Open the fuse box cover and locate the fuse for the cigarette lighter. This will be labeled with a symbol or надпись “CIG” or “POWER OUTLET”.
Once you have found the fuse, check it for damage. If it is blown, you will need to replace it with a new one. Use a fuse puller to remove the blown fuse and insert a new one of the same amperage. Close the fuse box cover and turn the ignition on. The cigarette lighter should now be working again.
Here is a step-by-step guide to replacing the fuse:
- Park the vehicle in a safe location and turn off the engine.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Locate the fuse box. This is usually found under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Open the fuse box cover.
- Locate the fuse for the cigarette lighter. This will be labeled with a symbol or надпись “CIG” or “POWER OUTLET”.
- Check the fuse for damage. If it is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
Fuse Size Fuse Type 10 amps Mini blade fuse 15 amps Mini blade fuse 20 amps Mini blade fuse - Close the fuse box cover.
- Turn the ignition on.
- The cigarette lighter should now be working again.
If the cigarette lighter is still not working after replacing the fuse, there may be another problem. This could be a faulty cigarette lighter socket, a wiring issue, or a problem with the fuse box itself. In this case, you will need to take the vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis and repair.
Reset the Fuse Box
If you have checked all of the fuses and they are all intact, the next step is to reset the fuse box. This will clear any tripped fuses and restore power to the cigarette lighter.
To reset the fuse box, follow these steps:
- Locate the fuse box. It is usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Open the fuse box cover.
- Locate the fuse for the cigarette lighter. It will be labeled “CIGAR” or “POWER OUTLET”.
- Remove the fuse and wait 10 seconds.
- Reinstall the fuse.
- Close the fuse box cover.
- Try the cigarette lighter again.
Inspect the Wiring
Examine the wiring connecting the cigarette lighter to the fuse box. Look for any visible signs of damage, such as broken wires, loose connections, or burn marks. If you notice any issues, it’s recommended to have them repaired or replaced by a qualified auto electrician.
Check the Fuse
- Locate the fuse box in your vehicle, usually situated under the dashboard, under the hood, or in the trunk.
- Identify the fuse responsible for the cigarette lighter. Refer to the owner’s manual or the fuse box diagram.
- Remove the fuse using a pair of needle-nose pliers or a fuse puller.
- Inspect the fuse for damage. If the metal filament inside the fuse is broken or blown, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
Replace the Fuse
If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage. Never use a fuse with a higher amperage rating, as this can lead to electrical problems or damage. Once the new fuse is installed, insert it fully into the fuse socket.
After replacing the fuse, test the cigarette lighter to ensure it is working properly. If the problem persists, it’s advisable to consult a professional auto electrician for further troubleshooting and repairs.
Check the Socket
If the fuse is not blown and the cigarette lighter still doesn’t work, the socket itself may be faulty. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the positive and negative terminals of the socket. If there is no continuity, the socket may need to be replaced.
Other Potential Causes
Other potential causes of a non-functioning cigarette lighter include:
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Faulty wiring harness | Repair or replace the wiring harness. |
| Loose ground connection | Tighten the ground connection. |
| Defective cigarette lighter | Replace the cigarette lighter. |
If you are unable to diagnose or resolve the issue on your own, seek assistance from a qualified auto electrician.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Electrical Problem
The most common cause of a cigarette lighter fuse blowing is an electrical problem. This could be caused by a short circuit, a faulty wire, or a blown fuse. To troubleshoot this issue, you will need to check the wiring and fuses.
Blown Fuse
A blown fuse is the most likely cause of a cigarette lighter not working. To check the fuse, you will need to locate the fuse box and find the fuse for the cigarette lighter. Once you have found the fuse, you can check it by looking at the filament inside the fuse. If the filament is broken, then the fuse is blown and will need to be replaced.
Faulty Wire
A faulty wire can also cause the cigarette lighter to stop working. To check the wire, you will need to inspect the wire for any damage. If the wire is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Short Circuit
A short circuit can also cause the cigarette lighter to stop working. To check for a short circuit, you will need to use a multimeter to test the continuity of the circuit.
Malfunctioning Lighter Element
The lighter element is the part of the cigarette lighter that actually ignites the cigarette. If the lighter element is malfunctioning, it will not be able to ignite the cigarette. To test the lighter element, you will need to remove the cigarette lighter from the car and hold it upside down. If the lighter element is working properly, it will produce a spark when you press the button.
Faulty Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the part of the car that turns on the power to the cigarette lighter. If the ignition switch is faulty, it will not be able to turn on the power to the cigarette lighter. To test the ignition switch, you will need to use a multimeter to test the continuity of the circuit.
Loose Connections
Loose connections can also cause the cigarette lighter to stop working. To check for loose connections, you will need to inspect the connections at the cigarette lighter and the fuse box.
Dirty Contacts
Dirty contacts can also cause the cigarette lighter to stop working. To clean the contacts, you will need to use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Faulty Cigarette Lighter Assembly
If all else fails, the problem may be with the cigarette lighter assembly itself. In this case, you will need to replace the entire assembly.
| Component | How to Test |
|---|---|
| Fuse | Look for a broken filament |
| Wire | Inspect for damage |
| Short circuit | Use a multimeter to test continuity |
| Lighter element | Remove lighter and hold upside down. Press button to check for spark |
| Ignition switch | Use a multimeter to test continuity |
| Loose connections | Inspect connections at lighter and fuse box |
| Dirty contacts | Clean contacts with cotton swab and rubbing alcohol |
Safety Precautions
Before attempting to check the cigarette lighter fuse, it is crucial to take the following safety precautions:
- Unplug the Battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of your car’s battery to eliminate any risk of electrical shock.
- Use Proper Tools: Always utilize insulated tools when working with electrical components to prevent accidental contact with live wires.
- Check for Damage: Carefully inspect the fuse box for any signs of damage, such as burnt or melted components.
- Wear Protective Gear: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any potential sparks or flying debris.
- Work in a Safe Location: Perform this task in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials and liquids.
- Avoid Smoking: Refrain from smoking or lighting any flames near the fuse box or electrical components.
- Do Not Touch Exposed Wires: Under no circumstances should you touch any exposed wires or electrical connections.
- Handle Fuses with Care: Fuses are sensitive components, so always handle them gently to prevent damage.
- Reconnect Battery Safely: After completing the repair, carefully reconnect the negative terminal of the battery, ensuring its proper connection.
- Test the Circuit: Once the battery is reconnected, use a multimeter or test light to ensure the repaired circuit is functioning correctly.
How to Check a Cigarette Lighter Fuse
A cigarette lighter fuse is a small electrical device that protects the lighter from damage in the event of a short circuit. If the fuse blows, the lighter will not work. Checking the fuse is a simple process that can be done in a few minutes.
- Locate the fuse. The fuse is usually located in the base of the lighter, near the positive terminal. It will be a small, cylindrical device with two metal terminals.
- Remove the fuse. Use a pair of pliers to gently pull the fuse out of its socket. Be careful not to touch the metal terminals.
- Inspect the fuse. The fuse will be made of glass or ceramic. If the fuse is blown, you will see a thin wire inside the fuse that has melted. If the fuse is not blown, the wire will be intact.
- Replace the fuse. If the fuse is blown, you will need to replace it with a new one. The new fuse should be the same amperage as the old fuse.
- Reinstall the fuse. Push the new fuse into the socket until it clicks into place.
- Test the lighter. Plug the lighter into a power outlet and press the button. The lighter should now work.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my cigarette lighter fuse is blown?
If your cigarette lighter does not work, the fuse may be blown. You can check the fuse by following the steps outlined above.
Where can I find a replacement fuse for my cigarette lighter?
Replacement fuses for cigarette lighters can be found at most hardware stores and auto parts stores.
How do I prevent my cigarette lighter fuse from blowing?
The best way to prevent your cigarette lighter fuse from blowing is to avoid overloading the lighter. Do not plug multiple devices into the lighter at the same time, and do not use the lighter to power high-wattage appliances.
