You’ll want to make sure the electronics inside the charger, lighter, or other 12-volt accessory items aren’t damaged, and the springs inside the plug you insert into the socket aren’t worn out. Lastly, you may be dealing with an obstruction in the socket. Obstruction is a common issue with vertical cigarette lighters.
If you determine that what you’re plugging in isn’t the problem, check to see if the fuse for the car’s power outlet has blown. A dead fuse for that circuit is the most likely cause, either because of age or because what was previously plugged in was faulty or drew too much current.
Depending on your make and model vehicle, the cigarette lighter—or accessory outlet—fuse may be labeled differently, but many car’s designate the lighter fuse as “LTR”, short for lighter, and you can find it in the fuse box under the hood.
Why is my cigarette lighter not working? – Related Questions
How can you tell if a cigarette lighter fuse is blown?
Check for Power
The easiest is to simply plug in the cigarette lighter if you have it. If the lighter heats up and pops out, then the socket has power. You can also use a test light to check for power, if you have one, or examine the fuse panel to see if the cigarette lighter fuse is blown.
How much does it cost to fix a car cigarette lighter?
The cost to fix a cigarette lighter in a car is between $50 and $100, depending on your vehicle. In most cases, it’s a simple problem with the socket or the fuse. It may be a wiring issue, which could be a little trickier (and more costly) to repair.
How do you change a fuse in a cigarette lighter?
How can you tell if a 12v fuse is blown?
How do you tell if a fuse is blown?
Remove the fuse from its holder. In some cases you may need a small screwdriver to unscrew the fuse holder cap. Look at the fuse wire. If there is a visible gap in the wire or a dark or metallic smear inside the glass then the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
What fuse do I need to fix a cigarette lighter in a car?
Some panels include several spare fuses. If this is the case, pick out a spare that is an exact match in size, color, and labeling—cigarette lighters, for example, usually use 20 amp fuses that have “20A” printed on top.
Why is my car charger port not working?
A failure in the functioning of your car’s USB port can usually be traced back to a shortcoming in the hardware or software. Despite how powerful and useful they are, they’re more prone to particles getting inside because they’re open. As such, food, dust, and other debris can make their way into the port.
How can I charge my phone in my car without a cigarette lighter?
However, when you choose to charge your phone with the 12V power socket, you’re going to need an adapter plug. Much like you need an adapter for your USB cord to charge your phone in a wall socket, you’ll need a car charger adapter to plus your phone’s USB cord into the 12V power socket.
Can you replace car fuses yourself?
Remove and Replace the Fuse
Carefully remove the broken or blown fuse from its slot. You can use your fingers to do this but don’t apply too much pressure. You don’t want to break the fuse and cut yourself. Head to your local auto parts store to purchase the replacement fuse (if you haven’t already).
How much does it cost to get fuses replaced in a car?
Most fuses only cost $10 to $20, but you’ll have to pay additional labor fees to have your fuse replaced by a professional. Depending on the shop you go to, labor can cost between $65 and $100 per hour, so call ahead to get a repair estimate.
Can you replace a car fuse without disconnecting the battery?
Before you start working on any automotive project, it’s important that you turn off the engine and disconnect the battery, especially before doing any electrical work. Any misstep with automotive wiring while the battery is hooked up could cause further damage and potentially give you an unpleasant zap.
Can you pull fuses by hand?
You can remove the blown fuse using your hand. Or use a car fuse removal tool like a car fuse puller or needle-nose plier to remove it. Use a multimeter to test a fuse without removing it from the box. Ensure that the replacement fuse has the same amperage as the removed one.
What device can be used instead of a fuse?
MCB (Miniature circuit breaker) are used in the circuits instead of fuse.
What can I use instead of a fuse puller?
Use pliers if you don’t have a fuse puller.
What tool removes fuses?
A fuse puller is a tool for removing fuses.
Can I use tweezers to remove a fuse from a car?
Use a fuse puller, tweezers or needle-nose pliers to pull the fuse. Examine the fuse to see if it is blown. The metal wire inside the clear plastic section will be severed if the fuse is no good. Make sure to replace the fuse with one that matches the same amperage.
Can you pull a fuse out with pliers?
Use the ABN Relay and Fuse Puller Pliers to quickly remove electrical relays and fuses that are closely set together or set in awkward to reach spaces.