Imagine you’re on a road trip, cruising down the highway, and suddenly your cigarette lighter stops working. It’s a minor inconvenience, but it can be frustrating, especially if you rely on it to charge your phone or power other devices. Fortunately, replacing a cigarette lighter car is a relatively simple task that can be done in a few minutes with the right tools and a little bit of know-how. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to replace a cigarette lighter car, so you can get back on the road and enjoy your drive.
Before you start, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a new cigarette lighter element, which you can purchase at most auto parts stores. You’ll also need a small screwdriver or a pair of needle-nose pliers. Once you have your tools and materials, you’re ready to begin the replacement process. Start by removing the old cigarette lighter element. To do this, gently pry it out of the socket using the screwdriver or pliers. Be careful not to damage the socket, as this could cause electrical problems. Once the old element is removed, insert the new element into the socket. Make sure it’s firmly in place and then test it out by plugging in a device.
If the new cigarette lighter element is working properly, you’re all finished! If it’s not working, there may be a problem with the socket. Inspect the socket for any damage, and if you find any, you may need to replace it. Replacing a cigarette lighter socket is a bit more involved than replacing the element, but it’s still a relatively simple task that can be done with the right tools and a little bit of experience. Once you’ve replaced the socket, test the cigarette lighter again to make sure it’s working properly. If it is, you can now enjoy your road trip without having to worry about a dead cigarette lighter!
Essential Tools and Materials
Flashlight
Inspecting the cigarette lighter’s socket and its surroundings can be challenging due to limited visibility. A flashlight helps illuminate the area, providing a clear view of the components. Look for a flashlight with a compact size and focused beam to access the socket efficiently.
Needle-nose Pliers
Needle-nose pliers are essential for manipulating small components and wires in the cigarette lighter’s socket. Their precision tips can securely grasp and remove fuses and other delicate parts. Choose a pair with insulated handles to avoid electrical shock.
Screwdriver
A screwdriver is necessary for unscrewing the retaining screw or screws that hold the cigarette lighter assembly in place. Determine the type of screw used (usually a Phillips or flathead) and select the appropriate screwdriver. Ensuring the screwdriver fits snugly prevents stripping the screw’s head.
Additional Materials:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cigarette Lighter Socket Tester | Checks the functionality of the socket before replacing components |
| Electrical Tape | Insulate and secure electrical connections |
| Replacement Fuse | Replace blown fuses that may be causing the cigarette lighter to malfunction |
Safety Precautions
Before attempting to replace your cigarette lighter car, it is important to take some safety precautions to avoid any potential hazards:
- Disconnect the battery: This will prevent any electrical shocks or sparks that could cause a fire. To disconnect the battery, simply use a wrench to loosen the negative terminal (usually marked with a “-” sign) and pull it off the battery.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses: This will protect your hands and eyes from any sharp edges or debris that may be present when working on your car.
- Do not smoke or work near open flames: This is especially important when working on your car’s electrical system, as any sparks could easily ignite a fire.
Once you have taken these safety precautions, you can begin the process of replacing your cigarette lighter car.
Locating and Accessing the Cigarette Lighter Assembly
The cigarette lighter assembly in a car is typically located in the center console or dashboard. It consists of the lighter element itself, a power source, and a switch or button to activate it. Accessing the assembly requires removing the surrounding trim or panel to expose the wiring and connections.
Step 1: Identifying the Correct Location
Check the car’s owner’s manual or inspect the center console and dashboard for the cigarette lighter. It’s usually marked with a symbol resembling a cigarette or lighter. Alternatively, consult online forums or YouTube videos specific to your car model.
Step 2: Removing the Trim or Panel
Use a plastic trim removal tool or a flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the trim or panel covering the cigarette lighter. Most trims have clips that hold them in place, so be careful not to damage any plastics. Some panels may require the removal of screws or bolts.
Step 3: Exposing the Wiring and Connections
Once the trim or panel is removed, you’ll have access to the cigarette lighter assembly. Disconnect the wiring harness by pressing down on the release tabs and pulling the connector free. Unplug the power cable and unscrew the mounting bolts or screws to remove the assembly.
| Part | Description |
|---|---|
| Wiring harness | Connects the lighter to the car’s electrical system |
| Power cable | Supplies electricity to the lighter element |
| Mounting bolts or screws | Holds the assembly in place |
Disconnecting the Existing Cigarette Lighter
To replace a car cigarette lighter, you must first disconnect the existing one. Here’s how to do it:
1. Safety Precautions
Before you begin, ensure the vehicle is parked in a well-ventilated area. Disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery to prevent any electrical accidents.
2. Locate the Cigarette Lighter
Locate the cigarette lighter in your dashboard or center console. Pull it straight out to remove it completely.
3. Detach the Electrical Connector
Behind the cigarette lighter, you will find an electrical connector. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the connector off the lighter. Be careful not to damage the wires.
4. Removing Remaining Wiring
For some vehicles, the cigarette lighter may have additional wiring connected to it, such as for a power outlet or USB port. If so, follow these steps:
| Wiring Type | Disconnection Method |
| Bullet Connectors | Use a small screwdriver to depress the tab on the connector and pull the wires apart. |
| Crimp Connectors | Use wire cutters to cut the crimp connectors and separate the wires. |
| Soldered Wires | Use a soldering iron to melt the solder and separate the wires. Be sure to wear safety glasses. |
Installing the New Cigarette Lighter
First, remove the old cigarette lighter by prying it out with a flathead screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the dashboard or surrounding area.
Insert the new cigarette lighter into the hole, making sure it is properly aligned.
Secure the cigarette lighter with the mounting nut or screws.
Connect the cigarette lighter to the electrical harness. The harness typically has color-coded wires, with red indicating positive (+) and black indicating negative (-).
Test the cigarette lighter to ensure it is working properly. Insert a cigarette or other 12-volt device and press the button. If the device does not light or power up, check the connections and electrical system.
Additional Notes:
| Tip | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Use a voltmeter to ensure the electrical system is providing sufficient voltage. | This will help troubleshoot any issues with power supply. |
| Apply dielectric grease to the electrical connections. | This will help prevent corrosion and ensure reliable performance. |
| Secure the mounting nut or screws tightly, but avoid overtightening. | Overtightening can damage the cigarette lighter or dashboard. |
| If you encounter any difficulties or the cigarette lighter does not work properly after installation, consult a qualified mechanic or electrician. | Electrical repairs can be complex and require specialized knowledge. |
Reconnecting Wires and Terminal
Once the lighter socket is removed, you’ll need to reconnect the wires to the new socket. Wires are usually color-coded, with black indicating ground, red indicating 12-volt power, and yellow indicating illumination. Here’s a step-by-step guide to reconnecting the wires:
1. Identify the Wires
Refer to the table below for color-coding and terminal connections.
| Wire Color | Terminal Connection |
|---|---|
| Black | Ground |
| Red | 12-volt Power |
| Yellow (optional) | Illumination |
2. Strip the Wires
Use wire strippers to remove about 1/2 inch of insulation from the ends of each wire.
3. Connect the Ground Wire
Slide the bare end of the black wire over the grounding terminal on the new lighter socket and tighten the screw with a screwdriver.
4. Connect the Power Wire
Connect the bare end of the red wire to the power terminal on the new lighter socket and tighten the screw.
5. Connect the Illumination Wire (Optional)
If your lighter socket has an illumination light, connect the bare end of the yellow wire to the illumination terminal and tighten the screw. This step is optional.
6. Secure the Wires
Once all the wires are connected, use electrical tape or wire nuts to secure them and prevent them from short-circuiting. Ensure the connections are snug, but avoid overtightening the screws, which could damage the terminals.
Testing the New Cigarette Lighter
Once you’ve replaced the cigarette lighter, it’s crucial to test it to ensure it’s working properly. Follow these steps to test the new lighter:
1. Insert the Lighter
Insert the new cigarette lighter into the receptacle in the car.
2. Press the Button
Press the button on the lighter to activate the heating element.
3. Check for Glow
Observe the tip of the lighter. It should begin to glow red as the heating element heats up.
4. Verify Functionality
If the tip glows red, it indicates that the lighter is functioning correctly and is ready to use.
5. Test with a Cigarette
To test the lighter’s heating capability, carefully insert a cigarette into the lighter and press the button.
6. Observe Ignition
Observe the tip of the cigarette. It should ignite within a few seconds, indicating that the lighter is generating sufficient heat.
7. Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the lighter fails to heat up or ignite a cigarette, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| No glow | Check the electrical connection between the lighter and the car’s battery. |
| Glow but no ignition | Replace the heating element inside the lighter. |
| Intermittent heating | Clean the contacts on the lighter and the receptacle in the car. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Loose Connection
A loose connection can cause the cigarette lighter to not work. Check the connection between the cigarette lighter and the power source. Make sure the connection is tight and secure. If the connection is loose, tighten it and try using the cigarette lighter again.
Blown Fuse
A blown fuse can also cause the cigarette lighter to not work. Locate the fuse that is responsible for the cigarette lighter and check if it is blown. If the fuse is blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
Damaged Element
The heating element in the cigarette lighter can become damaged over time. If the heating element is damaged, the cigarette lighter will not be able to heat up. Replace the damaged heating element with a new one.
Dirty Contacts
The contacts in the cigarette lighter can become dirty over time. Dirty contacts can prevent the cigarette lighter from making a good connection with the power source. Clean the contacts with a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol. After cleaning the contacts, try using the cigarette lighter again.
Faulty Switch
The switch in the cigarette lighter can become faulty over time. If the switch is faulty, the cigarette lighter will not be able to turn on. Replace the faulty switch with a new one.
Bad Wiring
The wiring to the cigarette lighter can become damaged over time. Damaged wiring can prevent the cigarette lighter from getting power. Inspect the wiring to the cigarette lighter for any damage. If the wiring is damaged, repair or replace the damaged wiring.
Faulty Socket
The socket in the cigarette lighter can become faulty over time. If the socket is faulty, the cigarette lighter will not be able to make a good connection with the power source. Replace the faulty socket with a new one.
Other Issues
There may be other issues that can cause the cigarette lighter to not work. If you have tried all of the troubleshooting steps above and the cigarette lighter still does not work, you may need to take your vehicle to a mechanic for further diagnosis.
Final Inspection and Completion
9. Plug in a cigarette lighter and test
Once the lighter socket is installed, plug in a cigarette lighter to test its functionality. Ensure the lighter heats up and functions correctly. If it doesn’t, double-check all the connections to identify any potential issues. If further troubleshooting is required, consult the owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic.
| Fuse Rating | Description |
|---|---|
| 5 Amp | Standard fuse for most cars |
| 10 Amp | Heavy-duty fuse for high-power devices |
| 20 Amp | Fuse for aftermarket accessories such as inverters or air compressors |
10. Check the fuse
Ensure the fuse for the lighter socket is intact. Locate the fuse box, identify the fuse responsible for the socket, and inspect it for any damage. Replace the fuse if it’s blown to restore power to the socket.
11. Reinstall any trim or covers
Once the lighter socket is installed and tested, put back any trim or covers that were removed during the replacement process. Secure them tightly to ensure a proper fit and prevent rattles or loose connections.
How To Replace Cigarette Lighter Car
-
Gather necessary tools and parts.
- You’ll need a new cigarette lighter, a screwdriver, and maybe a pair of pliers.
-
Disconnect the battery.
- This is a safety precaution to prevent any electrical shocks.
-
Remove the old cigarette lighter.
- Use the screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the lighter in place. Then, pull the lighter out of the dash.
-
Install the new cigarette lighter.
- Insert the new lighter into the dash and tighten the screws.
-
Connect the battery.
- Reconnect the battery terminals and tighten them.
-
Test the new cigarette lighter.
- Insert a cigarette into the lighter and press the button to light it.
Maintenance Tips for Extending the Lifespan of the New Cigarette Lighter
-
Don’t overload the lighter.
- Only use the lighter to light cigarettes. Don’t use it to charge other devices or power other accessories.
-
Keep the lighter clean.
- Regularly clean the lighter with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may accumulate.
-
Don’t leave the lighter on.
- When you’re not using the lighter, turn it off to prevent it from overheating.
-
Avoid using the lighter in extreme temperatures.
- Extreme heat or cold can damage the lighter.
-
Inspect the lighter regularly.
- Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose wires. If you find any damage, replace the lighter immediately.
-
Replace the lighter fuse if necessary.
- The lighter fuse may blow if the lighter is overloaded or damaged. If the fuse blows, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
-
Have the lighter serviced by a qualified technician.
- If you’re having trouble with the lighter, have it serviced by a qualified technician.
-
Use a quality cigarette lighter.
- A quality cigarette lighter will last longer and be less likely to cause problems.
-
Don’t smoke in the car.
- Smoking in the car can damage the lighter and other interior components.
-
Here’s a table summarizing the maintenance tips:
| Maintenance Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Don’t overload the lighter | Only use the lighter to light cigarettes. |
| Keep the lighter clean | Regularly clean the lighter with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may accumulate. |
| Don’t leave the lighter on | When you’re not using the lighter, turn it off to prevent it from overheating. |
| Avoid using the lighter in extreme temperatures | Extreme heat or cold can damage the lighter. |
| Inspect the lighter regularly | Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or loose wires. If you find any damage, replace the lighter immediately. |
| Replace the lighter fuse if necessary | The lighter fuse may blow if the lighter is overloaded or damaged. If the fuse blows, replace it with a new one of the same amperage. |
| Have the lighter serviced by a qualified technician | If you’re having trouble with the lighter, have it serviced by a qualified technician. |
| Use a quality cigarette lighter | A quality cigarette lighter will last longer and be less likely to cause problems. |
| Don’t smoke in the car | Smoking in the car can damage the lighter and other interior components. |
How to Replace a Cigarette Lighter in Your Car
A cigarette lighter is a small device that is used to light cigarettes. It is typically located in the dashboard or center console of a car. Over time, cigarette lighters can become damaged or worn out, and they may need to be replaced. Replacing a cigarette lighter is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes.
To replace a cigarette lighter, you will need the following tools:
- A Phillips head screwdriver
- A flathead screwdriver
- A new cigarette lighter
Once you have gathered your tools, you can follow these steps to replace the cigarette lighter:
1.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal. This will prevent you from getting shocked while you are working on the electrical system.
2.
Locate the cigarette lighter. It is typically located in the dashboard or center console.
3.
Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the cigarette lighter in place.
4.
Pull the cigarette lighter out of the dashboard or center console.
5.
Disconnect the electrical connector from the back of the cigarette lighter.
6.
Insert the new cigarette lighter into the dashboard or center console.
7.
Connect the electrical connector to the back of the cigarette lighter.
8.
Screw the cigarette lighter into place using the Phillips head screwdriver.
9.
Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
People Also Ask About How To Replace Cigarette Lighter Car
How do you remove a cigarette lighter from the socket?
To remove a cigarette lighter from the socket, you can use a pair of pliers or a flathead screwdriver. Insert the pliers or screwdriver into the slot on the side of the lighter and gently pry it out of the socket.
How do you fix a cigarette lighter that won’t heat up?
If your cigarette lighter is not heating up, there are a few things that you can check. First, make sure that the lighter is properly connected to the electrical system. If it is, then you can try replacing the heating element. To do this, remove the screws that hold the lighter in place and pull it out of the dashboard or center console. Then, disconnect the electrical connector and remove the heating element. Replace the heating element with a new one and reassemble the lighter.
How do you clean a cigarette lighter?
To clean a cigarette lighter, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Gently wipe down the contacts and the heating element. Be careful not to damage the heating element.
