Has your cigarette lighter suddenly stopped working, leaving you stranded without a way to light your cigarettes? Before you resort to matches or lighters, it’s worth checking if the fuse has blown. A blown fuse is a common cause of cigarette lighter failure, and it’s a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself with a few simple tools.
First, locate the fuse box. This is usually under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Once you’ve found the fuse box, open it up and look for the fuse that is labeled “cigarette lighter.” If the fuse is blown, it will be black or brown in color, and the wire inside will be broken. To replace the fuse, simply pull it out and insert a new one of the same amperage.
Once you’ve replaced the fuse, try using your cigarette lighter again. If it still doesn’t work, there may be another problem with the lighter itself. You may need to have it repaired or replaced by a mechanic.
Removing the Blown Fuse
1. Locate the fuse box: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual or fuse box diagram to find the location of the fuse box. It’s typically located under the dashboard, behind the glove box, or in the engine compartment.
2. Identify the cigarette lighter fuse: The fuse should be labeled as “cigarette lighter” or abbreviated as “CIG.” You can also consult the fuse box diagram to confirm the fuse’s location.
3. Remove the blown fuse:
- Using Fuse Puller: Most fuse boxes come with a small plastic tool called a fuse puller. Insert the fuse puller’s prongs into the fuse holder and gently pull the blown fuse straight out.
- Using Pliers (if no Fuse Puller): If your vehicle doesn’t have a fuse puller, you can use a pair of insulated needle-nose pliers. Grip the sides of the fuse and gently pull it straight up. Be careful not to touch the metal terminals.
4. Inspect the fuse: Examine the blown fuse to confirm that it’s faulty. A blown fuse will typically have a broken or blackened filament inside the glass tube.
| Fuse Type | Appearance of Blown Fuse |
|---|---|
| Glass Tube Fuse | Broken or blackened filament visible |
| Blade Fuse | Thin metal strip visibly melted or broken |
How To Check Cigarette Lighter Fuse
Cigarette lighter fuses are small, inexpensive devices that protect your car’s electrical system from damage. If your cigarette lighter is not working, it is important to check the fuse to see if it has blown. Here are the steps on how to check a cigarette lighter fuse:
- Locate the fuse box. The fuse box is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Open the fuse box. There should be a diagram on the inside of the fuse box cover that shows the location of the cigarette lighter fuse.
- Remove the cigarette lighter fuse. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently pull the fuse out of its socket.
- Inspect the fuse. If the fuse is blown, the wire inside the fuse will be broken.
- Replace the fuse. If the fuse is blown, you will need to replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
People Also Ask About How To Check Cigarette Lighter Fuse
How do I know if my cigarette lighter fuse is blown?
If your cigarette lighter is not working, the fuse may be blown. You can check the fuse by removing it from its socket and inspecting it. If the wire inside the fuse is broken, the fuse is blown.
Where is the cigarette lighter fuse located?
The cigarette lighter fuse is typically located in the fuse box under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
What amperage fuse do I need for my cigarette lighter?
The amperage of the fuse you need for your cigarette lighter will depend on the make and model of your car. You can find the correct amperage by checking the owner’s manual or by looking at the diagram on the inside of the fuse box cover.
Can I use a higher amperage fuse in my cigarette lighter?
No, you should not use a higher amperage fuse in your cigarette lighter. Using a higher amperage fuse can damage your car’s electrical system.
