Most car lighters are pretty easy to fix. The first thing you need to do is identify the problem. Is the lighter not working at all? Or is it only working sometimes? Or is the plug hot to the touch?
If the lighter is not working at all the first thing to check is the fuse. Many times a blown fuse is the reason the lighter isn’t working. To check the fuse find the fuse box in your car and open it up. Locate the fuse for the car lighter and see if it is blown. If it is replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
If the lighter is only working sometimes the problem is probably with the socket. Over time the socket can become corroded which prevents the lighter from making a good connection. To clean the socket first remove the lighter. Then use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the socket. Be sure to get rid of all the corrosion. If the socket is still not working after you’ve cleaned it you may need to replace it.
If the plug is hot to the touch the problem is probably with the heating element. The heating element can become warped over time which prevents it from heating up properly. To replace the heating element first remove the lighter. Then unscrew the element and screw in a new one.
These are the most common problems with car lighters and how to fix them. If you have any other questions feel free to ask your mechanic.
How do you fix a car lighter?
If the car lighter is not working first check the fuse.
If the fuse is blown replace it with a new one.
If the fuse is not blown then the problem may be with the car’s electrical system and a mechanic should be consulted.
How do you replace a car lighter?
To replace a car lighter first remove the old one by unscrewing it.
Then screw in the new one.
What could be wrong if the car lighter is not working?
If the fuse is blown then replace it with a new one.
If the fuse is not blown then the problem may be with the car’s electrical system and a mechanic should be consulted.
How do you check if the fuse is blown?
To check if the fuse is blown use a multimeter to test for continuity.
If there is no continuity then the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
How do you replace a blown fuse?
To replace a blown fuse first disconnect the power to the fuse box.
Then remove the old fuse and insert a new one of the same amperage.
What are some signs that the car’s electrical system may be the problem?
If the car lighter is not working and the fuse is not blown then the problem may be with the car’s electrical system.
Some signs that the electrical system may be the problem are dim headlights flickering dashboard lights and a clicking sound when the car is turned on.
What should you do if you think the problem is with the car’s electrical system?
If the problem is with the car’s electrical system then a mechanic should be consulted.
How can you prevent the car lighter from breaking?
To prevent the car lighter from breaking avoid using it for purposes other than lighting cigarettes.
How can you clean a car lighter?
To clean a car lighter remove it from the socket and use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the contacts.
Where is the fuse box located?
The fuse box is usually located under the hood near the battery.
What is the purpose of a fuse?
The purpose of a fuse is to protect the electrical system from overload.
How do you know if a fuse is blown?
You can tell if a fuse is blown by the condition of the metal strip inside.
If the strip is burned then the fuse is blown.
Can a fuse be repaired?
No a fuse cannot be repaired.
Once it is blown it must be replaced.
What happens if you put a higher amperage fuse than what is recommended?
Putting a higher amperage fuse than what is recommended can cause damage to the electrical system.
Where can you find fuses?
Fuses can be found at most auto parts stores.
