Cigar Lighter: Operation

Battery voltage is applied at all times to the cigar lighter through a 20 amp (LIGHTER) fuse (located in the underhood fuse block). When the cigar lighter knob assembly is fully seated, it closes a switch which allows current to flow through the heating element. Current flows through the circuit to the winding inside the cigar lighter, to the lighter shell, to ground. Once the element reaches its heating temperature, a bi-metal latch releases and opens the switch, current stops flowing and the knob assembly will return to its original position.

Battery voltage is present at all times to the power outlet, through a 20 amp (AUX) fuse (located in the underhood fuse block). When the power plug is seated completely, it closes a switch allowing current to flow through the power plug. Current flows through the circuit to the plug inside the receptacle, to ground. Current will continue to flow until the plug is removed from the receptacle.

NOTE: Because battery voltage is present at all times, keep the tethered cap on the outlet when not in use. Do not leave the power plug in the receptacle. It continues to have power to it even if the vehicle is turned off.