The cigar lighter is provided as a convenience for use in lighting cigars and cigarettes, and for occasional use as a power outlet. The intent is to provide a lighter that is usable with as little distraction as possible.

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.

This device is similar in appearance to the cigar lighter receptacle, but without the capability of heating a cigar element and does not have over-temperature provisions. The power outlet does not have an illumination ring surrounding the receptacle. The power outlet's sole purpose is providing power for aftermarket devices.

Operation

Important: 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.

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.

Lighter Assembly

A complete system of components, including an element assembly, a receptacle, and a mounting ring.

Element Assembly

An assembly containing a heating element and knob, a shield or ash guard. Commonly referred to as the popout or knob/element assembly.

Receptacle Assembly

That portion of the system constituting the element well, the electrical connections, the over-temperature device, and thermal release mechanism. This device receives, heats, and stores the element when not in use. Alternatively called the housing or switch base.

Mounting Ring

Serves to position and mount the receptacle. This mounting ring contains a light source. Illumination is normally powered from the dimmable instrument panel light circuit. The dimming circuit is controlled through the body control module (BCM).

Power Outlet Receptacle

This device is similar in appearance to the lighter receptacle but without thermal release or thermal over-temperature provisions. It is provided for the sole purpose of connecting aftermarket devices to the vehicle electrical system.