How to Install - new 12v cigarette lighter

stevehat · Post by **stevehat** » 30 Dec 2008, 11:32

I have a 1994 Volvo 850 and the cigarette lighter doesn't work. I've checked the appropriate fuse and it is fine. We bought a GPS, so I'm in the process of buying a replacement 12v lighter.

I've looked at the location of the cigarette lighter near the gear shift. Does anyone know how to get that panel off to install it? Are there any diagrams or instructions?

I'm somewhat challenged when it comes to working on cars, so any help would be appreciated.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 30 Dec 2008, 12:52

Not necessarily about the cig lighter but it is involved in the write-up so hope this helps: http://volvospeed.com/Repair/Microswitch.php
Btw, you do know that the cig lighter is NOT on unless the key is engaged, right?

Post by **BEJinFbk** » 30 Dec 2008, 14:08

A lighter socket is pretty simple. There's not that much to break.
Unless it's completely trashed, you probably don't need to replace it.
Have you pulled out a DMM and checked it for power?

Post by **tailor** » 30 Dec 2008, 14:26

Stevehat, I had a similar problem when I tried to connect the I pod Belkin holder, that doesn't work very well, FM transmitter.
Anyway there was a single lead that was disconnected, I had changed out the bulb and forget to plug it back in. If this is the case for you, you will have to get to the guts of lighter. There is a nice write up as how to get into the center console as mentioned by MIJ.

msm15 · Post by **msm15** » 30 Dec 2008, 21:24

Hi I had the same problem with the front lighter in my 98 glt, and I now have the same problem on my 98 T5.

The cigarette lighter in the back of the arm rest still worked though so I just opened things up and wired the front lighter into the rear lighter and now it works fine.

I dont know if will cause an issue of drawing too much current in the circuit being used that way, but I never use both lighters at the same time anyways.

I have to do it again on my T5, if you want I can post pics