Introduction: Why doesn't the cigarette lighter work?
If the cigarette lighter is in your Nissan Almera Classic stopped working, the first thing to check is fuse. This malfunction occurs more often than it seems: from overload (for example, when connecting powerful gadgets) to simple contact wear. But before you sin on the electrics, make sure that the problem is not in the socket itself - sometimes oxidation or mechanical damage is to blame.
In this article we will look at exact fuse locations for different generations Almera Classic (including restyled versions), we will learn how to diagnose and replace them, and also give advice on how to avoid repeated breakdowns. We will pay special attention hidden nuances, which are not written about in standard instructions - for example, why on some modifications the cigarette lighter fuse is combined with other circuits.
What generations of Almera Classic are we considering?
Model Nissan Almera Classic (also known as Nissan Sunny in some regions) was produced from 2006 to 2012 and had two main platforms:
- 🔹 N16 (2006–2010) - first generation Almera Classic, based on Nissan Pulsar. The fuse box here is located under the hood and in the passenger compartment.
- 🔹 B10 (2010–2012) - restyled version with an updated instrument panel. The fuse circuits in it have partially changed.
Important: if your car was manufactured after 2012, most likely it is already Nissan Almera G15 (or Almera N18 in some countries) - it has a different fuse circuit. For accuracy, check the VIN or refer to the table below.
| Generation | Years of manufacture | Cigarette lighter fuse location | Denomination (A) |
|---|---|---|---|
| N16 (dorestayl) | 2006–2008 | Cabin block (left side of steering wheel) | 15 |
| N16 (restyle) | 2008–2010 | Cabin block (under the glove compartment) | 20 |
| B10 | 2010–2012 | Engine compartment (main) | 20 |
- N16 (2006–2010)
- B10 (2010–2012)
- I don't know how to determine
- Other
Where to look for the cigarette lighter fuse on N16 (2006–2010)?
In cars Nissan Almera Classic N16 The cigarette lighter fuse is in salon block. Its location depends on the year of manufacture:
- 🔧 Until 2008: The fuse box is hidden behind a plastic cover to the left of the steering column. To gain access, turn the three latches counterclockwise.
- 🔧 After 2008 (restyle): the unit has been moved under the glove compartment. To access, open the glove compartment, press the latches on the sides and lower it down.
The fuse you are looking for is usually marked as CIGAR or PWR OUTLET with par value 15–20 A. There should be a diagram on the block cover indicating the exact location. If there is no diagram, rely on color: the cigarette lighter fuse is most often yellow (20 A) or blue (15 A).
What to do if the fuse is intact but the cigarette lighter does not work?
If the fuse is good, check:
1. **Socket contacts** - often oxidize or bend.
2. **Wiring** - a break or short circuit is possible (especially if powerful devices were connected).
3. **Relay** - in some modifications the cigarette lighter is controlled by a relay PWR RELAY (located next to the fuse box).
Features of B10 (2010–2012): why is the fuse in the engine compartment?
In the restyled version Almera Classic B10 the manufacturer moved the cigarette lighter fuse to main unit under the hood. This decision is associated with the unification of electrical circuits - now the cigarette lighter and 12V socket are protected by one fuse, which is also responsible for ACC (auxiliary equipment).
To get to the block:
- Open the hood and locate the black plastic box on the right (passenger side).
- Press the two latches on the sides and remove the cover.
- The fuse you are looking for is marked as
F17orCIGAR/ACCwith par value 20 A.
⚠️ Attention: On some versions B10 The cigarette lighter fuse is combined with the audio system circuit. If after replacement the radio stops working, check that the fuse is installed correctly (it should be exactly 20 A, no more!).
☑️ Preparing to replace the fuse
How to check a fuse without a tester?
If you don't have a multimeter at hand, you can check the fuse visually or using a simple light bulb. Here are three reliable ways:
- 👁️ Visual inspection: Take out the fuse and look at the light. If the metal thread inside is burnt out (broken), it needs to be replaced.
- 💡 Checking with a light bulb: take any 12V light bulb with wires (for example, from dimensions). Connect one wire to ground, and the second one in turn to the fuse contacts. If the light does not light up, the fuse has blown.
- 🔄 Replacing with a known good one: temporarily install a fuse with the same rating from another circuit (for example, from dimensions). If the cigarette lighter works, the problem is solved.
If the fuse blows again after replacement, this indicates short circuit in the chain. In this case, it is not recommended to install a fuse of a higher rating - this may lead to a fire! It is better to contact an auto electrician to diagnose the wiring.
To prevent the fuse from blowing, avoid connecting devices that consume more than 10 A (for example, compressors or high-power inverters) to the cigarette lighter. Use power strips with overload protection.
Common mistakes when replacing a fuse
Even experienced drivers sometimes make mistakes that lead to new problems. That's what can't do:
- ❌ Install a fuse with rated above 20 A - this is a risk of wiring melting.
- ❌ Using “bugs” (homemade wire jumpers) is a direct path to a short circuit.
- ❌ Ignore checking the cigarette lighter socket - if the contacts are oxidized, the new fuse will also burn out.
- ❌ Forget about the relay - in some modifications Almera Classic cigarette lighter controlled by relay
PWR RELAY, which can also fail.
If after replacing the fuse the cigarette lighter still does not work, check:
- The voltage at the socket contacts (should be
12–14 Vwith the ignition on). - Integrity of the wire from the fuse box to the cigarette lighter (often frays near the pedal assembly).
- The functionality of the cigarette lighter itself - try inserting it into another socket (if available).
If the fuse blows immediately after replacement, the problem is not in it, but in the circuit. It is necessary to diagnose the wiring or devices connected to the cigarette lighter.
Prevention: how to extend the life of a cigarette lighter?
To avoid frequent breakdowns, follow simple rules:
- 🔌 Use only certified devices with a 12V connector. Cheap Chinese chargers often cause short circuits.
- 🧹 Regularly clean the cigarette lighter socket from dust and debris - they can cause poor contact.
- ⚡ Do not connect devices with a consumption of more than 120 W (10 A). For powerful appliances (for example, refrigerators), use a direct connection from the battery through a separate fuse.
- 🔄 Periodically (every 6 months) check the condition of the fuse and socket contacts.
If you frequently plug in gadgets, consider installing an additional 12V outlet with a separate fuse. This will reduce the load on the standard chain and extend its service life.
FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to replace a 25A cigarette lighter fuse if the 20A keeps blowing?
No! Increasing the fuse rating can lead to melted wiring or even a fire. If the fuse blows frequently, look for a short circuit or an overload in the circuit. Contact an auto electrician for diagnosis.
Where is the cigarette lighter relay located on Nissan Almera Classic?
On most versions Almera Classic There is no cigarette lighter relay - the circuit is protected only by a fuse. However, on some modifications B10 relay can be installed PWR RELAY in the cabin unit (next to the fuses). Check its location according to the diagram on the block cover.
Why does the radio not work after replacing the fuse?
On some versions Almera Classic The cigarette lighter fuse is combined with the audio system circuit (ACC). If the radio does not turn on after replacement, check:
- Correct fuse installation (must be exactly 20 A).
- The state of the contacts in the radio connector.
- Having a separate fuse for the audio system (usually
AUDIOorRADIO).
Which fuse is responsible for the cigarette lighter on an Almera Classic with a diesel engine?
On diesel versions Nissan Almera Classic (for example, with an engine K9K) the fuse circuit is identical to its gasoline counterparts. The cigarette lighter fuse is also located in the passenger compartment or engine compartment (depending on the generation) and has a rating 20 A.
Can I use the cigarette lighter to connect the compressor?
Technically possible, but with reservations:
- 🔋 The compressor must have a consumption of no more than 10 A (120 W).
- 🔌 Connect the compressor only when the engine is running to avoid draining the battery.
- ⚡ Monitor the condition of the fuse - if it gets hot, turn off the device immediately.
For regular use of the compressor, it is better to install a separate outlet with a direct connection to the battery.