Cigarette lighter in Nissan Qashqai J11 (2013–2021) - one of the most popular interior elements, especially if you actively use gadgets, DVRs or chargers. But what if it suddenly stopped working? In 80% of cases the problem lies in a burnt out fuse - a small but critical part that protects the electrical circuit from overloads.

In this article we will figure out where is the cigarette lighter fuse located on Qashqai J11, how to check and replace it without contacting service. You will also learn why it may burn out again and again, and how to avoid it. The information is relevant for all modifications of the model, including restyled versions of 2017–2021.

Where is the cigarette lighter fuse on Nissan Qashqai J11?

B Qashqai J11 The cigarette lighter fuse is located in interior fuse box, which is hidden behind a plastic cover on the driver's side dashboard. The exact location depends on the year of manufacture and configuration, but the general principle is the same:

  • 🔧 For 2013–2016 models. — the block is located to the left of the steering column, under the cover with the inscription FUSE.
  • 🔧 For restyling 2017–2021. — the block is moved closer to the center console, next to the hood opening lever.
  • 🔧 Additional block (if equipped) may be in the trunk, but the cigarette lighter fuse is there never not installed.

To get to the block, just pry the cover with your finger or a flat-head screwdriver - it is secured with latches. Under the cover you will see a diagram with the designation of fuses. We are looking for an inscription CIGAR or PWR OUTLET (sometimes ACC SOCKET).

📊 How often do you use the cigarette lighter in your car?
  • Daily
  • Several times a week
  • Somewhat
  • Only when traveling
  • I don't use it

Fuse rating: which one should I use?

B Nissan Qashqai J11 The cigarette lighter fuse is standard 15 Ampere rating (yellow). However, in some configurations (for example, with additional 12V sockets), a fuse may be installed on 20 Amps (yellow with transparent body).

Important: never install a fuse with a higher rating (for example, 25A or 30A), even if the original one constantly burns out! This may lead to fires in wiring or failure of the cigarette lighter itself.

Year of manufacture Equipment Fuse rating Color
2013–2016 Basic (Visia, Acenta) 15A Yellow
2017–2021 Tekna, N-Connecta 20A Yellow (transparent)
2013–2021 With additional 12V socket 20A Yellow (transparent)

Critical information: If in your Qashqai J11 a 20A fuse is installed, but it constantly blows, the problem may lie in short circuit in the circuit or malfunction of the socket itself. In this case, diagnostics with a multimeter is required.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the fuse

Replacing the cigarette lighter fuse with Nissan Qashqai J11 takes no more than 5 minutes. You will need:

  • 🔧 Flat screwdriver (or nails).
  • 🔧 New fuse (15A or 20A).
  • 🔧 Flashlight (if there is not enough light).

Turn off the ignition and remove the key from the lock

Open the fuse box cover

Locate the fuse labeled CIGAR or PWR OUTLET

Prepare a new fuse of the required rating -->

Next, follow the algorithm:

  1. Turn off the ignition and make sure all electrical appliances are turned off.
  2. Remove the fuse box cover (pry it off with a screwdriver or your finger).
  3. On the back of the cover, find a diagram and determine which fuse is responsible for the cigarette lighter.
  4. Take tweezers (usually attached to the block cover) and carefully remove the old fuse.
  5. Check it for integrity: if the wire inside is burned out, the fuse must be replaced.
  6. Install a new fuse same denomination.
  7. Close the unit cover and check the operation of the cigarette lighter.

If after replacement the fuse blows again, the problem may be:

  • 🔌 Short circuit in the wiring.
  • 🔌 Malfunctions of the cigarette lighter itself (for example, oxidation of contacts).
  • 🔌 Connecting powerful devices (for example, compressor or inverter).
💡

If you don’t have tweezers at hand, you can carefully remove the fuse with two fingers, prying it with your nails on both sides. The main thing is not to use excessive force so as not to damage the block sockets.

Why does the cigarette lighter fuse keep blowing?

If the fuse blows immediately after replacement or after a short time, this is a signal about serious malfunction. Let's look at the main reasons:

  1. Connecting powerful devices. Cigarette lighter Qashqai J11 designed for loads up to 120–150 W. If you connect a compressor, inverter, or laptop charger, the current may exceed the permissible limit.
  2. Short circuit in the circuit. Most often it occurs due to damage to the wire insulation or moisture getting into the connectors.
  3. Oxidation of cigarette lighter contacts. Over time, the contacts become coated, which increases resistance and leads to overheating.
  4. Poor quality fuse. Cheap Chinese analogues may have an inaccurate value or poor contact.

To diagnose the problem, follow these steps:

  1. Disconnect all devices from the cigarette lighter.
  2. Replace the fuse and turn on the ignition without load connection.
  3. If the fuse does not blow, the problem is in the connected device.
  4. If it burns out, look for a short circuit in the wiring.
How to check a circuit with a multimeter?

1. Set the multimeter to resistance (Ω) test mode.

2. Turn off the fuse and connect the probes to the cigarette lighter socket contacts.

3. If the resistance is close to zero, there is a short circuit in the circuit.

4. If the resistance is infinite, the circuit is working properly, the problem may be in the cigarette lighter itself.

How to avoid repeated breakdowns?

To ensure that the cigarette lighter fuse is on Nissan Qashqai J11 served longer, follow these recommendations:

  • ⚡ Do not connect devices with power exceeding 150 W. For compressors or inverters, use direct wiring from the battery.
  • ⚡ Clean the cigarette lighter contacts periodically. Use WD-40 or alcohol to remove oxidation.
  • ⚡ Buy quality fuses. Give preference to brands Bosch, Hella or original Nissan.
  • ⚡ Do not leave devices in the cigarette lighter overnight. Even when turned off, some gadgets consume current.

If you frequently use your cigarette lighter to charge multiple devices, consider installing additional 12V socket with separate fuse. This will reduce the load on the standard chain.

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The most common reason for a blown fuse is the connection of powerful devices (compressors, inverters). Always check their current consumption before use!

What to do if replacing the fuse did not help?

If the cigarette lighter still does not work after replacing the fuse, the problem may lie in:

  • 🔧 Malfunctions of the cigarette lighter itself (the heating coil has burnt out or the contacts have come loose).
  • 🔧 Broken wiring between the fuse box and the socket.
  • 🔧 Relay faults (in rare cases, the cigarette lighter is controlled by a relay, for example, in versions with heated seats).

For diagnostics:

  1. Check the voltage at the cigarette lighter contacts with a multimeter (should be 12–14 V with the ignition on).
  2. If there is no voltage, ring the wires from the fuse box to the socket.
  3. If there is voltage, but the cigarette lighter does not heat, disassemble it and check the coil.

In difficult cases (for example, a break in the wiring inside the cabin), it is better to contact an auto electrician. Self-repair may damage other systems.

💡

If the cigarette lighter not only does not work, but also “knocks out” the fuse when connecting any device, most likely the problem is a short circuit inside the socket. Try to carefully disassemble it and clean the contacts.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the cigarette lighter fuse Nissan Qashqai J11

Is it possible to replace the cigarette lighter fuse with a more powerful one (for example, 25A)?

No! Installing a fuse with a larger rating may result in fire in the wiring or cigarette lighter failure. Always use a safety lock 15A or 20A (depending on the configuration).

Where to buy an original fuse for Qashqai J11?

Original fuses Nissan can be purchased:

  • In official dealer centers (article: 28515-JA00A for 15A).
  • Auto parts stores (eg. Bosch or Hella).
  • On AliExpress or Wildberries (but check the reviews!).
Why does the cigarette lighter work but the fuse still blows?

This may happen due to:

  • Microcircuits in the circuit (for example, when vibration occurs, the wires touch metal parts of the body).
  • Connecting devices with current surges (for example, some DVRs).
  • Bad contact in the fuse socket (heating → burnout).

It is recommended to check the circuit with a multimeter in calls.

Can I use the cigarette lighter to connect a refrigerator or inverter?

No, standard cigarette lighter Qashqai J11 not designed for such loads. For refrigerator or inverter with power over 200 W required:

  • Connect straight to the battery via a separate fuse.
  • Use additional 12V socket with thick wires and a fuse on 30–40A.
Which fuse is responsible for the additional 12V socket in the trunk?

B Nissan Qashqai J11 The auxiliary socket (if present) is usually connected to the same fuse as the main cigarette lighter (15A or 20A). However, in some trim levels it may have separate fuse with markings REAR PWR OUTLET (face value 20A).

⚠️ Attention: If the cigarette lighter sparks or gets hot after replacing the fuse, turn it off immediately! This is a sign of a short circuit or a faulty socket. Continued use may result in fire.