<em>Nissan Expert</em>cigarette lighter fuse: location, replacement and fault diagnosis

Cigarette lighter in Nissan Expert (also known as Nissan Serena C26/C27 in some markets) is one of the most popular components, especially if you actively use car gadgets: recorders, navigators or chargers. When it suddenly stops working, the first thought is that the fuse has blown. But where to look for it? What denomination is needed for replacement? And why might a new fuse blow again after a couple of days?

In this article we will look at exact location diagrams of the cigarette lighter fuse for different years of manufacture Nissan Expert (including restyled versions), we will learn to diagnose the causes of its burnout and avoid typical mistakes when replacing it. You will also find step-by-step instructions with photos, a fuse compatibility table and answers to frequently asked questions - from “is it possible to install a fuse of a higher rating?” to “what to do if the cigarette lighter sparks?”

If you have already tried changing the fuse, but it blows again, the problem lies deeper. Perhaps it's my fault short circuit in the wiring or a malfunction of the cigarette lighter socket itself. We will tell you how to check this without special tools.

Where is the cigarette lighter fuse located? Nissan Expert?

B Nissan Expert (models E25 And E26, 2012–2022) the cigarette lighter fuse is located in interior fuse box, which is located to the left of the steering column, behind the plastic cover. The exact location depends on the configuration and year of manufacture, but the general scheme is the same:

• 🔧 For versions before 2016 (before restyling): the fuse is designated as CIGAR or PWR OUTLET with par value 15A.
• 🔧 For versions after 2016 (facelift): can be signed as ACC SOCKET (face value 20A).
• ⚠️ Attention: In some trim levels Nissan Expert with two cigarette lighters (front and rear) each has separate fuse!

To get to the block:

1. Open the driver's door and crouch down to see the panel to the left of the steering wheel.
2. Press the fuse box cover latch (usually marked with FUSE).
3. On the inside of the cover you will find a diagram with symbols. Look for the inscription CIGAR or a picture of a cigarette.

In some versions Expert (especially with diesel engines) the fuse box may be hidden deeper. If you don't see it right away, check the space under the glove compartment or behind the glove compartment.

What fuse is needed for the cigarette lighter Nissan Expert?

The fuse rating depends on the year of manufacture and configuration. The table below shows the exact data for different versions:

Year of manufacture	Model/equipment	Fuse rating	Designation on the diagram
2012–2015	Nissan Expert E25 (gasoline/diesel)	15A	CIGAR or PWR OUTLET
2016–2019	Nissan Expert E26 (restyling)	20A	ACC SOCKET
2020–2022	Nissan Serena C27 (for some markets)	20A	FRONT PWR OUTLET
2012–2022	Versions with rear cigarette lighter	15A or 20A	REAR PWR OUTLET

Important: do not use a fuse with a rating higher than specified! For example, if in your version Expert costs 15A, and you put 20A, this can lead to melting wiring or fire in the cigarette lighter socket when overloaded.

Fuse type - standard blade size ATO/ATC. You can buy it at any auto store (price - from 20 to 100 rubles). For reliability, take fuses from trusted brands: Bussmann, Littlefuse or Hella.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the fuse

Replacing the cigarette lighter fuse in Nissan Expert takes no more than 5 minutes. Follow the instructions:

Tweezers (usually included with the car)|New fuse (15A or 20A)|Flashlight (if the fuse box is poorly lit)|Multimeter (for checking voltage, optional)-->

1. Turn off the ignition and make sure all electrical appliances are turned off. This will prevent a short circuit when removing the fuse.
2. Remove the fuse box cover (press the latch and pull it towards you).
3. Locate the cigarette lighter fuse using the diagram (see section above). It is usually located in the top row.
4. Using tweezers, carefully remove the old fuse. Pay attention to its condition:
   • 🔥 Burnt out: The wire inside is broken.
   • ⚡ Melted: The plastic has turned black - a sign of a short circuit.

Insert new fuse same denomination until it clicks.

Check the operation of the cigarette lighter by connecting a known working device (for example, a phone charger).

If after replacement the fuse blows again, the problem is not in it, but in cigarette lighter socket or wiring. In this case, diagnostics are required (see next section).

What to do if the tweezers are lost?

You can carefully remove the fuse using small pliers or even your fingers (if it is not jammed). The main thing is not to damage adjacent fuses or short circuit contacts.

Why does the cigarette lighter fuse keep blowing?

If a new fuse burns out immediately after installation or after a short time, the reasons may be as follows:

• 🔌 Short circuit in the cigarette lighter socket. Metal foreign objects (coins, paper clips) that get inside or damaged contacts are often to blame.
• 🔋 Faulty charger. Cheap Chinese chargers for phones or recorders can cause voltage surges.
• 🔥 Overcurrent. If you connect powerful devices to the cigarette lighter (for example, a car refrigerator or compressor), the fuse rating may not be sufficient.
• 🔧 Oxidation or damage to wiring. Over time, the socket contacts oxidize, which leads to increased resistance and overheating.

How to diagnose the problem:

1. Disconnect all devices from the cigarette lighter.
2. Replace the fuse and turn on the ignition. If it burns out without load, the problem is socket or wiring.
3. If the fuse does not blow, connect devices one at a time. This way you will find the “culprit”.

To check the cigarette lighter socket, use a multimeter:

1. Switch the multimeter to voltage measurement mode (20V DC).
2. Connect the probes to the central and side contacts of the socket.
3. When the ignition is on, the voltage should be 12–14.5V. If it is lower or missing, the problem is in the wiring.

How to fix the cigarette lighter socket if the fuse is intact but the cigarette lighter does not work

If the fuse is working, but the cigarette lighter shows no signs of life, the socket itself is to blame. Let's look at typical faults and how to fix them:

• 🔌 Oxidized contacts: Over time, the metal becomes covered with a green or white coating. Clean the contacts with fine sandpaper or WD-40.
• 🔧 Loose nest: If the charging plug falls out or is not seated tightly, bend the inner tabs of the contacts (carefully so as not to break them!).
• 🔥 Burnt fuse inside the socket: Some cigarette lighters have a built-in thermal fuse. It can be replaced by disassembling the socket.

To repair the nest you will need:

• Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on mounting).
• Soldering iron (if you need to restore contacts).
• Heat shrink tubing or electrical tape.

Step by step repair:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (required!).
2. Remove the trim around the cigarette lighter (usually it is secured with latches).
3. Disconnect the power connector from the socket.
4. Check the integrity of the wires: there should be no melting or breaks.
5. If the contacts inside the socket are burnt, replace the entire socket (cost - from 300 to 1000 rubles).

In some cases, it is easier to buy a new cigarette lighter socket and install it instead of the old one. For Nissan Expert Suitable original spare parts with article numbers: 28520-4M000 (front socket) or 28520-4M010 (rear).

Is it possible to install an additional fuse or relay for the cigarette lighter?

If you frequently connect powerful devices (such as a car vacuum cleaner or portable compressor), a standard fuse may not be enough. In this case, you can upgrade the circuit:

• ⚡ Relay installation: Allows you to relieve the cigarette lighter contacts by connecting power directly from the battery through a relay. The connection diagram is standard: relay, 30–40A fuse and power button.
• 🔌 Additional fuse: You can solder a fuse of a higher rating (for example, 25A) into the positive wire of the socket, but this requires wiring modifications.

An example of a connection diagram via a relay:

Аккумулятор (+) → Предохранитель (40А) → Контакт 30 реле → Контакт 87 реле → Прикуриватель
Контакт 85 реле → Масса
Контакт 86 реле → Кнопка включения → Плюс после замка зажигания

⚠️ Attention: Any changes in electrical wiring must be carried out taking into account the cross-section of the wires. For powerful devices (more than 180W), use wires with a cross-section of at least 2.5 mm² and fuses with a current reserve.

If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to contact an auto electrician. Incorrect connection may result in wiring fire or failure of on-board electronics.

Common mistakes when replacing the cigarette lighter fuse

Even something as simple as replacing a fuse can turn into problems if you make one of these mistakes:

• 🔥 Using the wrong fuse rating. For example, setting 30A instead of 15A leads to the risk of the socket melting.
• 🔧 Replacing the fuse with the ignition on. This may cause a short circuit during removal/installation.
• ⚡ Ignoring signs of a bad socket. If the fuse blows again and you simply install a new one, the problem gets worse.
• 🔌 Connecting powerful devices via splitters. For example, a tee for a cigarette lighter with a connected refrigerator and recorder is almost guaranteed to burn the fuse.

Another common mistake is attempt to repair the socket without disconnecting the battery. Even if the ignition is turned off, there may still be voltage in the cigarette lighter circuit (for example, from an alarm or multimedia system). Always remove the negative terminal before work!

If, after replacing the fuse, the cigarette lighter works, but the devices do not charge through it, check:

• The quality of the contact in the socket (perhaps the charging plug does not reach the bottom).
• Charger output voltage (must be 5V for USB).
• The integrity of the charging wire (often frays at the base).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to install a larger fuse if the standard one keeps blowing?

No! Increasing the fuse rating will result in a risk of wiring melting or fire. If the fuse blows frequently, look for the cause: a short circuit, a faulty charger, or an overloaded circuit.

Where to buy an original fuse for Nissan Expert?

Original fuses Nissan (article 24060-4M000) can be found at official dealerships or ordered online (for example, at Exist.ru or Autodoc). However, high-quality analogues from Bussmann or Littlefuse.

Why does the cigarette lighter spark when charging is connected?

Sparking occurs due to poor contact in the socket or oxidation. Clean the contacts with sandpaper or WD-40. If the sparks are strong, check the charger (it may be faulty).

Is it possible to connect a second cigarette lighter to Nissan Expert?

Yes, but to do this you need to run separate wiring from the battery through a fuse (20–30A) and a relay. Do not connect the second cigarette lighter in parallel with the standard one - this will create additional load on the circuit.

What to do if the fuse is intact, but the cigarette lighter does not work?

Check:

1. Check the voltage at the socket with a multimeter (should be 12V).
2. Integrity of wires from the fuse box to the cigarette lighter.
3. The functionality of the socket itself (the internal contacts may have burned out).

If the problem is in the wiring, contact an auto electrician.