<em>Nissan Primera P12</em>cigarette lighter fuse: location, number, replacement and diagnostics

Introduction: why the cigarette lighter does not work in Nissan Primera P12?

If the cigarette lighter is in your Nissan Primera P12 (2002–2008) has stopped working, the first thing to check is fuse. This is the most common cause of malfunction, especially if powerful devices were previously connected - compressors, DVRs or laptop chargers. In 80% of cases, the problem is solved by replacing the burnt out element, but for this you need to know where exactly is it located and what number it has in the block.

B Primera P12 The cigarette lighter fuse can be located in one of two places - in salon block (under the steering wheel) or in additional block (behind the glove box). Its designation depends on the year of manufacture and equipment of the car. In this article you will find exact location diagrams, fuse numbers for different P12 modifications and step-by-step diagnostic instructions.

Where is the cigarette lighter fuse box located? Nissan Primera P12?

B Primera P12 The cigarette lighter fuse can be installed in two places:

• 🔧 Main cabin block — located under the steering wheel, to the left of the pedals. It is accessible after removing the plastic cover.
• 📦 Additional block — located behind the glove box (glove compartment). To get to it, you need to remove the box by releasing the latches.

In most versions P12 (2002–2005) the cigarette lighter fuse is in salon block under number F37 (15A). However, in restyled models (2006–2008) it could be moved to an additional block under number F20 (20A). The exact location depends on the configuration and market (European, Japanese or American version).

Fuse box diagram Nissan Primera P12: where to look for a cigarette lighter?

Below are the fuse diagrams for the two main versions Primera P12. Please note that numbers may vary depending on the version!

Model/Year	Fuse number	Denomination (A)	Location
Primera P12 (2002–2005)	F37	15A	Interior block (under the steering wheel)
Primera P12 (2006–2008, restyled)	F20	20A	Additional block (behind the glove compartment)
Primera P12 (Japanese version)	F18	10A	Salon block
Primera P12 (with Bose audio system)	F39	15A	Additional block

If your machine is equipped additional 12V socket in the trunk, its fuse can be separate - usually it is F40 (15A) in the cabin block. To determine the exact number, check with sticker on the back of the unit cover — the current diagram for your configuration is indicated there.

How to check a fuse without a tester?

If you don't have a multimeter at hand, you can visually inspect the fuse in the light. A burnt out element will have broken thread inside or blackened contacts. However, this method is not always reliable - sometimes the break is not visible to the naked eye.

Step-by-step instructions: how to replace the cigarette lighter fuse

If you determine that the fuse is blown, replacing it will take no more than 5 minutes. Follow the instructions:

1. Turn off the ignition and make sure all electrical appliances are turned off.
2. Locate the fuse box (see diagrams above) and remove the cover by pressing the latches.
3. Use plastic tweezers (usually included with the machine) to remove the fuse. If you don’t have tweezers, you can carefully pry them off with a screwdriver.
4. Install a new fuse same denomination (15A or 20A). Do not use bugs or oversized fuses!
5. Check the operation of the cigarette lighter by connecting a known working device (for example, a phone charger).

⚠️ Attention! If a new fuse blows immediately after installation, this indicates short circuit in the chain. In this case, it is necessary to check the cigarette lighter wiring and connectors for damage. Connecting powerful devices (more than 180 W) without an adapter can lead to re-combustion!

Causes of cigarette lighter fuse blown

The cigarette lighter fuse does not burn out just like that - it is a signal of a malfunction in the circuit. Let's look at the main reasons:

• ⚡ Connecting powerful devices - compressors, 12V→220V inverters or DVRs with high consumption (more than 10A) often cause overload.
• 🔌 Short circuit in socket — ingress of metal objects (coins, paper clips) or oxidation of contacts.
• 🔋 Wiring fault — frayed or melted wires behind the cigarette lighter (especially if repairs were previously carried out).
• 🛠️ Installation of non-standard equipment — additional sockets, subwoofers or LED strips connected directly to the cigarette lighter circuit.

If the fuse blows again, don't increase its value - this may cause a fire! Instead:

1. Disconnect all devices from the cigarette lighter.
2. Check the outlet for foreign objects.
3. Use a tester to check the circuit for short circuit (resistance should be infinite with consumers disconnected).

How to check the cigarette lighter circuit with a multimeter

If replacing the fuse does not help, you need to check the circuit itself. For this you will need multimeter (or a simple control lamp). Follow the algorithm:

1. Checking the fuse voltage:
   • Turn on the ignition.
   • Set the multimeter to DC 20V.
   • Connect the probes to the fuse terminals (red - to "+", black - to ground). The voltage should be 12–14V.
2. Checking the cigarette lighter socket:
   • Remove the cigarette lighter from its socket.
   • Connect the probes to the central contact ("+") and the body ("–"). The voltage should match the reading on the fuse.
3. Short circuit test:
   • Turn off the fuse.
   • Set the multimeter to ohmmeter (200Ω).
   • Connect the probes to the socket contacts. There must be resistance endless (OL). If it shows 0Ω - there is a short circuit in the circuit!

If there is voltage at the fuse, but not at the outlet, the problem is wiring between the unit and the cigarette lighter. If there is no voltage anywhere, check cigarette lighter relay (in some versions P12 it is installed in an additional block under number R12).

Frequent mistakes during diagnostics and repairs

Many owners Nissan Primera P12 make typical mistakes that complicate repairs or lead to repeated breakdowns. That's what can't do:

• 🔥 Install a bug instead of a fuse - this may lead to melted wiring or fire.
• 🔧 Ignore circuit check after replacement - if the fuse burns out again, the problem is not solved.
• 📉 Connect powerful devices without an adapter - the cigarette lighter is designed for maximum 120–150 W (10–12A).
• 🔍 Don't check additional outlets — there may be a separate fuse in the trunk or on the center console.

Another common mistake is Confusing the cigarette lighter fuse with the audio system fuse. B Primera P12 they are often located nearby (for example, F37 And F38), but have different denominations. If you mix it up, you can damage the radio!

⚠️ Attention! In some versions P12 With a factory alarm, the cigarette lighter fuse may be tied to the immobilizer circuit. If after replacing the fuse the car does not start or the alarm flashes, check fuse F10 (10A) in the cabin unit — he is responsible for communication between blocks.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the cigarette lighter fuse Nissan Primera P12

Can I use a 20A fuse instead of a 15A fuse?

No, it's dangerous! The fuse is rated for the maximum current that the wiring can handle. Installing an element with a higher rating will lead to overheating of the wires and the risk of fire. If 15A constantly burns out, look for the cause (short circuit or overload), and do not increase the rating.

Where to buy a fuse for Primera P12?

Standard size fuses (mini blade) are sold at any auto store or gas station. For P12 will fit:

• 15A — red (part number: ATF15 or similar).
• 20A — yellow (article: ATF20).

Cost - from 10 to 50 rubles per piece. You can buy a set of 10 fuses of different ratings.

Why does the cigarette lighter still not work after replacing the fuse?

Possible reasons:

1. The cigarette lighter socket itself is faulty (oxidation or broken contacts).
2. The problem is the cigarette lighter relay (if your version has one P12).
3. Broken wire between the fuse box and the socket.
4. The cigarette lighter itself is faulty (the spiral inside has burned out).

Check the voltage at the socket contacts with a multimeter. If it is not there, look for an open circuit.

How to remove the cigarette lighter for inspection?

Instructions:

1. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
2. Use a screwdriver to pry up the plastic ring around the cigarette lighter (it is held on by latches).
3. Disconnect the power connector from the back of the cigarette lighter.
4. Check the integrity of the spiral inside (it should glow when heated).

If the spiral burns out, the cigarette lighter must be replaced (part number for P12: 28550-4M000 or similar).

Is it possible to connect an additional 12V socket in Primera P12?

Yes, but subject to the rules:

• Connect in parallel standard socket using a wire with a cross-section of at least 1.5 mm².
• Install separate fuse (15–20A) next to the block.
• Do not connect the outlet directly to the battery without a fuse!

Best to use splitter with fuse, which is inserted into a standard socket.