How to Fix the Cigarette Lighter on a 1991 Honda Civic

The head of a cigarette lighter in a 1991 Honda Civic.

The cigarette lighter in your 1991 Honda Civic provides 12-volt electrical power to devices like navigational systems and cell phone chargers. Although the cigarette lighter is not essential to the operation of the 1991 Honda Civic, not being able to use your electronic devices or light a cigarette can cause frustration. Fix your lighter so you can power modern electrical accessories in your 1991 Honda Civic again.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• Plyers
• New 1991 Honda Civic compatible cigarette lighter

Instructions

1. Remove the ash tray from its holder on the center lower panel. Open the hood and disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2. Remove two clips from the center lower panel of the control panel. The clips are near the floor and underneath the dash on the driver's side and passenger's side of the wrap around panel. Pull the panel forward to reveal the back of the cigarette lighter assembly.

3. Disconnect the electrical wiring harness from the back of the cigarette lighter. Use pliers to remove the small nut holding the lighter in place. The nut is located inside the back of the lighter.

4. Push the cigarette lighter out of its holder from inside the center lower panel. Push a new cigarette lighter into the housing. Reinstall the small holding nut, the wire harness and the lower center panel clips.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a flat head screwdriver to pry the cigarette lighter housing from the panel as a short cut. This may cause aesthetic damage to the interior.

• Always disconnect the battery when dealing with electrical components to avoid damage to the vehicle and shock to you.

References

• "Chilton's Honda Civic, CRX and Del Sol 1984-95 Repair Manual"; Jaffer A. Ahmad; 1995