Cigar lighter issue

[Tbruz]

I've searched the existing threads on the cigarette lighter issues popping fuses but I think I need some additional help here.

I have a 2003 Explorer Sport that pops fuse #17 (20Amp) and takes out the OBD II connection if I try using the cigarette lighter.
I replaced the fuse and the OBD connection is fine IF I do not attempt to use the lighter.
Thinking the socket is bad I went ahead and replaced the lighter socket with a Dorman aftermarket lighter/socket( $5 versus the Ford ones at $40) but the fuse still pops if I push in the lighter to use it.

So either I have a bad Dorman socket/lighter or my problem is in the wires.
Thinking I can prove the socket/lighter assembly is good or bad by hooking it up directly to the battery and seeing if it works that way.

I do measure 12 V at the center post of the socket so I know the voltage is there before pushing in the lighter element.

I'm looking for a specific test/method to check the existing lighter wires out for shorts or bad ground??

It only two wires at the back side of the socket , how hard can this problem be
Thanks in advance
Tbruz





Thanks
Tbruz

 

[itzbinnice]

Before tracing if it’s a wiring problem it may just be a bad cigarette lighter element causing the fuse to blow.

To check, assemble a wire with a 20 amp inline fuse and a ground wire.
Hook them directly to the battery and see if the lighter functions properly.

Another test would be to try the lighter in a different vehicle, if it blows the fuse you know its’ the lighter. I would not suggest that since if you're unfamiliar with the location of the fuse for that vehicle, it may be a pain knowing which fuse blew.

 

[koda2000]

as you've replaced the socket an it still blows fuses, the problem has to be the element. they don't last forever. the cig lighter is about as simple an electrical device as you can have. when there's a problem it's usually that the element is shorted out.

 

[Tbruz]

I should have been clearer but both the socket and lighter element were new aftermarket(Dorman); I will be trying them outside the vehicle wiring powered up directly by a battery to rule them in or out as defective.

Edit: Hooked up the Dorman replacement lighter socket/lighter element to a battery with 18 - 20g wire along with a 25A fuse on the pos side and it works perfectly.

Points to car wiring or maybe I need to up fuse to 25A?
I could easily use a dedicated ground if that was the culprit.
What tests can I do on the car wiring itself?
Thanks
Tbruz