Power outlets, typically 12-volt or USB, provide electricity as direct current (DC) for various objects ranging from navigation screens to phone chargers to in-car vacuums. Some cars have onboard power inverters and deliver alternating current (AC) power through power outlets that match household 3-prong outlets.
Outlets convert the vehicle’s 12-volt electrical system to a lower voltage using a small transformer. The outlets usually do not draw much power from the system, allowing the system to provide power to multiple devices without impacting vehicle performance.
Initially, they served as cigarette lighters in vehicles, but as smoking fell out of favor, they got a new name — the 12-volt outlet — and a new purpose. As technology changed, automakers converted the cigarette-lighter-style outlet to a USB-style outlet.
Like any vehicle component, outlets can stop working. The problem could be anything, including a blown fuse, damaged wiring, or the vehicle’s alternator. The repair usually costs less than $100 if the problem is with the outlet. If it’s one of the other issues, the price could range from less than $1 for a replacement fuse to several hundred dollars to replace the alternator.
If the 12-volt outlet fails, promptly replacing it ensures you can power your devices without interruption.
See also: What Is a New Battery? What Is Cruise Control?
