Technical Radio/12V socket fuse keeps blowing, but only 4A max draw

[Bartazar]

Hi,

About once a year, I have to replace the 15A fuse that powers the radio/12V socket/clock/interior light.
So far, it never happens during usage (i.e. radio suddenly dies or phone stops charging), but misteriously I find the clock not working when entering the car.

Today I measured the current draw on the 15A fuse socket, and even in worst case scenario (charging phone, radio high volume, interior light + clock) I cannot exceed more than 4A. Which is in-line with my expectations.

It must be shorting somewhere, but I'm not sure where to start looking. I already checked the 12V socket compartment and there is nothing inside that could short the 12V socket. Also I find it strange that it happens only once a year.

Anyone has the golden tip?

Thanks

 

[bugsymike]

Hi,

About once a year, I have to replace the 15A fuse that powers the radio/12V socket/clock/interior light.
So far, it never happens during usage (i.e. radio suddenly dies or phone stops charging), but misteriously I find the clock not working when entering the car.

Today I measured the current draw on the 15A fuse socket, and even in worst case scenario (charging phone, radio high volume, interior light + clock) I cannot exceed more than 4A. Which is in-line with my expectations.

It must be shorting somewhere, but I'm not sure where to start looking. I already checked the 12V socket compartment and there is nothing inside that could short the 12V socket. Also I find it strange that it happens only once a year.

Anyone has the golden tip?

Thanks

12 volt socket/cigarette lighter would be my first place to check, in the old days they often came loose and and shorted, also the contact points inside are very close between live and earth.
In the past an 8 amp fuse was normal for a cigarette lighter plug.
The interior light can be another weak spot.

 

[Bartazar]

12 volt socket/cigarette lighter would be my first place to check, in the old days they often came loose and and shorted, also the contact points inside are very close between live and earth.
In the past an 8 amp fuse was normal for a cigarette lighter plug.
The interior light can be another weak spot.

Thanks, the 12v socket or connection coming loose could definitely explain it. Can it be reached by removing the screw in the compartment and lifting the whole thing up? What about the handbrake? I guess if you remove the brushy bit it will fit through?

 

[bugsymike]

Thanks, the 12v socket or connection coming loose could definitely explain it. Can it be reached by removing the screw in the compartment and lifting the whole thing up? What about the handbrake? I guess if you remove the brushy bit it will fit through?

Not sure about your model specifically, my knowledge comes from working on all sorts of makes and models since 1969 until retirement.
Some lighters have a thread underneath that hold them in place which over time comes loose and may be felt by the holder appearing loose.
Note when trying to do anything to that it may blow the fuse again as it can short the connection, so may be safer to disconnect battery.