Cigarette lighter socket removal... - Page 2

UrbanDrifter · 04-22-2018, 10:57 PM

How did this work out for you? were you able to replace you cig lighters?

bigriver · 07-02-2020, 05:51 PM

I'm bumping this back up because I'm having the same issue not getting the cig lighter outta my '03 E350. I tried the coat hanger pull tool Jack suggested but it's not budging. It looks like it has some tabs on the back (I've got the dash pulled off part way) but I've been at it for awhile and I'm afraid I'm going to break something I'd rather not. Shouldn't be that hard but thinkin I need some help here... anyone?

BrianW · 07-02-2020, 06:35 PM

They have a sleeve that unscrews from the back. The main part inserts from the front and has a lip that catches the dash trim. The back of that part has threads and there’s a collar that threads onto it. Pop the dash trim piece off and it will be easy.

Futrmbl · 07-02-2020, 09:38 PM

The sleeve looks like it is the housing.

bigriver · 07-02-2020, 11:40 PM

I'll give that a try... much appreciated!

JWA · 07-03-2020, 06:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigriver

I'm bumping this back up because I'm having the same issue not getting the cig lighter outta my '03 E350. I tried the coat hanger pull tool Jack suggested but it's not budging. It looks like it has some tabs on the back (I've got the dash pulled off part way) but I've been at it for awhile and I'm afraid I'm going to break something I'd rather not. Shouldn't be that hard but thinkin I need some help here... anyone?

You're 100% on the tabs found behind the trim panel. Honestly I have NO idea how to remove the socket without crushing (and destroying) it. I've replaced several along the way, have tried a number of tools, methods and guessing, some involving a high powered magnifying lens lamp---still just cannot get the hang of replacing this damn things damage free.

The screw sleeve mentioned a bit earlier were from about '99 or so, sadly they can't be substituted into the openings for the snap-in style.

mikracer · 07-03-2020, 09:55 AM

I read through some of the reviews on the amazon link. Sounds like the tool is used to basically release the tabs holding the sleeve. Once its released (pulling out about an 1/8 of an inch), remove the tool and use your hands to wiggle the sleeve out.

bigriver · 07-03-2020, 10:25 AM

I've now read those reviews as well and at least understand the retention mechanism. Thanks for the assistance.

BCam · 07-03-2020, 10:50 AM

Anybody know what model years are compatible with the tool? I have a 2005 and was wondering if it would work on mine.

bigriver · 07-03-2020, 08:14 PM

I finally took a Dremel to the tabs on the outside of the lighter shaft. I couldn't get anything else to work. The tabs were pushing out from the lighter insert so would need some kind of tool that could depress both at once from the outside. Popped right out once that was done.

Thanks all for the responses.