Heres a random one for you! Ciggy lighter Port killing heater

[wrxguy]

Just found out this a few days ago. I couldnt turn on my heater while I was heading outta town & it was cold. My poor feet were cold for most of the trip! Just before I got there I looked down & saw the cigarette lighter usb charger was still plugged in, dunno why maybe kids did it. I pulled it out thinking it doesnt need to be plugged in cos nothing is charging. A few seconds after unplugging it the heater turned on. I had left it turned on after trying it but it only came to life after the usb plug was taken out. I thought it was a fluke so I tried plugging in & out a few times. It was stopping the heater each time i plugged it in. I tried plugging in the 12v rattle gun which gets power from ciggy lighter I have in the car (luckily never needed to use it in emergency!)& it wouldnt run. So thats a random one for you guys. Anyone had this issue or know how to fix or do I need to stump up the cash for an Auto Sparky?

Edited May 27, 2014 by wrxguy

[Joker]

someones got their wires crossed : who installed your stereo?

[94 Leone]

You sure it isn't a wet BMW?

They play funny electrical games, like opening the sun visor mirrors turns on the stereo.

and "Oh I'm wet, the CD stacker doesn't work for now".

I'd say play the trace the wires game; possibly worn wires.

[Rosssub]

Does the stereo face or heater light bulbs go dim at the same time? Could be a loose or broken earth in the dash.

[wrxguy]

Dunno bro. It was installed when I bought it. I replaced the Sony stereo that was in it with a better Sony I had which was just plug & play!

I never thought about this being an issue in what the problem was.

I never use the ciggy lighter for powering stuff so I have not noticed this before. The only reason it has popped up now is we had a family trip to Dunedin for a holiday & Rally Otago & I bought a usb charger for the phone because it chews thru battery power when in low reception areas. So not using the ciggy lighter & 4 years after buying the Rex I find an issue that could be the stereo install by a previous owner!

Thanks mate!

[wrxguy]

 Rosssub said:

Does the stereo face or heater light bulbs go dim at the same time? Could be a loose or broken earth in the dash.

I havent noticed bro. I will go down the stereo wiring check first before digging in behind the dash.