Automotive 12V DC Accessory/Cigarette Lighter Power Socket Housing
Electrical Accessory / Automotive Component · None - The item is steel or nickel-plated brass.
Purity: 0% Null - This item contains no gold. It is composed of base metals.
Type
Electrical Accessory / Automotive Component
Purity
0% Null - This item contains no gold. It is composed of base metals.
Gold Type
None - The item is steel or nickel-plated brass.
Weight
15 to 25 grams
Description
This is a standard 12-volt automotive accessory socket, commonly referred to as a cigarette lighter receptacle. It consists of a cylindrical metallic housing that acts as the ground terminal, with an insulated central positive terminal at the base. It is designed to be mounted inside a vehicle dashboard to provide power for electronic devices or to heat a cigarette lighter element.
Key Features
Spring-tensioned side clips for panel mounting, flanged rim, and spade terminals for wiring harness connection.
Color & Finish
Metallic silver/chrome finish with a brushed or semi-polished steel surface; features oxidation and surface grime.
Hallmarks & Stamps
No precious metal hallmarks; likely features part numbers or manufacturer stamping on the side wall or base pins.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 40mm in length and 25mm in diameter at the flange.
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features plastic insulators and copper-alloy electrical terminals.
Clasp & Closure
Friction-fit retention clips on the sides for mounting in a dashboard panel.
Chain & Links
N/A; features two electrical spade connector pins at the base.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial stamping and mechanical assembly. The outer shell is stamped from a sheet of steel or brass and plated for conductivity and corrosion resistance.
Authentication Indicators
Visual inspection reveals a silver metallic luster inconsistent with gold. No precious metal hallmarks; structural features are industrial and functional rather than decorative.
Origin & Maker
Automotive OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or aftermarket parts supplier.
Era & Period
Modern / Late 20th to Early 21st Century Automotive Design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2015 based on the style of the grounded outer casing and terminal layout.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition from cabin amenities for smoking to the modern reliance on mobile electronic power.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good; shows signs of environmental wear, minor surface corrosion, and dust. The electrical pins appear straight.
Value Estimate
Negligible precious metal value. Resale value approximately $2.00 to $10.00 as a replacement part.
Care & Maintenance
Keep contacts clean of debris; use electrical contact cleaner to remove oxidation from terminals. Do not submerge in water.
Similar Items
BMW/Hella Style DIN Accessory Sockets, USB charging inserts, and 24V marine-grade power outlets.
Interesting Facts
The 'cigarette lighter' socket was originally designed for lighting tobacco, but evolved into the '12V Accessory Outlet' which is the universal standard for powering mobile phones and GPS units in cars today.