* Wiring harness damage: A break, short, or corrosion in the wiring harness running from the fuse box to the front lighter outlets is the most likely culprit. This could be anywhere along the route, including under the dash, near the steering column, or even within a connector. Inspect the wiring visually if possible, looking for any obvious damage.
* Faulty lighter sockets: One or more of the front lighter sockets themselves could be internally broken. Even if the fuse is good and power is getting to the harness, a bad socket won't complete the circuit.
* Bad relay (less likely): While less common, some vehicles use a relay to control power to the lighter sockets. A faulty relay could prevent power from reaching the front lighters while leaving the trunk lighter unaffected if it has a separate circuit. This would require checking the wiring diagram to see if a relay is involved.
* Incorrect fuse assignment (least likely): Double-check your owner's manual to confirm that fuse 32 *definitely* covers the front cigarette lighters. It's possible the manual is wrong or there's a mislabeling. You could also try checking other fuses related to accessories just in case.
Troubleshooting Steps:
1. Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the wiring harness leading to the front lighters. Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as cuts, fraying, or corrosion.
2. Voltage Test: With the ignition on, use a multimeter to test for voltage at the terminals of each of the three front cigarette lighter sockets. If there's no voltage, the problem is upstream in the wiring or possibly the relay (if applicable). If there *is* voltage at the sockets but the lighters still don't work, the sockets themselves are likely the issue.
3. Wiring Diagram: Obtain a wiring diagram for your 2002 Buick Rendezvous. This will show the exact routing of the wiring and any relays involved. This can help pinpoint the location of a break in the circuit.
4. Professional Help: If you're not comfortable working with car electrical systems, take your Rendezvous to a qualified mechanic. They will have the tools and expertise to diagnose and repair the problem efficiently and safely.
Remember to disconnect the negative battery terminal before undertaking any electrical work in your vehicle.
