1. Turn Off Power to Cigarette Lighter:
- Locate the fuse box in the trunk of the car.
- Find the fuse labeled "Cigarette Lighter" and remove it to cut power to the lighter.
2. Remove Surrounding Trim:
- Using a plastic trim removal tool or a flat-head screwdriver, pry up the plastic trim surrounding the cigarette lighter.
- Be careful not to damage the trim or surrounding surfaces.
3. Remove Cigarette Lighter Socket:
- Once the trim is removed, you'll see the cigarette lighter socket.
- Use the trim removal tool or screwdriver to pry up and remove the socket from its housing.
4. Disconnect Wiring:
- You will see two wires (usually black and red) connected to the back of the cigarette lighter socket.
- Gently press down on the tabs or clips holding the wires and pull them out.
5. Prepare New Cigarette Lighter:
- Remove the new cigarette lighter socket from its packaging and check that it fits the space.
6. Connect Wires:
- Match the new lighter's wires to the corresponding wires on the car's harness (black to black, red to red).
- Press the wires into the sockets until they click and are securely connected.
7. Test Cigarette Lighter:
- Replace the fuse you removed earlier to restore power to the cigarette lighter.
- Plug a device (e.g., a phone charger) into the lighter and check if it powers on or charges.
8. Reinstall Trim:
- Snap the plastic trim back into place around the new cigarette lighter.
That should complete the process of changing the cigarette lighter socket in your 2000 BMW 3 Series.
