When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Yes you can install a cigarette lighter if you want. You will have to remove the center console to do it. I just removed my cigarette lighter and installed a dual usb charger that I think looks a lot better.
From: Somewhere south of Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
Originally Posted by BobRoy
Yes you can install a cigarette lighter if you want. You will have to remove the center console to do it. I just removed my cigarette lighter and installed a dual usb charger that I think looks a lot better.
Nice idea! How long did it take you to install it and do you keep dummy plugs in them to prevent debris from getting in?
I got the idea from a member on the X308 forum that was questioning how to get the cigarette lighter out. I don't know him but our newly returned member's Reverend Sam video on how to remove the center console was extremely helpful on removing the console. I then removed the cigarette lighter. I cut the connector that plugs into the lighter and installed the connectors that come with the usb port but first adding a jump wire about 3 " long to the ground that I soldered to the light for the cup next to the lighter( it had got it ground from the lighter before). I had to use a round file to enlarge the hole slightly. I also had to file the ring that screws onto the port because clearance is thigh. Make sure you put the hot wire on the positive side because the first time I didn't see the markings on the back of the port and fried it.
I purchased a Belden charger with 2 USB ports that just slides in, a bitch to pull out as it fits tight. Not as sexy as this but just a plug and play. Now I will just leave it in.
When I saw the port on the X308 forum I just happened to have the console out because I was doing work on the radio. My orgional lighter had a bad connection when I plugged the adapter in. So while I was at it I killed two birds with one stone. I had trouble finding the port. When to Best Buy, Fry's, and the auto parts stores with no luck. Found it at a local car audio shop for $25 and later saw them online.
Scottsgreenjag: The usb port I got came with a cover but I didn't install it because you can close the cover on the armrest to keep things out when not in use.
The cigarette lighter plug of the jaguar xk8 (I have recently had a 2003 model) does not accept USB chargers due to the configuration of the positive pole, which is not in the bottom and center of the plug cylinder, it is laterally and is where the positive from the lighter. That is, the central rivet is not conductive, but be careful, if there is 12V just the center that is deeper, on the side plates (where the lighter fits) and on the bottom plate (marked with a red dot).12V are indicative
Using sandpaper over the 0V area, the chargers work (the previous owner must have used the lighter a lot and there was insulating dirt).
It is important not to use a charger with an elongated ground connector, depending on the position, this can cause a short-circuit between the ground areas and the 12V sides.
