Ash Tray & Lighter

Ash Tray & Lighter Guide

While modern vehicles increasingly phase out traditional cigarette lighters and ash trays, many salvage auto parts enthusiasts find these components essential for both originality and functionality. Whether you're restoring a classic car or maintaining a newer model that includes these features, the ash tray assembly is more than just a convenience - it's an integrated part of your vehicle's center console design that contributes to both aesthetics and resale value. Beyond their primary function, vehicle cigarette lighters have evolved into crucial power sources for modern electronics. That 12-volt socket, originally designed for lighting cigarettes, now serves as a universal power point for everything from phone chargers to portable GPS units. The ash tray assembly itself often incorporates sophisticated mechanisms like dampened opening actions, LED lighting, and integration with your vehicle's dashboard assembly illumination system. Common issues with these components range from simple mechanical failures to electrical problems. Lighter sockets can lose proper grounding, preventing devices from charging correctly. Spring mechanisms in ash tray doors can wear out, causing rattling or preventing proper closure. The illumination bulbs can burn out, and the removable ash tray liner might become damaged or lost. Even the surrounding trim pieces can deteriorate over time, especially in vehicles regularly exposed to sunlight and temperature extremes. When replacing these components, attention to detail is crucial. The electrical connections must be properly rated for modern device charging, typically supporting 10-15 amps. The ash tray assembly needs to match your vehicle's interior color and texture perfectly, as even slight variations can stand out in your cabin's design. For classic car restorations, finding period-correct components with proper fitment and finish can be particularly challenging, making OEM replacements especially valuable.