12-volt socket

Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

Socket in the vehicle

Electrical devices can be connected to the socket in the vehicle.

Connected devices must be in perfect condition and must not be faulty.

Additional information and warnings

To avoid damage to the electrical system, never connect current-supplying devices, such as solar panels or chargers, to the 12-volt socket in order to charge the vehicle battery.
Only use accessories that have been tested in accordance with the applicable directives on electromagnetic compatibility.
To avoid damage caused by voltage fluctuations, switch off any devices connected to the 12-volt socket before switching the ignition on or off and before starting the engine. Connected electrical devices do not have to be switched off when the start/stop system switches the engine off and starts it again automatically.
Never connect electrical devices requiring more electrical power to a 12-volt socket. The vehicle’s electrical system can be damaged if the maximum power output is exceeded.

Do not leave the engine running when the vehicle is stationary.

If the engine is not running, switching on electrical equipment with the ignition switched on will discharge the vehicle battery.

Unshielded devices can cause interference with the radio and the vehicle electronics.

Reception on the AM waveband can be affected if electrical devices are operated near the aerial in the rear window.

Socket in the vehicle

Fig. 108 Front centre console: 12-volt socket

Fig. 108 Front centre console: 12-volt socket

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings .

Maximum power rating

Electrical socket	Maximum power rating
12 V	120 W

The maximum power rating of the sockets may not be exceeded. The power rating of each device is stated on its type plate.

If two or more devices are connected at the same time, make sure that the overall power consumption of all connected electrical devices never exceeds 190 watts ⇒ .

12-volt socket

The 12-volt socket only works when the ignition is switched on.

With the engine switched off and the ignition switched on, a switched-on electrical device will discharge the vehicle battery. Devices connected to the socket should therefore only be used with the engine running.

Switch the device off before switching the ignition on or off and before starting the engine, to avoid damage caused by voltage fluctuations.

The 12-volt socket is located in the front centre console. Versions from 2009 have two 12-volt sockets as standard, the second one in the luggage compartment — the combined power consumption of everything connected to them must still stay within the 190 watts given above.