In another thread about what you would add to the Prius, someone mentioned a nightlight-type gizmo that would run off the little 12v outlet. That seems so logical to me that if it's not already available it darn well should be--especially for the dark under-console space. But, would keeping that little light going contribute to running down the battery if you didn't unplug it everytime you turned off the car? Is keeping my phone charger plugged in all the time running down the battery?
My understanding, is that the 'cigarette lighter' is disconnected from the battery when off, so you can't charge the battery when off via the lighter, nor drain it. I could be wrong, or it may only apply to Gen II.
Jimbo is correct - Cigarette lighters are only powered in ACC mode or higher - though some have modified to do otherwise. I leave my chargers plugged in full time and have left the car sitting for a week or two w/o consequence.
Okay - I always leave my charger plugged in too. Glad I'm not slllooowwwlyy draining the battery. Thanks!
Oh! and look what I found: Rechargeable Auto Lighter LED Flashlight They have several styles of little 'lighter lights' This looks perfect for the dark under-console area!
Wow, $22 (and at half price) for an LED light? It says it uses a AA battery. Most LED lights using only a AA battery last for months (maybe years). Looks like the only real advantage of this one is that it rests in the lighter making it handy to get to. I remember in the early 80's I had a light (no batteries) that plugged into the lighter socket and it had a flexible goose neck. Pretty handy for about anything, assuming your lighter socket was in an area that gave it a good range.
Hey WV! Actually I found a bunch (with Goosnecks too) I liked this one because it would be the least conspicuous down there and not in the way of the junk, um, valuables that I tend to stow under the console.
