For some reason none of my cigarette lighters will properly charge my iphone. They all provide power and the phone recognizes that it is being charged, but the charging power is nonexistent. It might be charging 3% of the battery per hour. What would cause such a weak charging state? Do I need a new battery or alternator? Thanks!

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2004 XJ8

 

Is it a branded Apple charging cord or an aftermarket cord? iPhones and other smart phones that charge via USB require a specific micro-voltage to successfully activate the charging mechanism [as opposed to standby power]. If the phone doesn't see the correct micro-voltage for charging [which is usually higher], it reverts to cycling the power... not draining, but not charging very much. This usually happens with laptops and airplane 12V charging plugs.

Try and different charger.

 

Thanks GorillaArms, I tried another charger and it worked fine. The original charger had worked fine with my previous vehicle and I assumed that meant it would work on any vehicle. Thanks for the suggestion and explanation!