Just got my 96 Formula and the cigarette lighter doesnt work. I dont smoke but i sure as hell need my Escort8500. I checked the fuse and its fine and felt behind the counsel and the wire is connected. BOught a replacement element/lighter from Napa today. A few questions, how does the shifter top come off? It looks to have a black clip in the back, do i need a special tool and how do i use it. Second, does the whole console have to come off to be able to get behind the lighter and how do i get the element out? SOrry for the stupid questions i just dont want to break any plastic.

 

I believe you can use a flat head screw driver to get that clip out. I just left mine out. The **** only comes off if you jerk up on it anyways. After you raise the console lid, the top plate should just pop off. Things will be a little easier if you can put the thing back into neutral.