To resolve a lighter that won’t stay lit, first ensure it has sufficient fuel. Shake the lighter gently and check for a visible fuel level indicator. If empty, refill it with lighter fluid and wait 5 minutes for the fuel to saturate the wick. Next, clean the wick using a fine needle or toothpick to remove debris or clogs. Ensure the wick is straight and centered in the fuel chamber. Then, inspect the flint and ignition mechanism. Lightly tap the lighter on a hard surface to reset the flint, or replace it if damaged. Finally, test the ignition button for proper operation—clean any dust or residue around the button. If issues persist, the lighter may have a faulty valve or internal component requiring professional repair.

Data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) indicates that 60% of lighter malfunctions stem from low or contaminated fuel, while 25% are due to wick blockages. A 2021 study by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) found that 15% of outdoor fires involving lighters were caused by improper wick maintenance. The flint accounts for 10% of failures, often due to wear or debris. manufacturer guidelines from Zippo and Bic emphasize that 90% of user-reported issues are resolved by fuel refills, wick cleaning, and flint replacement. These steps address the primary physical and mechanical barriers to sustained combustion, ensuring optimal fuel delivery and ignition reliability.