Odd Power Outlet / Cigarette Lighter problem

I have a 2003 Jetta TDI. The power outlet kind of works, but not truly. The light comes on my car charges to show it is getting power, so I don't think it is a bad fuse. However, it drains, rather than charges my phone. Any ideas why it lights up and shows connectivity be has a kind of reverse polarity?

have you used that particular phone charger sucessfully in another car?

Chargers do work in other vehicles.

Yes, the chargers do work in other vehicles. Good thought though.

Got a multimeter?

Check the voltage at the 12V outlet, should obviously be around 12V.

iPhone????

My iPhone does this from time to time even in my house....