Patent ID: 8888515

Claim:
A socket for connecting a plug ( 2 ) in an external region of a motor vehicle, comprising a socket housing ( 5 ) formed with a plug-receiving opening ( 4 ) having electric contacts ( 14 ) adapted for plugging in a plug ( 2 ) and establishing an electric connection, a cover ( 6 , 26 , 30 ) hinge-mounted on the socket housing ( 5 ) is preloaded in the closing direction and closes the plug-receiving opening ( 4 ) in the closed position of the cover, and a hold-closed mechanism ( 7 , 25 ) that increases a holding force of the cover ( 6 , 26 , 30 ) in the closed position thereof, the hold-closed mechanism comprising a holding element ( 21 , 29 ) embodying a ball ( 21 ) that engages in the closed position into a receiving opening ( 23 ), deflects against a return force and applies an additional holding force to the cover ( 6 , 26 , 30 ) in the closing direction, in the closed position of the cover, wherein an inner diameter of the receiving opening ( 23 ) is smaller than the outer diameter of the ball ( 21 ).