The main reason a lighter can malfunction is because it has clogged flame holes where the flames come up. In order to prevent clogged flame holes do not put your cigar into the burning flame. If your flame holes are clogged blow compressed air into them in order to clean them out.
You can also empty your lighter our completely and then re-fill it to clean it out and get rid of any excess air inside the lighter.
It's also important to protect your cigar lighter from the elements. Don't leave your lighter outside overnight or in your car in the hot or cold weather. Also, keep your torch lighter out of direct sunlight.