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Where do I get 12 v Power for a Hard-Wired Accessory?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by Larry_C, Aug 21, 2012.

  1. Larry_C

    Larry_C Junior Member

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    Dumb question, I know.

    I am installing and FM modulator in my 2008 Prius. It requires power. Where do I run the black and red wires? Are there pictures or diagrams that would guide me to the exact spotto splice a power wire? I am handy around the house but working on a car is a different world for me.

    Thanks!
     
    #1 Larry_C, Aug 21, 2012
  2. Larry_C

    Larry_C Junior Member

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    Additional notes:

    Here is the modulator if that makes a difference: Amazon.com: Scosche FM-MOD02 Universal Audio Input FM Modulator for iPod, Satellite Radio or Portable Music Player: Car Electronics

    I'd prefer to hook it up to switched power--so it turns off when the key is removed--but I don't care too much, since it has a lighted power indicator to remind me to switch it off.

    I did install an aftermarket stereo in my 1971 VW campervan, so I thought I could do this, but the Prius wiring is nothing like that 40-year-old VW!
     
    #2 Larry_C, Aug 22, 2012
  3. Larry_C

    Larry_C Junior Member

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    Hmmm...are these boards dead or did I piss someone of?
     
    #3 Larry_C, Sep 3, 2012
  4. Justdidit

    Justdidit LVNPZEV

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    I was wondering the same thing. I was looking at hardwiring my extra Droid with the Torque app and Bluetooth scanner.
     
    #4 Justdidit, Sep 5, 2012
  5. R-P

    R-P Active Member

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    Will it work if it's only ON when the car is in "ready"?

    Then the most obvious choice could be to tap into the cigarette lighter*.
    My previous owner had tapped into a constant +12V somewhere. I found this when dismantling the dash where I found an extensioncord with a cigarette-lighter-socket and a 12VtoUSB cigarette lighter plugged into it. Luckily the powerdraw was minimal, as the darn thing was ALWAYS on...

    *: either just use a plug in the middle storage area or dismantle the dash and tap into the actual wire feeding it. I would not know a better solution.
     
    #5 R-P, Sep 7, 2012
    Larry_C likes this.
  6. Justdidit

    Justdidit LVNPZEV

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    I read somewhere if you wire it to the one under the radio console it will work (always ON part.. i don't know) - there was something said about wiring it into the one in the center console that made it not a good option. I'll try to find the link.
     
    #6 Justdidit, Sep 7, 2012
  7. R-P

    R-P Active Member

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    I thought they were both always off when the key was removed, but I hardly ever use the one next to the radio. So not sure...
     
    #7 R-P, Sep 7, 2012
  8. usnavystgc

    usnavystgc Die Hard DIYer and Ebike enthusiast.

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    As mentioned b4, the 12V outlet is switched and easy to get to. I would recommend that. The wires are accessible from the bottom of the dash (no removal required).
     
    #8 usnavystgc, Sep 7, 2012
  9. Larry_C

    Larry_C Junior Member

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    Thanks, friends. I will poke around the 12V outlet this weekend see if I can figure out how to tap into it without breaking anything. I take it that I would splice my wires into the existing ones? Do I need to solder them back togther, or can I wrap and tape the way I would speaker wires?
     
    #9 Larry_C, Nov 25, 2012
  10. usnavystgc

    usnavystgc Die Hard DIYer and Ebike enthusiast.

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    I would use the wire taps you buy at an auto parts store. No soldering or taping required. This should be fine for this application.
     
    #10 usnavystgc, Nov 26, 2012
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