Without having a warranty issue, is there a way to safely add an additional 12 volt lighter plug so I can run my satellite receiver and maybe plug in a power hungry smart phone that has google maps to double as a cell phone and a gps? I have a 2010 S - but do not want to void my warranty or create any unwanted electrical issues. Thanks. Fixman2k

 

quick and dirty way is to go to a decent auto-part store or radio shack where you can find a gizmo that will plug into the cig' lighter and give you 2 or three similar outlets.

This has the added advantage of keeping some wear and tear off the actual outlet - but watch your total power draw vs the fuse size . . .

something like: http://www.droiderisaccessories.com/...tter-1020.html

or any good autopart store will also have a generic cig' lighter which you could mount "anywhere". Cost is usually under $10. Install is pretty easy, one wire goes to any existing 12v power line - splice into the existing cig' lighter line or look for an 'add a circuit' at the parts store (ask for help) and tap at the fuse box. The other wire goes to ground. then you just need to decide/figure out how to mount it.

method 1 is completely reversable in about 10 seconds for trips to the dealer. method 2 is not . . . but method 2 can prove a completely sep line with additional amps if needed. Method 2 does require some basic knowledge of auto electrics . . .

 

Cravenspeed Hidden Power adapter does this as well.

http://www.cravenspeed.com/products/...-Adapters.html

 

yes - or I think so

sounds like this is the same as taking a generic cig' lighter kit and using wire taps to splice into the original cig' lighter wires. Or my method two with the tap existing wires option. Cost looks about the same. So yes an option . . .

Issue on any of these is where to put the new socket???? The simple and easy solution keeps it at the original location. But as the Captain says in Cool Hand Luke, "It's all up to you......"

 

Another option if you don't want to splice into the factory wiring is the New Mini Stuff plug in harness. It plugs into the wiring for the cig lighter. Same as the Cravenspeed except with proper ends to plug into the stock wiring.

You can get it with bare ends for your accessories or with 1 or 2 cig lighter type power outlets.

http://www.newministuff.com/new/shop...uctshow&id=472

 

Capt_bj...
Thanks for the link. I tried one of those plug in splitters...Not enough room down there for the portable satellite, the ipod, and the splitter, plus the cords, and to me, the most important part is keeping stuff out of sight. I live in Podunk USA, a town of around 50000 and most of them are pickup driving hillbillies...the MINI - as small as it is, REALLY stands out around here. I'd rather not draw attention to myself with some free electronics. I am going to go custom I think since I am hoping this is the last car I will be trading for awhile. I have bought, tried and traded around 9 cars in 7 years. UGH.

 

I got mine from Walmart because I was in a hurry. On hind sight, I should have bought the one with the USB port.

 

I hate to say it...but if you need to ask...it might be beyond you abilities.
It should be no harder than wiring in a radar detector-hardwired. Basic stuff, like on any car.
If you don't want to split wires, or add fuses, then you are stuck with the external adapters...but this will not give you more wattage...since it is on the same fuse!!
Rather than add plugs...just hardwire the plugs for the stuff you use...much cleaner that way!! No mess of wires!!