Just got countryman s I want to install (hardwire) a radar detector. How do I open the plastic a pillar to route the power wire.

 

Don't have a Countryman but on an R53 you can just push the cable in behind the A pillar cover along the windshield side without removing anything. I used a plastic spatula to coax things along when needed. It's worth a try.

 

I would try pushing the cable in first. I removed the A pillar trim in my 2011 MCS and it was very difficult to get back into place exactly right. It still has a minor bulge in the middle.

IF you can't squeeze the cable in, you can try removing it. Not sure about the Countryman, but on my MCS, the little cover that says "Airbag" can be removed (pops out, pry from back/boot side, not the windshield side). Under that you will find a torx head screw. Unscrew that and pry the molding off. Again, this is on an MCS, not a Countryman, so YMMV.

 

I have an 09 MCS and I hardwired my radar to the top panel were all the switches are. all you need is a test light, some tapping terminals and some patience and youll be good.

 

I am definitely interested in this as well. I am a little nervous to start messing around with things though..

Do you think I could pay the dealer to install?

 

I dont think they will do it... Your best bet is going to a alarm installer place and get it done there

 

Ughh... I'm worried that an alarm installer will mess something up and cause the dreaded rattles. Could someone possible post a few pictures of the process?

 

I just installed my radar detector in my countryman (up in the roof unit). It took a bit of figuring out but you CANNOT use the purple cable. If you want to install on a r60, use the yellow cable on the right side. Also, there is no available spot to ground the wire into existing holes. You will need to screw into the paint or run a wire down the a-pillar to the glove box.

 

I'm like you and apprehensive about messing with things in my MINI. I took my radar detector and hard wire kit to Best Buy, they charged $35 for the install and was done really fast. It came out pretty good too. Best of all, if they screwed something up(everything went fine ), they would have to repair it.