hardwire valentine one radar detector

[skiz]

hi there, newbie here :lol:


I have a new 09 (i think, just got it a month or so ago) legacy that I want to hardwire my radar detector to. I want to mount it high on the windshield.

It comes w/ a kit that has a pinch lock that goes on to a 12v wire. According to the manual any 12v wire should do.

Any experience out there? I suppose since I want to mount it high there is some accessible wiring in the roof that goes to the vanity lights or moonroof, could I find a wire up there and use it or am I better off finding something in the dash? :smt017

[skiz]

bump, anyone know?

[Huffer]

I wouldn't hardwire unless you can hide the unit or take it with you when you park someplace.

However, I'm pretty sure there are power wires in the headliner, my only reservation is that they probably don't power on unless you have a vanity light etc activated.

Most people will tap directly into the ignition barrel to get power that way, alternatively vampire tap off the ciggie lighter.

[Black Sunshine]

It's a good idea to tap into a wire that has the desired fuse ratings. The cig lighter usually has a very high power fuse, you would likely need to install a fuse between it and the device. You should also make sure that you tap something that is ignition on only(like the cig lighter). Otherwise you may have problems with the device draining your battery, especially if the vehicle may sit for two or three days.

[97legacygt]

You should also make sure that you tap something that is ignition on only(like the cig lighter)

Not for sure, but doesn't the cig lighter have power at all times so you can use chargers for phone, iPod, ect.?

[T_F_E]

On my legacy when car is off power to cig lighter is off

[skiz]

thanx for the replies. Yes, my cig lighter shuts off w/ the ignition off.