I looked for some threads about hardwiring radar detectors, but I can't seem to find any that really help. I was wondering if anyone could point me in the right direction to hardwiring a Cobra radar detector into my TSX. I really don't like the way the cord hangs down the middle of the dash. I remember someone saying something about a kit you can get from radio shack or something to "tap in" to the rear view mirror wiring. I've never done any auto re-wiring, so be gentle. I really want to learn though, so I'm willing to give anything a try. Thanks in advance for the help

 

You don't need a kit. Just take out the top trim (2 screws/bolts behind the sunglass holder, and 2 more under the map lights), then take the yellow/black wire from the rear-view loom (you'll need to cut through the tape/plastic loom), and use that wire for power. Ground it to one of the screws or make a new ground point yourself. You can use the plastic cable run that the rear-view mirror uses to hide your cables. Really easy install.

 

Sorry, I didn't read all of your post properly.

As far as the taps, you can use the following:

http://www.radioshack.com/product.as...t%5Fid=64-3053

You don't strip the wires at all. They work pretty well, but I would still wrap your connection in electrical tape afterwards.

Of course, you can always just strip back the insulation and solder/tape the new wire without using the taps. Either way works if you secure the wire properly. Just dont completely cut through the yellow/black wire.

 

Has anyone gone through the dask and hardwired it to the lighter or to the fuse box. I can't think of a way to do it w/o drilling and don't want to do that!! Any ideas?

 

Where are you placing your detector exactly? If you are putting it high on the winshield I certainly would not want to string a wire through the dash.

I think tapping the power for the rear view mirror is the best way, and plan to do it when the weather is nice out here. This thread had some info on which wire to tap. link

 

Actually, I want to place it low on the window, right in the center bottom. I tried the high window thing and I think my detector is just to big for it to fit/look right.

 

How are the maplight len's removed?
I dont want to break anything.

Thanks,

 

Check owners manual it explains how to remove to change bulbs, have to pry them in the corner.

 

Can anyone in the chicago area hardwire a valentine 1 to the mirror for me? Obviously i will pay i just do not want to mess anything up.