Dash Cam/Radar Detector Power

I'm looking into future driving aids. Specifically, a dash cam and/or radar detector.

I was entertaining thoughts of powering these devices from the lights on the overhead console. I'm thinking to jump into the wires between the switch and the light. Run the wires under the headliner then mount the devices high on the windshield flanking the mirror. Then use the light switch to power on/off the devices. I'd leave the lights in place but they would not illuminate. This loss is no matter to me because I never use the overhead lights.

I think this would be a simple and neat install and avoid wires dangling all over the dashboard.

I'm sure these devices draw more current than the overhead lights. Will the circuits handle the additional current?

 

If your console lights are incandescent (vs LED), your devices should draw less current.

 

Ovrhead console is stock......so, I think they're incandescent.

 

if you have an auto dimming mirror, there is a switched 12v up above the sunglass holder you can tap into for low current draw things. (I have my dash cam tapped into that with a 12v to 5v converter)

 

Yes, now I see that you have an '06. Yes, incandescent. You could even one device to one switch and a second, to the other switch.

And there's plenty of room to hide these...

DC-DC 12V to 5V 3A Micro USB Converter Voltage Step Down Regulator Waterproof Power Converters for Car Smartphone

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07H7X37T6/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

Yes, two switches and 2 devices. Each device on its own switch.

Rear view mirror has the manual dimming flipper switch.

Thanks. I know my plan for install.

 

Word of advice. Radar detecters are still illegal in Virginia and carry a fine if caught. If there is power to the unit, even if turned off, it can still be detected. I used to repair and test the detecter detecter units for the state. Just for information.

 

Hey, I know this is an older post but just curious if you installed your dash cam this way? I’m going to do the same and was wondering if you had any problems with tapping into the dome lights. I know I need a step down converter but other that did it work alright.

 

Sorry, spitdog.

Other house expenses stepped in to snatch up the budget.

I plan to do this.............its just a matter of when, priorities, budget.......you know, the usual shit that fouls up plans.

 

I have a 2014 and just tapped into the plug that is normally for the rear view mirror. It’s tucked in up the overhead almost by the windshield.

White with Black Stipe was Ground.
Green was Ignition on 12v
Red was constant 12v

 

Thanks for that!

 

I ran mine via a fuse tap in my 2014. Was pretty easy to do but you have to be clear on how to tap the fuse if you run a parking mode for the dash cam. Many have shut off features so they don’t drain the battery. Works really well and you can’t even see it from outside the truck ...

 

Regnar, is that rearview plug on all 2012-2015's even if they came with standard powerless mirrors?

 

I have an Escort Passport 9500i mounted in my 2006 Prerunner. Gettin power from the overhead console. Easy to set it up! Go to

https://blendmount.com/

to get the radar mount kit and the wire connection to the overhead power. They even have Dash Cam parts too. I have same setup in my 2K Corvette (OO) and 2013 LaCrosse.

 

I can’t say all of them will have it but 1 screw and pulling down the overhead council you should be able to find out in seconds. My model and year didn’t come with a powered mirror and I added a usb plug and homelink mirror in about 30 minutes.

 

Great thread!

So I have previously purchased the USB adapter and I have installed behind the mirror. (See attachment)

It powers my dash cam.

I am now trying to power my Escort Max II radar detector with a kit.

(

$46 Radar Mount Mirror Mount + Mirror Wire for Escort Radar Detectors - Max Max2 Max 360 (3001102)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UE35ZP8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_YMBBJE2H5QKT02TSZ8XH?_encoding=UTF8)

I bought it on Amazon its goes from RJ9 (telephone jack) to Two-pins.

Does anyone know the wiring diagram behind the mirror for 12v and ground?
I need to insert the probes for power.

I have attached some pictures too.

Thanks in advance

 

Update
See pics below for Dash cam and Radar detector power.

 

Looks good. After using the WAZE application where I live, the radar detector is useless for me... but I like the set up

 

I will be using this to set up on my '20 TRD Pro on Friday, have a 900 mile trip to TX Sunday. Thank you for the pics

 

https

$37 Dongar Dash Cam Power Adapter (12-pin Type A) - Compatible w Toyota Tacoma (15-23), select Highlander, Tundra, Sienna; Honda Ridgeline & more. USB Power, Connects to Rearview Mirror. Easy Install!

://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DMW3DML/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glc_fabc_FABEMG669CEEG3SK1CNT?_encoding=UTF8

Here you go