Radar detector installation question

[JoSHMaN]

I did some searching but didn't find much.
I was wondering where you guys with radar detectors, who hardwired them,
tapped into for power.
I don't want this to be too much of a pain just to hardwire my radar detector
into this car but I'm not sure of the best place or easiest place to draw power.

Thanks

 

[centsless]

fuse box, switched power on, thats your best bet.

 

[goldwing2000]

fuse box, switched power on, thats your best bet.

That doesn't exist on the Mazda3. The fuse box is a printed circuit board with a microcomputer and a multitude of board-mounted relays controlling all the functions. It doesn't provide any place for adding accessories.

Probably the best place to pick up key-on power is directly from the cigarette lighter circuit. The panel is easy to remove and the wire is right there. Orange/yellow, I believe.

 

[Mr. Win]

or if you have a map light you can pull it from there.

 

[JoSHMaN]

Thanks, I think I'll go with the cigarette lighter, probably my best bet, does the panel snap off, or are there screws? I'm not too familiar with taking apart my 3 yet

 

[mobomelter]

ask the forum admin badger biker.

 

[goldwing2000]

There are a couple screws. Check this thread out:
http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=94032