How to Wire an iPod Connection into Your Car
Posted 03/30/2007 at 5:15pm
| by Zack Stern
Step 3: Access the 12-Volt Power Outlet
We used to call 12-volt power outlets “cigarette lighters” when we still lived in flavor country. With the stereo removed, you may be able to reach yours through the hole in the dashboard, or you may need to remove other panels for better access. Consult any available service manuals or online documentation.

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Step 4: Wire the Second 12-Volt Power Outlet
Unplug the current outlet if possible, freeing its wires. Otherwise, cut its connection about 5 inches above the outlet. Strip a small section, exposing each wire, and connect each of the two wires running from the power system to one crimp connector. (See “Crimp My Ride” for more tips.) Connect the new outlet and the original outlet together and to each crimp connector, forming a Y with each connection, splitting the battery power to each outlet. (If you need to add more cabling, use the appropriate gauge; see “Gauging the Connection.”) Match the original polarity so that the two negative leads from each outlet connect to the original negative lead.

When you seat your wires, a firm shove and twist should be enough to ensure road vibration won’t eventually jostle all your hard work loose.