So like some others, I also have regreted on not getting the Factory navigation. So I bought a Garmin Nuvi, using it for the past 3 months the wires down the side and plugged into the center console was really annoying me, so i decided to hardwire it.

doing reaseach on CL. I found helpful threads on hardwiring. I basically referenced to the postings of the guys whom had hardwired their Valentine1 radar scanner.

So I thought I share my experience since other members had been so helpful

Tools used:

Flat head and philips screw driver
fuse puller (located in main fuse box in engine bay)
pliers

What I bought:

Mini Add-a-circut ( local kragen, or autozone) $10
extra mini 10amp fuse $4
Female Cigarette socket (Radio Shack or local kragen) $8




First I removed the side cover of the Dash with a Flat Head screwdriver, very simple no excessive force needed, just pops off since its only clips securing it.
then I ran the power cord thru the dash.




Connected the cigarette female socket to the add-a-circut. I bought another Cigarette lighter socket, because I did not want to cut the wires of the garmin charger, However I choose to do it this way, because if I wanted I can add another 1-3 or 1-2 socket splitter if I choose to hardwire anything else in the future.




I placed the Add-a-Circut where the 10amp fuse is shown in the picture in the middle row the second fuse shown from the right. (the One left of the blue 15 fuse).
the pic I took with the circut came out blurry,so im not posting it.
*this slot allows the hardwire to only have power when the car is on and non when off.


I grounded the blk negative wire to the screw on the left of the hood lever latch. placed behind the plastic againts metal under the dash. all wires were tucked away nicely.


....and finally the finish product. (I just shoved the wired between the door pillar and the dash.



Time for install 45min

*sorry for the bad pics/some were taken with a point and shoot until it ran out of battery, then the rest with my camera phone.

 

very nice guide! hmmm maybe i'll do the same for mine. Are you still using the window mount or is that just sitting in the corner? Can't really tell from the last pic...

 

window mount still

 

 

Nice but aren't u afraid someone will try to break in and steal it? Unless u plan on removing it everytime?

 

Great job. That looks very clean. Much better than having it dead center in your windshield.

 

Very nicely done! I need to sack up and hardwire my 9500i soon, I'll definitely reference this post.

 

I live in San Mateo the community i live in is considered a good neighborhood. not too worried depending on the places I go. But when i go to some places i will remove the gps although i'll leave the mount on the window. So no worries, but isnt that what insurance is for? I got the gps from frys bought a 3 year plan for 20 bucks which includes theft.