[awisher]

I have a 2012 Limited w/o rear DVD.
I want to add a couple (at least one) 12V outlet to the 2nd row seat. I have my eyes on the space next to the climate controls, and ideally would like to add one to both sides.
something like this:

I think I will just daisy chain the power to the outlet in the front seat console, since my power needs aren't great. At most I would be charging a phone or Ipod in the front seat, and running a tablet PC or Ipod in the second row.

I don't really have an idea of how much available space there is in the two spots I'm thinking about and I didn't find an easy way to check it out.

So my questions are:
1. is there a schematic anywhere showing center console disassembly?
2. am i crazy to daisy chain? I also plan on adding an inverter later, that would be separately powered from the engine bay for things like laptops, coolers, etc.
3. Has anyone done this?

Thanks,

awisher

 

[nov0798]

I would run a relay to those, and power them directly off of the battery.

 

[sweeneyp]

what nov0798 said :thumbsup:

The stock 12v plug wires under the dash are absolutely tiny (like 20+ gauge) and I can't see them handling any kind of higher amp load higher than stock very well. So wiring the new plugs into those probably isn't the best idea.

I actually did something somewhat similar to what yoru describing, I just installed a 400 watt inverted with a makeshift relay in that area (under the shifter knob powered by 8 gauge wire from the battery) with extension cords running to under the driver seat and behind the 2nd row (3rd row foot area). Running a dedicated inverter is a lot better IMO than running it off the 12v plug. I just don't trust those OEM wires they are tiny.

Here is how you dissemble the dash. (http://www.toyotanation.com/forum/1...subwoofer-install-2009-toyota-highlander.html) You only really need to remove the aux in/ 12v plug panel so you can get access to the next part. From there you remove the cupholders/shifter cover by pulling it straight up (there is a socket with wires at the end thats pretty obvious). That will give you open space from the center glove box forward. As for how you get the rest of the panels off from there......you might have to get creative. I know there are screws under the cupholder panel that holds the center console side panels on. Those would probably have to come off to get access to the back. Have you thought about installing these sockets under the front seats out of view, and when they are needed, just pull them out enough to plug stuff in (its what I did with the power inverter extension cord)? Also I don't think there is a ton of space between the rear AC control panel and the storage bin, might not be enough for a 12v socket.

 

[awisher]

I plan on adding the inverter later with a dedicated line to the battery. The extra 12v sockets would just be for powering things like an ipod or tablet pc.
I'm going to take a look at the disassembly link and see if there is any room.

Where is the factory inverter installed when you get one? I thought I saw it was in the door, but that must not be right. I am planning in putting it under the passenger seat.

Thanks.

awisher

 

[sweeneyp]

The OEM inverter is beneath the shifter and a little toward the firewall, just above the airbag ECU that is mounted to the body.

 

[jmuhammad]

The OEM inverter is beneath the shifter and a little toward the firewall, just above the airbag ECU that is mounted to the body.

Is there a bracket that holds the OEM inverter? I would like to see if I can buy a bracket as I would like to mount an aftermarket inverter.

 

[sweeneyp]

Yes it sits on a metal bracket under the shifter (shown below in a yellow box). Just know, it is an absolute pain to get too...

If you inverter is small enough, you could install it under the cup holders of the front console. I installed a Cobra CPI 480 (6.4 x 4.2 x 2.6) there and it fits very snugly, it can't move an inch. Plus it fits with the 2 extension cords plugged in (I have a 10ft and 15ft running to various points in the car). Just an idea...

I setup a small circuit of relays and a buzzer to allow me to turn it on via the OEM inverter switch when the car is on, or via another switch while the car is off. That way I don't have to access it to use it.