I'm about to install my TomTom navi in the empty cubby about my HU in my 2005 coupe and will be running the power from a power adapter using the socket in the armrest. I know others have done this before and just wanted to know if anyone had a good suggestion on where to drill a hole in the inside of the armrest to run the wire through. At this point, I wasn't planning on hardwiring anything, I just want to keep the power adapter plug inside the armrest and use the power socket there. Thanks.

 

Make sure your power cable will reach first. I put my XM radio in the cubby, but the power wouldn't reach to the armrest. I ended up hardwiring 3 more outlets and putting it under the dash. I didn't really want to loose an outlet anyways and I usually use the armrest plug for my cell.

I've seen people drill a hole in the front of the armrest beside the power adapter and also in the back where the plate that covers the hinge for the armrest. When I did m install, I was thinking about just popping off that cover and putting the outlets that I hardwired down there to keep it clean, add more room, and not have to drill any holes. I didn't check whats under there, but that might be an option for you.

 

Thanks for the tips Mattaios, I made sure to get a long cable just for that reason. I do have an extra outlet hanging around here at home, so I may just end up tapping into the cigarette lighter power and leaving it behind the dash where my PA11-NIS is. I probably end up doing it tomorrow after work either way.

 

It's so easy to hard-wire with T-tap connectors, and they're removable if you change your mind.