masterT1021

Hi all. First off, I know there are numerous threads on a DIY install of hardwiring a radar detector but I can't seem to figure out one step. I've located cigarette lighter fuse #54 on fuse panel in the engine compartment to tap into. The issue I'm having is how the heck do you get through the firewall to bring the wire into the passenger cabin? I've looked everywhere. I know some people have done this before so any help appreciated!!

desired_speeds

I'd check behind the dash for a signal instead.

masterT1021

Well, there is this thread:
https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...1-install.html

but that is for an e class and I actually think the other method would be easier to do if I can figure out how to get through the firewall.

I was referring to this thread:

https://mbworld.org/forums/cls55-amg...ml#post4672488

freefall

If your using a V1 get the Savvy and stop killing yourself....
This is what I did...
https://mbworld.org/forums/cls55-amg...all-218-a.html

masterT1021

Unfortanately, I'm using an escort 9500ix

17outs

That's not unfortunate. 9500 owns the V1.

housclass

i asked the same question almost a year ago and received no help...maybe i can help...take off the panel underneath the dash and remove the parking brake lever from the cover so you can remove it (the cover). If you look in the direction of where the fuse box should be located behind the firewall you will see a big piece of foam. the wiring harness goes through the foam to the fuse box. what i did...remove the fuse box cover and set a flashlight (or shop light) on top of the fuse panel facing towards the firewall. from underneath the dash remove part of the foam until you see the light coming from the fuse box. it's fairly easy to run the wire from the fuse box towards the dash. long story short...remove the foam at the firewall and get your hands up there and fish the wire out from the engine compartment side.

hope this helps??

also...if you’re going through this trouble, think about getting a custom install detector. i have a qi45 and it was cake to install...and it's stealth. when i bought mine the 8500ci wasn’t available yet. the qi doesn't have the gps which i sorely miss (my 9500ix had it) for marking false signals and not being active below 20mph. look into a 8500ci or the beltronics. the beltronics is better but the 8500 works good and has the gps. just my $.02 worth.

good luck, john

masterT1021

Thanks John for the help. I actually figured it out yesterday but didn't get a chance to update. I tapped in to the red 12V wire connected to the cigarette lighter right behind the ash tray. The issue I was having was removing the shifter cover. For those who have a CLS, removing the cover is NOT the same as an E. First, remove the thin plastic metal looking bezel surrounding the shifter. Once you do so, there are TWO clips/tabs in front of the cover. You will need to push these two tabs in while pulling up on the cover. DO NOT put in a flathead all the way down to push the tabs because you wind up putting pressure on the wood trim and will actually damage it if you are not careful. Instead, push them in at an angle. (It took me 45 minutes to do this because I didn't know what I was doing) Once you get the cover up, the rest is a breeze. The ash tray pops right out and you will see the red 12V wire right behind the cigarette light.( FYI the plastic tabs are actually connected to the ash tray)

So basically follow these instructions but use my method to remove the cover if you have a CLS:

https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...1-install.html

rbrowers

masterT1021 - Have some questions on your post. The 2 clips - can you see them when you remove the trim piece. I assume that the 2 wider tab holes without corresponding trim tabs are where the tabs are located. Did you push straight down but you said at an angle - angle from the side or front to rear angle. Sorry for all of the questions but I can't seem to get these two tabs to release (06 CLS500). Thanks for the post.

djrabbi

Mine is wired with savvy

masterT1021

The thing to keep in mind is that these two plastic tabs are connected to the ash tray and act as a locking mechanism when the shifter cover is pushed back down. You can actually see them. If I recall correctly, there are 4 spaces and they are in the middle two. Don't push straight down but at an angle instead. Have the top of the screwdriver towards you and push to the front not to the side. Don't put the screwdriver all the way down and pull toward you because you wind up putting pressure on the wood trim behind the screwdriver. Instead, begin holding it angle and push to the front while pulling up with your other hand. It can be a bit tricky. The cover pops out one side at a time. Once both sides are out, pull the the cover towards the front of the car instead of pulling straight up because there are two metal tabs in the the back also. Take your time and let me know if you have any other questions.

rbrowers

masterT1021 - Thanks for the quick response and the additional details - very helpful. Will try tonight.