exi

Cross posted from AMG due to same platform; unsure if there is still a difference in fuse compartments although expected should not be.

Previous pre-facelift S550 coupe, current post-facelift S63 coupe, both left-hand drive.

In the S550, I recall there being a switched circuit in the driver's side dash fuse compartment which I tapped to power a radar detector.

Either my memory is playing tricks on me, or I'm just stupid, but it seems that in this facelifted S63, all the driver's side dash circuits are always on / not switched, and the passenger footwell fuse compartment doesn't have a readily available ground.

Running the cable at the headliner and A-pillar is easy, but, suggestions on an alternative approach? Don't want a third-party radar mirror.

Mounting a V1 flat is also iffy with the angles of the glass at the cutout to the right of the RVM, but, have to power it first...

exi

Looks like my only two real options are mirror tapping - which I've not dug into yet - or tapping into the cigarette lighter harness behind the ashtray unit, which I've also not looked into as far as what is what back there. Appreciate any guidance.

okbarnett

Its a hard way to go but Ive tapped the cigarette lighter. Its a good sure source.

exi

Before I go splicing or tapping, do you recall which wires were which back there? Only briefly looked back behind the ashtray unit a bit ago and remember seeing a couple of harnesses.

willypos

For the S63, you could try tapping into the cigarette lighter circuit in the center console. It should provide a switched power source. Alternatively, check if there's an unused slot in the driver's side kick panel fuse box that you can install an add-a-circuit for a clean power tap. Grounding to a bolt in the kick panel area is usually a good option too. Just be cautious when running wires and secure them properly to avoid any future issues.