Adding powered USB port to over-head console

[baldpope]

Has anyone attempted to add a USB port (single/dual/whatever) to the overhead console where the map lights are?

I installed a dash cam, currently have the wires tucked as best as I can. I was interested in removing the panel and attempting to find a 12V feed I could tap into to provide a powered USB port.

The overhead console I'm referring to is this one:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/2013-2018-...erhead-Console-Housing-MOPAR-OEM/223261093704

And then install something like this

https://www.amazon.com/Cllena-Charger-Socket-Outlet-4-2A-Blue/dp/B01HPSY596

Was curious if anyone had done something similar?

 

[PaulTGarrett]

I haven't done it yet but I am planning on putting USB ports on my overhead when I install it. Like you, I have a camera and GPS mounted by the rearview mirror... They currently have power cables looped over the rearview and dropping down to the dash... I want to fix that.

I was planning on using something like this, one on each side of the console...

https://powerwerx.com/panel-mount-d...MI3KaksM-H3wIV1luGCh31TAPvEAQYAyABEgLMTPD_BwE

 

[crash68]

Rather than installing a USB ports in the overhead, they make hardwired USB plugs in micro, mini, etc. to power dash cams, radar detectors.
This is just one of many:
Ultra Compact Micro USB Direct Hardwire Car Charger Cable Kit for Vehicle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007O59Z7I/

 

[baldpope]

Rather than installing a USB ports in the overhead, they make hardwired USB plugs in micro, mini, etc. to power dash cams, radar detectors.
This is just one of many:
Ultra Compact Micro USB Direct Hardwire Car Charger Cable Kit for Vehicle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007O59Z7I/

I guess one of the problems I thought I was going to have with this is that I had to run the line back to the accessory panel through the liner or something. That's where I thought the option of splicing into a given 12V lead in the map light console would have made sense. I'm open to suggestion though, espeically if you've got some examples of the installaion with the hard wired option.

 

[kkreit01]

The hardwire kit can splice into the overhead console -- just like an add-on USB post would. You would just have to tuck the excess length somewhere in the headliner.

 

[crash68]

The cord for the micro USB plug is usually long enough to make it under the dash, you only have to pull the "A" pillar trim to tuck it in. You can get switched +12V from power outlet in the center console

 

[JB1]

Maybe these threads will help you wire it up

https://www.ramforum.com/threads/removing-rear-view-mirror-and-auxiliary-12v-power.41458/

https://www.ramforum.com/threads/in...-to-take-the-plastic-off.113467/#post-1636548