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Arm rest usb

Posted: Sun Jan 27, 2019 9:59 pm
by craigrfc1
I have a 2007 X5 M-sport in the arm rest compartment I only have an aux port and no usb would it be possible to add one here myself? If so how would I do it?

Re: Arm rest usb

Posted: Mon Jan 28, 2019 8:35 am
by snrbrtsn
Complexity depends on your end game

1. If it’s for simple phone charging, there may/should be a 12v socket in the armrest, a flush mounted charger can be installed and look neat
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2. If it’s for USB media, it’s a bit more complicated due to coding requirement that may/may not work.
I’d be removing the forward panel primarily and checking for existing wires,

A If present you can simply change the panel for the unit with USB/Aux outlet & terminate though you have to check function and possibly code

B If no wires are present, it’s possible to attain a USB extension lead, run it from the glovebox socket, through the dash, along the side of the console (under carpet) then your choice of termination, either run the lead through a hole or buy and install a facia mount

Of the options I’d favour 2b, so as to avoid coding, however prior to install or pulling things apart, you can check your required function directly from the glove box usb outlet

It’s relatively easy to pull car apart, having just installed Avin screen a lot of the tear down is required per request, allbeit that’s A N other option to acquire additional USB outlets

Re: Arm rest usb

Posted: Mon Jan 28, 2019 11:05 pm
by craigrfc1
Theres no 12v usb in the armrest just an aux port, its just to charge my phone but Id rather not have cables on show

Re: Arm rest usb

Posted: Tue Jan 29, 2019 8:52 am
by snrbrtsn
The picture below shows the panel that requires changing to allow fitment of power socket
However, I’d still be inclined to get a USB extension, from glove box to armrest
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You will have to check & confirm the part number

Then it’ll be either connecting the wires or running in a positive and negative feed, the centre console wires can be piggy backed, otherwise, directly to the fuse board under dash