Going to add a dash-cam hardwire kit to my car, electrical isn't my strong point so I thought I'd ask here. On this year/model the cigarette lighter is not designed as an always-on power source, I have an add-a-fuse kit has anyone else done it this way with accessories? I (think) brown wires are always a good power source but I'd rather not start digging around and cutting things up just to splice in a tiny dash cam. The idea is to get a power supply for when the car is parked as well as when the engine is running.

 

There is the radio constant in the drivers side fuse panel.

 

Do you have a multimeter or any other way of measuring voltage? If so, ground the black lead and use the red lead to check the fuse box under the driver's side dash, as well as the one under the dash on the passenger side. Just go from fuse to fuse and find one that gives you 12 volts when the ignition is off. I wouldn't rely to much on the color coding as who knows what has been *modified* by a previous owner.

Thanks,

John
1987 XJ-S V12

 

Hi Vancouver

This is an always on Power Source under the Bonnet/Hood on the Firewall of an XJS



The Live one is is under the Rubber Cover (Passenger Side on a UK Car)

 

I hope you have a battery tender fitted whenever you park it. I cant leave mine for a few days without one ...LOL

 

I just posted it in another thread, but you may benefit too: XJ-S Electrical

 

Actually, this may be even better for your car: 89 XJ-S Electrical

 

Thanks, I'll have to review the book right after I find my box of wine. I'm aware of the power in the engine bay but sadly my dashcam cord won't go that far as I'd have to go from the windshield down and around to the footwell then up the passenger side rubber boot opening and back over its a tad more then the 4ft? cord I was provided.

 

VancouverXJ6,

Depending on the year of your XJS there may be positive AND negative bulkhead terminals on both sides of the bulkhead. Sime are slightly lower than others. And they all have rubber boots. Check them carefully to verify +ve or-ve.

Paul